10 Attractions of Kathmandu

Capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, lies surrounded by mountains. Tourism is one of the major industries of Nepal and Thamel is the traveller’s destination of Kathmandu. Not in order, here are some of the things to see in Kathmandu: 

Buddhistic prayer flags and wheels around the Bodnath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal (Photo Courtesy:WikiMedia)

1. Bodnath Stupa - While there is a 200 entry fee to see this stupa, for centuries it has been one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations for regions surrounding the Himalayas. The stupa dates back to the 5th century A.D.

Kopan monastery, Kathmandu (Photo Courtesy:subarin.dyndns.tv)

2. Kopan Monastery - Now famous as a place where Buddhism and meditation are taught, particularly to foreign nationals, it is a great place to see. Hundreds of monks and nuns live in this monastery.

Monkey Temple Swayambhunath (Photo Courtesy: mickandvivi)

3. Swayambhunath temple -  Atop a hill in Kathmandu valley, this is also known as the Monkey Temple as Holy monkeys are said to reside in parts of the temple. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists and is also revered by Hindus.Durbar Square - The place where kings were crowned and ruled the nation from, Durbar square with it’s beautiful architecture, is a must visit.

 Kasthamandap, Kathmandy (Photo Courtesy: kailashtournepal)

4.  Kasthamandap - Kasthamandap literally translates to “Wood covered shelter”. Kathmandu owes its name to this temple. It hosts a statue of Gorakhnath, and was built in the early 16th century.

Relaxing at the Garden of Dreams in Thamel area of Kathmandu, Nepal (Photo Courtesy: holeinthedonut)

Garden of Dreams - Kathmandu, Nepal (Photo Courtesy: flickriver)

5. Garden of Dreams - This is known to be one of the more serene spots for a good walk with lovely views of the garden and the pond. The architectural style of the garden is similar to those of formal European style gardens.

6. The Zen Experience - For those who like to relax at the spa, or simply wish your aches and pains away after days of trekking or sightseeing, this is a must visit.

Kathmandu Durbar Square (Photo Courtesy: vacationhomes)

7. Durbar Square - The place where kings were crowned and ruled the nation from, Durbar square with it’s beautiful architecture, is a must visit.

Usual Sight at Vegetable market in Asan Tole, Kathmandu (Photo Courtesy: lonelyplanet)

8. Asan Tole - One of the most popular marketplaces in the city, it’s a must visit to feel the essence of Kathmandu. It’s usually teeming with people from dawn until dusk.

A  Sadhu Looking at Pashupatinath Temple (Photo Courtesy:Pixoto)

9. Pashupatinath temple - Also called “The temple of living beings”, this is a Shiva temple located on the banks of Bagmati river. It is one of UNESCO’s world heritage sites.

10. Freak Street - The “hippie” street of Kathmandu, its actual name is Jhhonchen Tole and it still hosts the incense sticks, colourful clothes and hair of any hippie town. 

These are just ten of the things to see and do in Kathmandu among many more. Undoubtedly, it is a place to see in your lifetime, not only for all the things I’ve just described, but also for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. So wait no longer; hop on a flight to Kathmandu and play explorer!