Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal not only hides treasures inside but you can find interesting monasteries, important places of worship or impressive stupas.
Read on to know about top places to visit in Kathmandu
1. Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath is an amazing Buddhist temple that rises above the city on a hilltop. It is also known by the name of “temple of the monkeys” for the amount of them that live here. Swayambhunath not only lodges this gigantic white stupa but in its enclosure, you can contemplate more temples. From here you can have exceptional views of Kathmandu, especially to admire its sunset.
2. Patan
It is known for its Durbar square, much like Kathmandu but smaller. It has also been damaged by the earthquake. Even so, it’s worth coming up here. Do not stop the visit to Durbar Square. Also, you can walk northeast to the Ghats of Sankhamul. See the Northern Ashok Stupa (Northern Stupa) – A white stupa from where you can observe through Buddha’s eyes. Patan has four ancient “Ashok” stupas that mark its borders: stupa of the north, stupa of the south (Lagan), stupa of the west and stupa of the east. The Sankhamul Ghats are not very large and they are quite dirty because of a cremation site.
3. Pashupatinath
Pashupatinath is the site that you should not miss from the surroundings of Kathmandu. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple and it is forbidden for non-Hindus. The most interesting is to access the area of the Ghats where the Bagmati River becomes sacred to perform cremations. If you cross to the other side, you will have better views.
4. Boudhanath
Boudhanath is the largest stupa in Asia, which is why it deserves a visit. The central tower has been demolished but it is now fully up. It is impressive to see hundreds of pilgrims turn around the stupa turning the prayer rollers. The best views can be obtained from the top of the Shrine of Hariti, inside the enclosure. In case anyone is interested, there is the possibility to stay in the Guest House of the Sakya Tharig Monastery. It is a Guesthouse that sustains the monastery and where you can live with the monks of the place.
5. Kopan Monastery
Located on the north hill of Boudhanath you will find this Buddhist monastery. Kopan Monastery is a place where many people go to study psychology and Buddhist philosophy.
6. Bhaktapur
Last destination in the vicinity of Kathmandu but no less important. Bhaktapur is the third medieval city-state of the Kathmandu Valley. It has three squares full of temples: Durbar square, Taumandhi Tole and Tachupal Tole. To enter Bhaktapur you will have to pay an “entrance”. The money goes to maintain the temples, many of them today fell by the earthquake. Apart from visiting the innumerable temples, you also have to dedicate time to the life of your interior. Artisans weaving and carving, potters showing their pieces, locals gathered to wash or socialize.
So don’t waste your time and Plan your trip to Nepal to explore these beautiful destinations and create a new memory.
