Kathmandu Travel Guide, Nepal
Kathmandu is the capital of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Kathmandu is situated in the Kathmandu valley in the very heart of the Himalaya Mountains. This largest Nepalese-city has long been the ultimate Shan-gri-la for the hippies who came here in search of enlightenment; but even if you are not really seeking enlightenment, you will find Kathmandu’s rich history and culture worth exploring. And then, you also have the lures of the many things-to-do in Kathmandu – go trekking, mountain climbing, visit the attractions or simply hang-out at a restaurant or Internet café … options for you are many.
Statistics
Area: 50.67 sq km
Population: 671,846
Language: Nepali, Nepal Bhasa or Newari
Monetary unit: Nepalese Rupee
Architectural Heritage
Religion dominates the architecture of Kathmandu and Kathmandu has many stunning temples and stupas. In fact, the city itself derives its name from a structure called Kaasthamandap meaning ‘wooden temple’; standing in the Durbar Square. The 1596-built two-storey pagoda is believed to have been built using the timber of a single tree and has no iron nails or supports. Among the other temples are the world-famous shrines of Pashupatinath and the Kala Bhairav temples. The Swayambhunath stupa is the most famous of the Buddhist stupas in Kathmandu. Other religious architectural wonders of Kathmandu include the Hanuman Dhoka Gate as well as the sculptures of Budhanilkantha and Lord Narasimha. Besides, there are some royal palaces and royal ruins in Kathmandu. (Most of Kathmandu’s palaces and shrines were built under the Malla-rule between the 12th and 18th centuries and are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites).
Economy and Infrastructure
Tourism is Nepal’s most important industry and Kathmandu is the nation’s main tourist hub. During the 1970s, Freak Street was where the hippies would head for whenever they came to Nepal. Although Freak Street remains popular among tourists till today, the neighborhood of Thamel has become Kathmandu’s chief vacation address.
Being the capital city, Kathmandu has good infrastructure. The Tribhuvan International Airport is just 25 km away from the city center. There are quality hotels, restaurants and shopping arcades in the city. Many banks, financial institutions, business houses and organizations have their headquarters in Kathmandu.
People and Culture
The people of Kathmandu are quite religious and follow either Hinduism or Buddhism; however, a close study of the culture and religious traditions will reveal that the two religions have adapted elements not only from each other but also from pre-existing animist traditions. Actually, the region has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age and the continuous influx of people following varied cultures and religious traditions has resulted in the evolvement of a rich culture.
Things about Kathmandu you may be interested in
Read our members' reviews about Kathmandu
- Nepal Mustang Tiji Festival Trip 2011
review by nepalibb posted more then 30 days ago
Nepal Adventure Point offering the Tiji festival trip in Mustang every year. The Tiji Festival in Mustang's ancient walled capital city of Lo Manthang will be the highlight. A thousand men, women and children participate in the annual elaborate re-enactment of the Tiji myth, telling of a... - Trip to Kathmandu
review by nepalibb posted more then 30 days ago
Namaste & Greeting from Nepal Nepal Adventure Point organizing the Christmas & New Year festival's familiarization trip in Nepal every year. This special package tour offering the whole discovery of Nepal totally you will spend your holiday at least western and northern part you... - Adventures on the Himalayas
review by nepalibb posted more then 30 days ago
Greeting from Nepal Himalayas! My Name is B.B. Bhandari. Currently I am operating trekking and tours in Nepal. I am also looking for tour operator to Nepal therefore if you have any interest to evolve in this tourism business and would like to be my local agent there then feel free to share the...
Read our members' travel tips about Kathmandu
- Hotel in Nepal ,hotel holyhimalaya,Hotel Nepal
travel tip by hotel posted more then 30 days ago
After 16 years of successfully leading tours in the Himalayas, Holy Himalaya has begun a new venture in tourism. We now have our own hotel! It operated, with a very good reputation, as the Dynasty hotel for 10 years. Holy Himalaya Tours... - Nepal Trip Operator
travel tip by Trip-Advisor posted more then 30 days ago
Namaste & Greeting from the Nepal Himalayan! Nepal Adventure Point Pvt. Ltd. is registered to Government of Nepal, the company is permitted to launch any kind of trekking, mountaineering, tours and others adventure activities as... - Biking trip to Nepal
travel tip by nepalibb posted more then 30 days ago
Glimpse of Mountain biking tour in Nepal Nepal is the world's number one adventure playground for mountain bikers. Through mountain biking trip is one of the most amazing activities for travelers in Nepal which is possibility ranges...
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