8 Things You Must Do In Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal is frequently visited by tourists from all around the world. But why? What is so special about Kathmandu? Let us explore the top eight activities that you can do in Kathmandu that can thrill and rejuvenate you at the same time.

# Visit Durbar Square

This is the most happening place in Kathmandu, which has also been marked as a heritage site by UNESCO. Durbar Square was the residence of the royal family until the 19th century. Hanuman Dhoka is the palace complex here depicting exquisite architecture with a unique Hanuman sculpture guarding the palace gate. The 34 courtyards of the palace are dotted with various other mythological figures like that of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, Tantric version of Lord Krishna.

Durbar Square also has several ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples which date back to the 12th century. You can also visit the Durbar Square of the neighbouring cities of Pokhara and Bhaktapur to deep dive into the rich Nepalese culture.

# Walk Through the Old Lanes

A walk from Durbar Square to Thamel is a travel back in time when Nepal was at its glorious top. This 20 minutes walk is a hide and seek game between you and the hidden statues at every corner of the narrow lanes. Makhan Tole, Siddhi Das Marg and the market square of Indra Chowk is a spider web of five roads which represent a normal Kathmandu street scene with local’s bargaining and buying their daily stuff.

# Shopping

Do you love the colors? Kathmandu has some of the most colourful shops you have ever seen in your life. These shops sell brightly colored apparels, finely designed costume jewellery, awesome home décor like paper lanterns, Thangka paintings, wooden boxes, bronze statues, local musical instruments and lots of books. Shopping is a unique experience here as you need to bargain hard. Tired of shopping and bargaining? Rest and relax at the bars of Thamel; teeming with local music under faded lights, creating a mystery.

# Pray at Swayambhunath

Swayambhunath is considered to be the most famous temple of Nepal. You need to climb 365 stone steps to reach the temple and on the way you are greeted by numerous monkeys. You can seek help one of the resident monks of the temple to understand and participate in the chanting and temple rituals.

# Get Blessed At Pashupatinath

Considered as the most sacred temple of Nepal, Pashupatinath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is one of the best places to find sadhus painted in vermilion. Visit the temple during sunset to witness the Aarti that evokes devotion within the soul.

# Circumambulate Boudhanath

Boudhanath is the largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal. This is an important centre of Tibetan Buddhism and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The important feature of this Stupa is that at sunset the Tibetan community comes out to circumambulate the Stupa, spinning the prayer wheels and the air is filled with the soulful chanting, ’Om Mani Pudme Hum.’

# Enjoy the Real Nepalese Life

Visit the villages of the Kathmandu Valley to experience their rustic lifestyle and bask in the serenity of the unspoilt atmosphere. The warm hospitality of the villagers of Bungamati and Khokana makes your journey immemorial. Watch and buy the wooden carvings and sculptures made by the villagers.

# Satisfy Your Taste with Nepalese Foods

Set at the backdrop of the Great Himalayan Range, Nepalese delicacies promise to keep you warm and healthy. Relish Dal Bhaat or steaming hot Pulao along with Gorkhali lamb curry as lunch or enjoy chitchat with friends relishing piping hot Momos and Dumplings stuffed with meat and vegetables.