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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.


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  • kodamatourThings to see in Kathmandu
    review by kodamatour posted more then 30 days ago
    We are pleased to organize tours in the historical, cultural, pilgrimage and Natural sites throughout the Kingdom. Nepal boasts a rich cultural, traditional, ethnic, biological and geological diversity. It is well worth exploring during your visit to Nepal. If you only have a short time for Nepal...
  • nepalibbKathmandu adventures
    review by nepalibb posted more then 30 days ago
    Update Mai the 12 2015 Travelgrove Team Laxmi Dhakal, an official of the Nepalese Home Ministry confirmed that 42 people were killed (the most in Kathmandu and Dolakha) and at least 1,117 injured in the magnitude 7.3 earthquake. Kathmandu international airport was closed for half an hour. ...
  • nepalibbAdventures 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...
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Read our members' travel tips about Kathmandu


  • HimalayanjoyEverest Region Trekking ( www.himalayanjoy.com)
    travel tip by Himalayanjoy posted more then 30 days ago
    Welcome for himalayan trekking in nepal and specially in Everest region trekking. please feel free to contact us for trekking in Everest region....  http://www.himalayanjoy.com/nepal/everest-trekking.html
  • nepalibbBiking trip to Nepal
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    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...
  • nepalibbTrivhuvan International airport
    travel tip by nepalibb posted more then 30 days ago
    CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR FESTIVAL TREK 2009/2010 Nepal Adventure Point organizing the Christmas & New Year festival's familiarization trip to Everest region every year. It will be a 14 days long trip, where the participants will be made...
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Kathmandu City Ratings

  • Rating20%
    City Rank395
     
  • History & Culture: not rated
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  • Outdoors Activities: rated for 20%
  • Food: not rated
  • Sightseeing: not rated
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