Swoyambhunath Stupa

Swoyambhunath is located nearly some 3-kilometer west from the downtown of Kathmandu valley. It is one of the popular Budhhist shrines. It is said to be 2000 years old. It is also known among visitors as a ‘monkey temple’. The main structure of the stupa is made up of brick and clay which supports a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. There are all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha on the four sides of spire. Being situated seventy meter above the level of valley, the hill of Swoyambhunath is a mosaic of small Stupa and pagoda temples. Aside, in front of the temple, one of the famous goddess with the shrine of Ajima called ‘Harati mata’. This temple of goddess believes to be famous in the way of tantric. Both the stupa of Lord Buddha and temple of a goddess are surrounded by other temples and Tibetan monasteries. Being located in the top level of valley, this place is famous for visitors for sightseeing.

Pasupatinath Temple

Pasupatinath temple is one of the famous Hindu temples in the world. The temple is situated mere 5-kilometer east from the downtown of the Kathmandu, on the banks of sacred Bagmati River. Being one of the most important Hindu temples, this is a center of annual pilgrimage. From the time immemorial, the Pasupatinath area contains numerous temples, stupas, monasteries, images and inscriptions. The area is not only a pilgrimage site for the Hindus but also an important cultural treasury for the whole world. However, only Hindus are permitted to enter from the main gate.

 

Bouddhantha Stupa

Bouddhantha Stupa is said to be one of the oldest and the biggest Buddhist monuments ever built in Nepal. Bouddhanath is an imposing structure standing some 36 meters. The Stupa stands on the massive three level Mandala style platform surrounded by colorful private family houses. The basic feature of this great stupa is very much like that of Swoyambhunath stupa except its finial displaying. It is much bigger than Swayambhunath Stupa. This stupa is said to have been built in 5th century AD.


 

Changu Narayan temple

The temple of Changu Narayan is situated on the hillock of Dolagiri on the northern part of Bhaktapur. It is one of the oldest temples in Nepal situated at an altitude of 5000 ft. This temple has its distinct historical and architectural significance. The most authentic and oldest ever inscription is located in the precinct of Changu Narayan. The oldest inscription dated 464 AD is a credited to have been set up by Lichchshavi King Manadeva. The erection of Garuda Piller by Manadeva is expression of his devotion and reverence to Chang Narayan as learnt from the inscription, points that the temple of Changu Narayan was built sometime before 464 AD.
 

Patan Durbar square

Patan Durbar Square is located in the lovely little plateau across the Bagmati. It is situated 7-km southeast of Kathmandu. It is considered to be the oldest of city in Kathmandu valley. This city was founded in 3rd century AD and known to be the city of fine arts, having hundreds of fascinating Hindu and Buddhist monuments scattered in and around. The most important monument no doubt is Patan Durbar Square, recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The square has been described as one of the most picturesque collection of buildings that have been set up so small place by the piety of oriental man. Most of the monuments in this square date back to the medieval Malla period 15th to 17th century, known to be the golden period of Nepalese art and architecture. The important things to be seen in this area include the golden gate and the golden window of the old palace, the beautiful piece of traditional metal crafts, the famed Krishna temple with 21 golden pinnacles, the Royal bath of Sundari chowk, a perfect piece of the classic work in stone. Royal Taleju temple, Viswa Nath temple and Char Narayan temple are the finest examples of the unique craftsmanship in wood; the temple of Bhimsen with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside plus many other shrines and sculptures scattered in and around the square.
 

Bhaktapur Durbar square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is situated at an altitude of 1,401 meter above sea level. Bhaktapur is very unique and old town in the valley. This city is divided into 24 traditional localities covering an area of 5 square kilometers. Founded by King Anand Dev in 889 AD Bhakatapur is said to have been built in the shape of conch shell a sacred symbol of Lord Vishnu. The word Bhaktapur means the city of devotees. Before the unification of Nepal, Bhaktapur was an independent principality ruled by the Malla Kings, who were very much devoted to religion, culture and art. During the period many magnificent temples and mansions were built. This period is remembered as golden period in the Nepalese art and remains a unique example.
 

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is located in the heart of Kathmandu. It is popularly known as Hanuman Dhoka Palace. It is an ancient seat of the Nepalese royalty. Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex consists of a huge royal square imposing a tremendous variety of temples dedicated to different Hindu gods and goddess. Most of the buildings we see in and around dates from 15th to 18th century. The entire Palace complex here is named after a monkey god called Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red right next to the main entrance (the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square. The Durbar Square has been enlisted as a UNESCO world heritage site and is worth visiting.