Kathmandu, Nepal

Reading Time: 7 minutes

Kathmandu, Nepal

Region: Bagmati Pradesh


Geographic Coordinates: 27.717200, 85.324000
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 30.0°C (50°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 975453
Language: Nepali

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal, Located in the Kathmandu Valley. The city is surrounded by four major hills that offer stunning panoramic views. Its rich cultural heritage and ancient architecture make it a unique destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience. Kathmandu is known for its numerous temples and shrines that reflect Nepal’s rich religious history, Including Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, And Durbar Square. These holy sites are also important cultural landmarks. The narrow streets lined with colorful shops selling traditional handicrafts add to Kathmandu’s charm.

Visitors can explore local markets such as Asan Tole or Indra Chowk to experience Nepali street food like momos or chatamari. There are also many rooftop restaurants offering panoramic views while enjoying traditional Nepali cuisine. Kathmandu is home to several museums that showcase Nepal’s history including The National Museum, Patan Museum, Taragaon Museum, And Kaiser Library. For adventure seekers looking for outdoor activities near Kathmandu, There are several options such as hiking in Shivapuri National Park and Nagarjun Forest Reserve or taking a day trip to nearby Bhaktapur or Patan to explore ancient cities’ palaces and temples.

Kathmandu has something for everyone from religious sites to cultural landmarks; bustling markets to serene parks making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.



Important Landmarks

  1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
  2. Boudhanath Stupa
  3. Pashupatinath Temple
  4. Durbar Square
  5. Thamel District
  6. Garden of Dreams
  7. Narayanhiti Palace Museum
  8. Patan Durbar Square
  9. Hanuman Dhoka Palace
  10. Kopan Monastery

Primary Industries

  1. Tourism: Kathmandu is a popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
  2. Handicrafts: The city is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including pottery, woodcarving, metalwork, and weaving.
  3. Trading: Kathmandu has a thriving trading community with numerous markets and bazaars selling everything from spices to textiles.
  4. Education: The city has several universities and colleges that attract students from across Nepal and beyond.
  5. Technology: Kathmandu is home to several tech startups that leverage the city’s growing IT infrastructure to build innovative products and services.
  6. Banking & Finance: The financial sector in Kathmandu is expanding rapidly with many local banks offering a range of financial services to businesses and individuals alike.
  7. Real Estate & Construction: The demand for housing in Kathmandu has led to a boom in real estate development with many new apartment buildings being constructed every year.
  8. Agriculture & Farming: Despite being an urban center, agriculture remains an important industry in the surrounding areas of the Kathmandu valley producing crops like rice, wheat, maize etc., along with dairy farming which supplies milk products throughout the country.

Noteable History

  1. According to legend, King Gunakama Dev founded Kathmandu in 723 AD.
  2. The Malla dynasty ruled Kathmandu from the 12th to the 18th century, overseeing a period of cultural and artistic development.
  3. Buddhism arrived in Nepal from India in the 7th century, greatly influencing Nepalese culture and religion.
  4. Swayambhunath Stupa, an iconic Buddhist temple complex, was constructed over two millennia ago and is one of Kathmandu’s most famous landmarks.
  5. King Prithvi Narayan Shah unified Nepal into a single kingdom under his rule in the mid-18th century and made Kathmandu its capital.
  6. In April 2015, a devastating earthquake struck Nepal killing thousands and causing widespread damage throughout Kathmandu.
  7. Many notable mountaineers have attempted to climb Mount Everest from Nepal’s side including Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay who were first to reach its summit in 1953.
  8. Pashupatinath Temple is an important Hindu pilgrimage site worldwide due to its significance as one among twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva across India & South Asia.
  9. Lumbini located near Kapilvastu district around ~250 km away from Kathmandu is known as birthplace for Gautam Buddha who later became founder of Buddhism Religion.
  10. Narayanhiti Palace Museum was once served as Royal Palace for Kings & Queens till Monarchy ended in Nepal, now converted into Museum showcasing history of Royal Family & Nepal’s Monarchy system.

Museums and Things To See

  1. Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a popular pilgrimage site and tourist attraction in Kathmandu.
  2. Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is considered one of the most important temples in Nepal.
  3. Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in Nepal and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
  4. Kathmandu Durbar Square was once home to Nepalese royalty and features stunning architecture and historical significance.
  5. Patan Durbar Square is another former royal palace complex with intricate architecture and cultural importance.
  6. Bhaktapur Durbar Square showcases traditional Newari architecture and culture with temples, palaces, and courtyards.
  7. The National Museum of Nepal displays artifacts from Nepalese history, including art, weapons, coins, and more.
  8. The Garden of Dreams offers a peaceful escape from city life with beautiful gardens, fountains, pavilions, and more.
  9. Narayanhiti Palace Museum was once home to Nepalese royalty before being converted into a museum showcasing their lifestyle and history.
  10. Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum features exhibits on Nepalese art history as well as ancient artifacts dating back to medieval times.
  11. For shopping or sampling local cuisine head to Indra Chowk Market or Asan Tole Market which are famous for their vibrant atmosphere.
  12. Tribhuvan University Central Library boasts an extensive collection of books on various subjects including literature & science.
  13. The National Art Gallery located in Naxal displays contemporary artwork by local artists.
  14. Bagmati River Ghats offer visitors insight into Hindu funeral rites that take place along its banks.
  15. Thamel area offers nightlife entertainment options like bars/clubs along with shopping for souvenirs.

Note: Due to COVID-19 pandemic, some places may have restricted access or be closed. It is advisable to check before visiting and follow all safety protocols advised by the government authorities while traveling or visiting public places during this time period.



Sports Teams

  1. Three Star Club: It is one of the oldest football clubs in Nepal established in 2033 BS (1976 AD). The club has won numerous domestic titles including the National League six times, the National Football Championship eight times, and many more.
  2. Manang Marshyangdi Club: It is another popular football club based in Kathmandu that was founded in 1982 AD. The team has won several domestic titles including the National League four times and other tournaments.
  3. Tribhuvan Army Club: This club was established by Nepalese Army personnel and has a long history of success in various sports including football, cricket, volleyball, basketball, taekwondo among others.
  4. Himalayan Sherpa Club: It is a well-known football team from Kathmandu that was founded back in 1990 AD. The team has won several domestic titles including the National League twice.
  5. Nepal Police Club: This club represents Nepal Police personnel and participates mainly in football tournaments at both national and international levels.
  6. Apart from these teams mentioned above there are other clubs like Machhindra Football Club (MFC), Sankata Boys Sports Club (SBSC), Jawalakhel Youth Club (JYC) who have been contributing to Nepalese Football for many years now with their own unique history as well as achievements over time!


Cultural Events

  1. Dashain Festival is the most significant and grand festival in Nepal, celebrated during September or October for 15 days. The festival involves the worship of goddess Durga.
  2. Tihar Festival, also known as the festival of lights, is a five-day celebration that takes place in November. It includes decorating homes with colorful lights and worshipping different animals.
  3. Holi Festival is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated in March or April, where people throw colored powder and water at each other to celebrate good’s victory over evil.
  4. Bisket Jatra is a New Year’s celebration that takes place every April in Bhaktapur, Kathmandu Valley. The festival involves pulling chariots through the streets and throwing oranges at each other.
  5. Indra Jatra is an eight-day-long festival held every September to honor Lord Indra, god of rain and king of heaven.
  6. Buddha Jayanti celebrates Buddha’s birth anniversary on the full moon day of May or June with prayer meetings held across Kathmandu Valley.
  7. Gai Jatra (Cow Festival) is a unique Nepali tradition where cows are paraded around town to commemorate lost loved ones during August or September every year.
  8. Maha Shivaratri is an annual one-night-long Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva on his marriage anniversary with Goddess Parvati which falls on February/March according to Gregorian calendar.

Cuisine

  1. Momos are a type of dumpling that can be filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy sauce. Some popular momo restaurants in Kathmandu include Bota Momo, Yangling Tibetan Restaurant, and Thakali Kitchen.
  2. Dal bhat is a traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and curry (tarkari). It is often accompanied by pickles and other side dishes. Some popular dal bhat restaurants in Kathmandu include Newa Lahana, Krishnarpan Restaurant at Dwarika’s Hotel, and Dhokaima Cafe.
  3. Chatamari is a thin rice pancake topped with minced meat or vegetables, eggs, and spices. Some popular chatamari restaurants in Kathmandu include Roadhouse Cafe and The Cafe With No Name.
  4. Samosas are triangular-shaped pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat. Some popular samosa shops in Kathmandu include Jai Mata Di Samosa Center and Bishal Bazaar Samosa Corner.
  5. Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup made with vegetables or meat broth, often served with momos on the side for dipping. Some popular thukpa restaurants in Kathmandu include Nanglo Bakery Cafe and Himalayan Java Coffee House.
  6. Juju dhau is a creamy yogurt dessert that originated from the city of Bhaktapur near Kathmandu but can now be found throughout the city as well!
  7. Choyla is a spicy dish made from marinated grilled buffalo meat mixed with spices like ginger garlic paste chili powder cumin powder coriander powder salt etc served cold as an appetizer
  8. Kwati is a nine bean soup dish cooked during special occasions like festivals
  9. Sel Roti is sweet fried bread ring that is usually eaten during Tihar festival

Parks and Recreation

  1. Garden of Dreams is a stunning neo-classical garden that provides a serene sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  2. Kathmandu Durbar Square, an acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases ancient temples, palaces and courtyards.
  3. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) is a revered Buddhist site that boasts breathtaking views of the city.
  4. Boudhanath Stupa, one of Nepal’s largest stupas, serves as a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.
  5. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park offers hiking trails, bird watching opportunities and chances to spot wildlife.
  6. Chitwan National Park lies outside Kathmandu and attracts visitors with its jungle safaris and elephant rides.
  7. Phulchoki Hill provides panoramic views of the Himalayas; it’s also popular for hiking and picnicking activities.
  8. Rani Pokhari Pond is an artificial pond surrounded by gardens built in the 17th century by King Pratap Malla.
  9. Godavari Botanical Garden features over 500 plant species including medicinal herbs, orchids and ferns.
  10. Pashupatinath Temple Complex stands as one of Nepal’s most important Hindu pilgrimage sites; it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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