Kathmandu

Kathmandu (elevation: 1,400m) serves as Nepal's political, cultural, and economic hub. This ancient city of temples and palaces blends medieval heritage with modern urban energy in a valley surrounded by Himalayan foothills.

• Population: ~1.5 million (metro area: ~3 million)
• Language: Nepali (Newari and English widely spoken)
• Religion: 80% Hindu, 10% Buddhist (with deep syncretism)
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 7 in Kathmandu Valley

Must-Visit Areas

1. Historic Core

• Kathmandu Durbar Square:
  Living museum of Malla dynasty palaces
  Kumari Ghar (Temple of the Living Goddess)
  Kal Bhairav & Taleju Temple
• Asan Tole:
  Kathmandu's oldest market square
  Sensory overload of spices, textiles and daily rituals

2. Spiritual Centers

• Pashupatinath Temple:
  Most sacred Hindu site in Nepal
  Open-air cremations along Bagmati River
• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple):
  2,500-year-old Buddhist stupa
  Panoramic city views
• Boudhanath:
  Largest spherical stupa in Nepal
  Tibetan Buddhist hub with monastery circles

3. Modern Kathmandu

• Thamel:
  Tourist epicenter with shops, bars and guesthouses
  Best for trekking gear and souvenirs
• Garden of Dreams:
  Neo-classical oasis of tranquility
  Perfect escape from urban chaos

Cultural Highlights

• Festivals:
  Indra Jatra (Sept): Chariot procession of Kumari
  Dashain (Sept/Oct): Nepal's biggest Hindu festival
• Handicrafts:
  Thangka paintings in Boudha
  Metalwork in Patan
  Woodcarvings in Bhaktapur
• Cuisine:
  Newari feast (bara, yomari, choila)
  Momo (dumpling) capital of Nepal

Urban Challenges

• Infrastructure:
  Frequent power cuts (carry a flashlight)
  Traffic congestion (walking often faster than driving)
• Air Quality:
  Winter months can bring heavy pollution
  Masks recommended December-February

Day Trips from Kathmandu

• Nearby UNESCO Sites:
  Patan (5km) - Marvelous Durbar Square
  Bhaktapur (15km) - Best preserved medieval city
  Changu Narayan (22km) - Oldest temple in valley
• Nature Escapes:
  Nagarkot (32km) - Himalayan sunrise views
  Shivapuri (11km) - Prime hiking destination

Essential Tips for Visitors

• Dress modestly when visiting temples
• Carry small bills - Many places don't accept large notes
• Learn basic Nepali:
  "Namaste" (Hello)
  "Dhanyabad" (Thank you)
• Avoid tap water - Stick to bottled or filtered water

Did You Know?

Kathmandu Valley was once a giant lake according to geological and mythological accounts. The Buddhist stupa at Swayambhunath is said to mark where the lotus of primordial wisdom bloomed from these waters.