THE MELTING POT OF KATHMANDU
The majority of foreign tourists that go to Nepal generally make their first stop in Kathmandu, which is the country's largest, busiest, and most vibrant metropolis.
Swayamhunath stupa
Photo by Raimond Klavins
Swaymbhunath is northwest of Kathmandu Valley, it is a place of tranquilly and devotion. Since the 1970s, visitors who found the name difficult to pronounce have referred to it as "Monkey Temple." Visitors may get a birds-eye perspective of the city from Swayambhu, which dominates much of the valley. With Hindu temples and goddesses interwoven into this Buddhist landmark, the stupa has stood as a symbol of faith and harmony for generations. This is where the splendour of the Kathmandu Valley is supposed to have begun.
The two primary holidays observed in Swayambhunath are Losar and Buddha Jayanti. On these occasions, a sizable crowd of visitors walk around the temple while the monks use saffron-coloured paint to draw a lotus design on the stupa. Another significant occasion in Swayambhunath is the one-month-long Gunla festival that marks the end of the rainy season.
The Buddha statue on the western side, the enormous gold-plated Vajra "thunderbolt" in the east, the statue of the sleeping Buddha, the Dewa Dharma monastery, famous for a bronze icon of the Buddha and traditional Tibetan paintings, and the temple dedicated to Harati, the goddess of children, are just a few of the notable monuments in Swayambhunath.
Pashupatinath Temple
Photo by Fares Nimri
Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal's most renowned Hindu temples, is situated on both sides of the Bagmati River, just east of Kathmandu.
The most significant temple in which the god Shiva is worshipped is Pashupatinath. A large number of elderly Hindus visit this temple each year.
The Pashupatinath temple, which is located on the Bagmati river, is not only one of the largest Hindu temple complexes in Nepal, but it also regularly conducts open cremations. a river revered by Buddhists and Hindus alike. This area is so much more than just that one thing. You may explore the temple grounds, interact with Sadhus (holy men), and discover more about Nepali Hindu culture.
This area is so much more than just that one thing. You may explore the temple grounds, interact with Sadhus (holy men), and discover more about Nepali Hindu culture.
Hike Shivapuri National Park
Photo by Chandan Chauras
If you can't embark on a longer or higher trip while visiting Nepal, the Shivapuri day walk is ideal for you. Shivapuri, the second-highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley at a height of 2732 metres, is situated in the northern part of the capital city and offers spectacular views of the Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, and Gaurishankar Himal ranges to the east. Shivapuri is accessible via a pleasant jungle walk through a large forest. It is more gratifying to explore cultural villages that are close to the source of the holy Bagmati River, a haven for bird lovers. There are many alternatives for hiking in the Shivapuri region, whether you want to go for a short, three-hour trip or an all-day excursion.
You can start trekking as soon as you get permission to enter the national park. More than 500 animal species are preserved in this government-protected region. The rhododendron woodland is where the trek ascends. Your hike is made wonderful by the sound of singing birds and the gaze of monkeys.
Shopping in kathmandu and what to buy
Photo by Rohan Reddy
Everyone like shopping, right? Markets play a crucial role in our lives, from buying everyday necessities to spending on frivolous products. With a huge selection of goods to fill your shopping bags, Kathmandu is a sanctuary for consumers. While certain items, such as woollen clothing and other items, are available everywhere in the city, it's always a good idea to be aware of the typical Nepali goods that are hard to come by elsewhere in the globe and are thus essential purchases on any trip to Nepal.
Thangkas
Unique paintings known as thangkas can be seen in Nepal. They are often fashioned on cotton or silk textiles and portray Buddhist and Hindu deities, sceneries, and mandalas. These vibrant paintings are a must-buy since they rightfully deserve to decorate the walls of your house.
Beads and Jewellery
While conventional gold and silver jewellery may be found all over the world, only Nepal produces jewellery composed of beads, bones, and precious and semi-precious Himalayan gemstones. The majority of ladies would go wild looking at the numerous brightly coloured, massive neckpieces, bracelets, anklets, and earrings shown at various shops! Purchase as many as you like for yourself and give some to family members or friends, either pre-made or manufactured to order.