Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Nepal

The capital of Nepal has some interesting titles under its belt, including “Heaven in Hills”, “City Of Temples” and “Open-Air Museum”.

Ancient buildings stand in clusters in close proximity to Durbar Square which buzzes with activity - bright saris-clad girls walk past you; hawkers tout for their souvenirs; animals bask in warm sunlight. It's a world of spiritual purity inhabited by humans, animals and deities. Religion is the glue that keeps people together.

Do and See

• Durbar Square

  It's one of Kathmandu’s most visited attractions. Ancient buildings, beautiful carvings and mysterious temples are dotted around. Motorcycles whizzing by, peddlers with their wares spread out on the ground and kids playing football make it a hive of activity.

• Swayambhunath

  The sacred site of Buddhist pilgrimage atop a hill contains a stupa, a number of shrines and temples. Monkeys frolic across the filed, not leery of humans at all. A solemn religious ritual in celebration of Sakyamuni’s birthday is held every year.

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square

  This extensive square contains whole myriad of temples. Morning markets open at around six, offering a true taste of the local life.

  
  
  
• National Museum of Nepal

  The century-old museum, the oldest in Nepal, is a showpiece of Buddhist art in Nepal. It contains a number of theme halls dedicated to paintings, statues, murals, carvings and the likes.