PLACES OF TOURISTIC INTERESTS

Kathmandu City (Kantipur):

Some importance monuments to be seen in Kathmandu.

Kasthamandap: Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal has its mane derived from a famed pagoda structure called Kasthamandap. This 17th century monument is said to have been built from a single giant tree.

Hanuman Dhoka: A very ancient seat of royalty-locally known \as Hanuman Dhoka. The word Hanuman Dhoka is the name of monkey god and Dhoka means entrance as well as palace. The entire palace complex here is named after the monkey god. Hanuman, a very important symbol of protective divine power.This is the palace where all the monarchs of Nepal including our present king Birendra were crowned. The impressive red statue of Hanuman here dates back to 17th century AD.
Basantapur Burja: This nine storied pagoda structure is one of the most beautiful architectural jewels in the square. Many intricately carved windows and fantastic wooden struts of this building is the perfect example of highly developed Nepalese woodcraft.
Temple of Kumari : This 17th century temple residence of Kumari, the living goddess is very monastic in character. This was specially built for royal Kumari-who is Buddhist by birth but the age old tradition honors her as Hindu state goddess. This is the perfect examples of religious tolerance Nepal is known for. One can walk into this temple courtyard and enjoy its interior view. She frequently appears in the window to acknowledge the greetings from visitors. Photography is not allowed in the temple premises.
Shiva Parvati Temple : This is a cute little temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and his spouse Parvati. The divine couple looking from the window here is sure to click your camera any time. Please keep it handy.
Jagganath Temple : This temple is known for erotic figures. Hindu philosophy explains sex as love leading to liberation. This temple is dedicated to the god of universe.
Taleju Temple : This is the most imposing structure in the entire Durbar Square. this 16th century pagoda specially built for the royal family is open only once a year for the public during Dasain, the greatest Hindu festival that falls sometime in mid-October.
Kaal Bhairava : This is the biggest stone statue of Bhairava you will see in Nepal. This god of terror and death represents the terrifying aspect of lord Shiva. He stands on the dead body of a demon, the symbolic of his ruling the world of the dead.
Swayambhunath Stupa : This monument is about 2 km. west of downtown Kathmandu, located on a lovely little hillock. This stupa is said to be 2000 years old. This famous place of Buddhist worship known as the monkey temple in the tourist world, commands a beautiful cityscape. This stupa has two different ways leading to the top-one from the front that requires you to climb 360 pilgrim steps and another one in the back is a short cut.
Boudahanath Stupa : This biggest stupa of Nepal is said to have been built in 5th century around. This place of worship attracts tens of thousands of Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet, Sikkim and Bhutan every year in winter. This place is often described as a mini-Tibet of Nepal.
Pashupatinath : This is the holiest of Hindu temple situated on the bank of Bagmati river. This is the largest and most important Hindu temple complex said to have been built before Christ. This temple dedicated to Lord Siva attracts, Tens of thousands of Hindu pilgrims from India every year sometime in the middle of spring.
Gokarna : This is a game sanctuary lying only 7 kilometers from Kathmandu. About 15 minutes drive from downtown kathmandu takes you to this popular picnic spot. Gokarna Safari Park here boasts of a fairly good number of spotted deer, rhesus monkeys, peacocks and several other interesting species of birds.
Sankhu (Vajra Yogoni): It is a typical Newari town 18 kms north-east of Kathmandu, with many fine old buildings and temples. Beyond the village, up a long flight of stone stairs, is Bajra Yogini, a historical temple with beautiful view of the local area.: Sundarijal: It is a famous for its scenic beauty located 22 Kms north of Kathmandu . There are magnificent waterfalls, cataracts and rock formations. It is an ideal place for picnic, requiring a short walk after the motorable road.

Budhanilkantha : It is the famed stone statue of Lord Vishnu lying on the huge serpent bed. This 7th century sculpture was most skillfully carved out of giant single stone. This place of worship is open to all except our monarch who according to a very old tradition is the incarnation of Vishnu himself.
Kirtipur: is a very old village situated in a small hill. Newars living here are known for their bravery and communal unity. Even the brave Gorkha King Prithivi Narayan Shah had to resign himself several times to his plan tom conquer Kirtipur once a very strong principality. It is said that only on his fourth attempt he succeeded to conquer it. This little village boasts many ancient monuments including the famed temple of tiger faced Bhairava. Almost every house here has a handloom for weaving wears that can make very nice souvenirs to take home.
Godawari: the only botanical garden of Nepali is about 22 km. southeast of Kathmandu. The road to this beauty spot goes through three old Newar villages : Harisidhi, Thaiva and Badegaon. This garden looking always very lush with its crystal clear spring water running is a perfect place to sit relaxed in total peace. Picnic here always becomes a tremendous fun with nature.