It was once said that in Kathmandu, there were more temples than houses and more statues of gods than residents. Kathmandu city, which dates back to the eighth century, is like an open-air museum. Kathmandu, also called city of temples, is a valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks and forested hills. Kathmandu is the ideal destination for culture tour in Nepal. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and the gateway for foreign tourists visiting Nepal.
Kathmandu has been a popular backpackers’ destination and base camp for those interested in exploring the Himalayas. Culturally and artistically rich, the city of Kathmandu is also home to 7 world heritage sites that include bustling temples, Buddhist Stupas and historic monuments.
The bowl-shaped valley is around 1400 meters above sea level (4500 feet), and contains two sister cities; Patan and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu valley which is also known as the ‘tri-city’ is often referred to as a treasure house of art and sculptures. With its unique architecture, Stupas, squares, and museums, Kathmandu’s three cities is the best destination to experience cultural tour in Nepal.
The traditions, religious beliefs, languages, social organizations and people make up Nepal’s culture. Historical monuments, music, dance, literature, sacred pilgrimage sites, and language reflect the richness of Nepalese culture. Interaction with the ethnic communities enhances the excitement and provides insight into Nepali lifestyle.
World Heritage Sites located in Kathmandu Valley:
There are seven World Heritage Sites within a radius of 20 kilometers of Kathmandu, making it the city with the most World Heritage Sites in the world. The rural lifestyle, culture, traditions, and craftsmanship of the locals contributed immensely to this. You can witness mixed culture and tradition with mixed settlement of people within this small city.
The World Heritage sites in Kathmandu include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swyambhuanth Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa & Changunarayan Temple.
Highlights of World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley:
- A visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square will allow you to witness ancient statues, newari architecture, temples, and old Royale Palace that reflects Nepali art, culture, and history.
- Known as the ‘city of devotees’, Bhaktapur is known for its stunning culture and you can observe elegant art, colorful festivals, traditional dances, and the typical Newar lifestyle visiting there.
- Patan Durbar Square is one of the oldest Buddhist site in the World and home to many Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments with beautiful carvings, bronze gateways, and guardian deities that draws visitor’s attention.
- Pashupatinath is one of the biggest Hindu temple in the world there people around the World come to pay respect to Lord Shiva and seek blessings from him. A unique feature of the temple is a practice of burning dead bodies and mourning in full view of temple-visitors. You cannot witness this unique practice elsewhere.
- Swayambhunath Stupa is the most ancient, most iconic and most visited holy shrine in the Kathmandu valley. Various temples and shrines comprise this complex, which is sacred to Buddhists and Hindus equally. There is religious harmony between two religions at this site, making it worthwhile to visit.
- Boudhanath Stupa represents Buddhist culture and tradition which is said to have been created just after the death of the Buddha. The peaceful and calm environment of this pilgrimage site will catch your attention.
- Changunarayan temple is a traditional Nepali style temple dictated to Lord Vishnu. The carvings in the main temple and the statues that surround it make you feel like you’re walking in a museum.
Festivals celebrated in Kathmandu Valley
The festivals that are celebrated throughout the year are also a major part of cultural tourism in Kathmandu. There are actually more festivals celebrated in Kathmandu than the number of days in a year combined. Nepal is a secular state where all religions enjoy respect for one another’s culture and tradition. The people of Kathmandu celebrate different types of festivals according to their religion. These festivals offer a unique experience for tourists, and you will love participating in them.
Highlights of Festivals celebrated in Kathmandu Valley:
- Known as the land of festivals, Nepal is a place of celebration for one community or another every single day.
- Every festivals celebrated has its own meaning and people celebrate their festivals with fun and joy.
- Kathmandu celebrates its festivals and events with the same fervor and enthusiasm as it did hundreds of years ago when people did not have other means of entertainment.
- Taking pride in one’s own culture and respecting others’ culture is the most amazing part of celebrating festivals in Nepal.
Community home stay in Kathmandu
A home stay in Kathmandu gives you the opportunity to experience Nepal through the eyes of the local people by taking part in local festival activities, eating home-cooked food, and experiencing daily rituals. Kathmandu’s community home stays offer visitors the chance to experience Nepalese hospitality and culture.
Highlights of Community Home-Stay in Kathmandu Valley:
- The host community shows their warm welcome to visitors by putting tika (a mark worn on the forehead by Hindus), offering flowers, and organizing cultural dances.
- You will get an opportunity to experience the unique culture, norms, and lifestyle of the locals.
- You can even participate in local festivals and be a part of celebration along with the local community.
Taking a cultural tour in Nepal is the best way to experience the diversity of the country. Be prepared to be inspired and to experience the Nepali culture, a culture you have never experienced before.
