Kathmandu is the capital city of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, the largest Himalayan state in Asia. It is the largest metropolis in Nepal, with a population of 1.4 million in the city proper, and 2.5 million in its urban agglomeration across the Valley, which includes the towns of Lalitpur, Kirtipur, Madhyapur Thimi and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu is also the largest metropolis in the Himalayan hill region.
The city stands at an elevation of approximately 1,400 metres (4,600 feet) above sea level in the bowl-shaped Kathmandu Valley of central Nepal. The valley is historically termed as "Nepal Proper" and has been the home of Newar culture, a cosmopolitan urban civilization in the Himalayan foothills.
Kathmandu has been the center of Nepal's history, art, culture and economy. It has a multiethnic population within a Hindu and Buddhist majority. Religious and cultural festivities form a major part of the lives of people residing in Kathmandu. Tourism is an important part of the economy as the city is the gateway to the Nepalese Himalayas.
Nepali is the most spoken language in the city, while English is understood by the city's educated residents.
Patan Durbar Square is situated at the centre of the city of Lalitpur in Nepal. One of its attraction is the ancient royal palace where the Malla Kings of Lalitpur resided. The Durbar Square is a marvel of Newar architecture. The Square floor is tiled with red bricks.
The Kathmandu Durbar Square held the palaces of the Malla and Shah kings who ruled over the city. Along with these palaces, the square surrounds quadrangles, revealing courtyards and temples.
Boudhanath is a stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal. The ancient Stupa is one of the largest in the world. The influx of large populations of refugees from Tibet has seen the construction of over 50 Tibetan Gompas (Monasteries) around Boudhanath. As of 1979, Boudhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Swayambhu is an ancient religious architecture atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley, west of Kathmandu city. The Swayambhu complex consists of a stupa, a variety of shrines and temples, some dating back to the Licchavi period.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the plaza in front of the royal palace of the old Bhaktapur Kingdom, 1400m above sea level. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the current town of Bhaktapur which lies 13 km east of Kathmandu.Kathmandu
Patan Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Boudhanath
Swayambhunath
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Useful information
Nepal’s Electricity is 220-240 Volts and 50 HZ. Electricity flow is not smooth in Nepal. Voltage fluctuation is very common and it is advised that you use an adapter with quality power surge protector for your electronics.
A visa for Nepal can be obtained on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Outside of Nepal, A visa can also be obtained at the nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.
If you really want to get a feel of the pulse of the city, try local transportation like public buses, battery run three wheelers. You could even try rides on local rickshaws, ponies or bullock-carts where they're available. For some quick sightseeing as well as time-saving, rickshaw is the best.
Nepali is the most spoken language in the city, while English is understood by the city's educated residents.
