Kathmandu Excursions

Kathmandu Urban Agglomeration is made up of 3 cities of Bhaktapur, Patan (Lalitpur) and Kathmandu itself. Bhaktapur and Patan can be said to be the sub urban areas of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur was the ancient capital of Nepal where as Patan is the citadel of the Newars. Both these towns have monuments worth visiting. You need not stay at these places, as they are just an hour drive from the Kathmandu. Following are some of the must visiting sites in Bhaktapur and Lalitpur that is also known as Patan: -

Patan Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square that is situated in the very heart of the Patan city catches the fancy of tourists. The subtle design of this monument immediately attracts the attention of visitors. The square is scattered with number of ancient palaces, temples and shrines that are noted for their exquisiteness. The Patan Durbar Square consists of three main Chowk. These Chowk have been built in different eras. The three Chowk namely the Central Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk constitute the three entrances to the Durbar. The Sundari Chowk holds in its center a masterpiece of stone architecture; the royal bath called "Tushahity".

Krishna Mandir
Built in the 17th century, the temple of Lord Krishna is a masterpiece of fusion architecture. This subtle mix of Indian and Nepalese architecture holds a commanding position in the palace complex of Patan. The monument looks distinct because of its unique design. It is supposed to be the first specimen of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. It is the only temple in Nepal having 21 spires and is completely made of stone.

Phulchowki
Located around 10-km southeast of Patan Phulchowki is a quite sneak out destination. Situated at a height of 2,758 meters, the place is a good spot for hiking. A Buddhist shrine is situated on the top of the hill, which can be reached through a motor-able road. Nevertheless the best way to go there is through hiking.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square was the site of the ancient capital of Nepal. The traditional architecture of this place commands immediate attention. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces in its premises. Notable among these are the lion gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the golden gate and The Palace of 55 Windows. The statue of the King Bhupatindra Malla, in the act of worship, is placed on a column facing the palace. Of the various sculpture available in Nepal this is considered to be the most magnificent.

Nyatapola Temple
Like various other monuments in Nepal, King Bhupatindra Malla built this five story Pagoda. The construction date is scribed as 1702 A.D. It stands on a five-terraced platform. On each of the terraces squat a pair of figures; two famous wrestlers, two Elephants, two Lions, two Griffins and "Baghini" and "Singhini" - the Tigress and the Lioness Goddesses. All these symbols represent various ruling dynasties of Nepal. This is one of the tallest Pagodas in entire south-Asia. This structure is very famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.

Surya Vinayak
Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhaktapur, the temple of Ganesh is placed in a sylvan setting to catch the first rays of the rising sun. It is a good picnic spot that is flanked by many attractive landscapes.

Changu Narayan
Situated at the end of a long ridge that runs well into the valley, it has been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 A.D and said to be the oldest temple in the valley.