At Kathmandu, there is too many historical places to be visit. Among them is Darbar Squarewhich is the complex of places, country yards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. The Durbar Square, protected as a UNESCO world Heritage site is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city.
SWAYAMBHU STUPA:
It watches over the valley from the top of a hillock on its western side. The stupa is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu valley out of a primordial lake. Swayabhu is also known as Sengu and is listed as a World Heritage Site.
BUDHANILKHANTHA:
It is situated below Shivpuri hill at the northern end of the valley. It is about 9km from the city center. The hub of the temple complex is a pond in which lies a great stone figure of the Hindu god Shiv recling on the coils of a cosmic serpent. It is also known as Bhuijasi.
BOUDHANATH STUPA:
It lies about 6km to the east of downtown Kathmandu and is largest stupa in the valley. It looms 36 meters high and presents on of the most fascinating specimens to stupa design. Boudhanath a World Heritage Site is also known as Khasti. There are more than 45 Buddhist monasteries in the area. An information counter run by the Bouddha Area Preservation and Development Committee offers assistance to visitors.
PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE:
One of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world, Pashupatinath lies 5km east of the city center. The richly ornamented pagoda houses the sacred phallus symbol of Lors Shiva. Chronicles indicate temple's existence prior to 400 A.D. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips. A statue of big bull considered to be vehicle of Lord Shiva placed at the gate of the temple is seen also attracted the foreign Tourist besides a place of pyre located at the bank of the river facilitating to burn dead body near temple as a belief that the spirits will be emancipated.
DURBAR SQUARE:
Like its counterpart in Kathmandu is an enchanting mileage of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. Listed as a World Heritage Site the former Royal Palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects.
IBA BAHI:
It is situated about two minute walk south of Durbar Square. It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries and reflects the sophisticated architecture of the Malla period. There is a shrine dedicated to Shakyamuni right across the entrance.
OKU BAHAL:
It is situated a few steps past Mahaboudha and is one of the best-known Buddhist places of worship in Patan. The stone paved courtyard is enclosed by two storeyed building with gilded roofs. The wood carving on roof struts are especially attractive. The place is peppered with sacred images and other small shrines.
KHUMBESWOR TEMPLE:
It is situated in the northern part of Patan is dedicated to Shiva. It was founded in 1392 B.S and is the oldest existing temple in the city. It is also one of the only three temples in the valley with five roofs. The two ponds here (Kwanti) are believed to be connected by a lake, which lies severaldays walk north of Kathmandu.
Kwa Bahal:
It is also known as Golden Temple, is a Buddhist Monastery courtyard dating to the 21century. It is a five minute walk west and northern end of Darbar Square. The monastery building is embellished with exceptionally fine woodcarving and repose work. Artistic images are scattered around the courtyard and devotees can be seen offering worship at the many shrines here.
DURBAR SQUARE:
As you walk in, you cannot but be overcome by a feeling of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the special layout here. The 15th century palace of 55 windows situated to the left as you enter through the city gate inspires admiration. The national Art Gallery is laso housed inside. The palace entrance the Golden Gate is a masterpiece in repose art. In front of the Palace building is a medley of temples of various design.
TAUMADHI SQUARE:
It lies to the east of Darbar Square reached by a narrow brick-paved lane. The towering five-roofed Myatapol temple presides over the square. The monument gracefully soars into the sky atop a five-storeyed plinth. The stairway leading upto the temple is flanked by figures of deities and mythical beast, each times more powerful than the one immediately below.
DATTAREYA TEMPLE:
It takes its name from the Dattareya temple dedicated to a three-headed combination of the Hindu deities Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Set in amze of streets lines with richly ornamented house, the square is famed for its many ornate Hindu monasteries known as Math. The nationalwoodworking Museum is also housed here and the Brass and Bronze Museum is across the street.
SIDDHA PUKHU:
A pond dating back to the Lichhavi period is period is better known as Ta-Pukha, meaning big pond. Though situated right at the bus stop, it provides a serene atmosphere with its sashaying fish and the stone images of different Hindu and Buddhist Gods.
SURYA BINAYAK:
It is one of the most popular pilgrimage spots. Situated in a thick forest to the south of Bhaktapur. It is a 20 minutes walk from the trolley bus terminal. The temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Ganesh is crowded with devotees especially on Tuesdays and Saturays.
