How can one truly capture the essence of Kathmandu? Is it as sacred and unique as it’s often described, or is it simply another place waiting to be explored? For the thousands of travelers arriving at Kathmandu International Airport, the city is an overwhelming mix of sights, sounds, and smells that can easily lead to sensory overload.
Whether you’re weaving through the crowded streets in a rickshaw or navigating the busy lanes of Thamel, Kathmandu can take some time to adjust to. It may seem chaotic at first, but give it a moment. Like many iconic destinations in the Indian subcontinent, Kathmandu reveals itself as a fascinating, mesmerizing, and awe-inspiring place all at once. Here are some must-visit spots and top things to do in Kathmandu that you should add to your travel itinerary while exploring the heart of the Himalayas:
Pashupatinath Temple
The iconic Pashupatinath Temple is situated along the Bagmati River. Renowned as the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, it dates back to the 5th century and stands as one of the largest temples in the country. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its breathtaking architecture and its enduring significance as a symbol of faith and spirituality.
While it may sound unsettling, Pashupatinath Temple is also the site of approximately 75% of the funerals in the Kathmandu Valley. In Nepal, funerals are public ceremonies, making it a unique and sometimes confronting experience to witness the cremation of a deceased person, with grieving families present and tourists observing and taking photographs.
Boudhnath Stupa
Boudha Stupa, also known as Bodhanath Stupa, is the largest stupa in Nepal and holds great significance in Tibetan culture. It is one of the holiest Buddhist monuments in the world. Built in the 14th century in Boudha, it has remained a major pilgrimage site ever since. From an aerial view, the stupa takes the shape of a massive mandala, representing the Buddhist universe. Its architecture also embodies the five Buddhas, each symbolizing one of the five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and ether. Other symbolic features include the 13 rings at its base, which represent the path to enlightenment, and the nine levels that signify Mt. Meru, the center of the Buddhist cosmos.
Garden of Dreams
The Garden of Dreams, also known as the Swapan Bagaicha, is one of the most beautiful and serene enclaves in Kathmandu. Located within walking distance from Thamel, Garden of Dreams is where you get to re-discover magic. Hidden cuddling spots aside, the place presents stunning floral displays and an oasis of peace that lets you get away from the hustle-bustle of the city. Think of the Garden of Dreams as the Garden of Eden and Central Park all rolled into one, just smaller. Some of its biggest attractions include the original gate, ponds, fountains and a hidden garden. Oh, and wait for it, there’s WiFi as well!!! This is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying a book, some food and a cup of coffee, in pleasant and quiet surroundings.
Monkey Temple
The Monkey Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple and stupa and a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides one of the best experiences that the city of Kathmandu has on offer. The temple is a beautiful interpretation of Buddhist and Hindu cultures. Its compound is dominated by a gleaming white stupa which has been topped by a gilded spire and the place is always full of monkeys. A trip to the Monkey Temple is intoxicating to say the least. Ancient carvings dominate the architecture while the smell of butter lamps and incense hangs in the atmosphere. Things look even more mystical during the evenings as local devotees spin prayer wheels and the sun sets beyond the horizon to offer one of the most beautiful sunset views in the valley. Do expect to see lots of monkeys also – they see Monkey Temple as their home in Kathmandu.
Relaxation Day at the Hotel Hyatt Pool in Boudha
The Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is one of the top resorts in the country. Spread over 37 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the resort has been built in a traditional Newari style. Each of its 280 rooms enjoys views of the surrounding mountains, lush gardens or the nearby Bodhanath stupa. Guests can also enjoy the fitness center facilities which includes a health and beauty spa, two outdoor swimming pools, outdoor and indoor whirlpools, jogging track and tennis courts. Out of the two outdoor pools, one pool is for kids while the other is strictly for adults, and then there’s also a jacuzzi. The adult pool measures 25m in length and is one of the largest L-shaped pools in the country. If you’re searching for an excuse to enjoy a full relaxation day while in Kathmandu, you really don’t need anything else than visiting hotel Hyatt. On Saturdays and Sundays they have brunch and pool at a good price. Highly recommended.
Round of Golf at Gokarna Forest Resort
The Gokarna Forest Resort is located within the Gokarna Protected Forest, a part of the area that served as the royal hunting grounds for the kings of Nepal. While the serene and peaceful environment makes the resort an ideal place for relaxation, a game of golf is perhaps the best way of enjoying the spectacular beauty that the Gokarna Forest Resort has on offer. The 6755-yard golf course has been designed by Gleneagles Golf Developments and is considered to be one of the top venues for golf enthusiasts in Asia. Inspired by the mysteries of this forbidden valley, this masterpiece is an 18-hole course that boasts of being the only bentgrass greens in Southeast Asia. And while you’re enjoying a game of golf, you can always expect a spotted deer or those pestering monkeys to keep you company. Other things to do include jungle paintball, forest walks, spa treatments, horse rides, cycling, cart tours and bird watching. Don’t forget to check out the Harmony Spa, a therapeutic spa that combines modern luxury with breathtaking natural beauty, and offers features such as a gym, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna, an indoor swimming pool and a beauty treatment center.
There are so many things to see and do in Kathmandu that you can easily spend days in the city without having a moment’s respite. From beautiful architecture and ancient temples to delightful natural beauty and majestic mountain views, a trip to Kathmandu is always special. The 2015 earthquake may have caused a lot of damage and destruction and hurt tourism in Nepal, but things are becoming normal and tourists are starting to flock to the country in droves to see the local culture at its beautiful best.