Embark on this leisure trekking and tour in the Himalayan Heritage of Nepal.
A tour of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur city, Nagarkot, and Dhulikhel is a popular itinerary in Nepal and it is a bucket list experience for all, as it combines cultural exploration in Kathmandu with scenic beauty, cultural and historical monuments, wood carving in Bhaktapur and panoramic views of the Himalayas in Nagarkot and Dhulikhel. Here are some details about each destination:
1. Kathmandu Valley:
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is known for its rich history, ancient temples, and vibrant culture. Some of the key attractions in Kathmandu include:
• Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. Visit the living Goddess Kumari at Kumari House. The best time to pay the courtesy to Kumari is between 10 am to 11 am in the morning and 3 pm to 4 pm at the evening time.
• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, an important pilgrimage site. Where you can experience the Mandala and Thanka paintings at Monastery and School.
• Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. It is dedicated to incarnation of the Hindu god Shiva.
• Swayambhunath Stupa: Also known as the Monkey Temple, it offers a panoramic view of the city. The Mountain views are clearly seen from the top.
2. Bhaktapur City Tour
Bhaktapur is a historic city located about 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the three ancient royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley, along with Kathmandu and Patan. Bhaktapur is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, intricate wood carvings, and rich cultural heritage. Here's an overview of Bhaktapur city:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the main charisma of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a vast complex of palaces, temples, courtyards, and statues showcasing exquisite Newari craftsmanship. Some notable structures within the Durbar Square area include the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple (the tallest pagoda temple in Nepal), Bhairava Nath Temple, and Golden Gate.
Traditional Newari Architecture:
Bhaktapur is famous for its traditional Newari(the ethnic group) architecture. The city is home to numerous well-preserved brick buildings, intricately carved wooden windows, doors, and facades. Walking through the narrow streets of Bhaktapur offers a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage.
Pottery Square:
Pottery Square, also known as Kumari Chowk, is a bustling area where you can observe local artisans engaged in traditional pottery making. You can witness the process of shaping clay and creating various pottery items using ancient techniques. It's also an excellent place to purchase unique handmade pottery as souvenirs.
Taumadhi Square:
Taumadhi Square is another beautiful prominent square in Bhaktapur, known for its architectural marvels. The centerpiece of this square is the five-story tall Nyatapola Temple, dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. The square is surrounded by beautiful temples, shrines, and traditional Newari buildings.
Dattatreya Square:
Dattatreya Square is home to the Dattatreya Temple, one of the oldest temples in Bhaktapur. The square also features unique stone sculptures, including the Peacock Window, which is an exquisite example of Newari craftsmanship.
Bhaktapur Art and Craft Museum:
Located near Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the Bhaktapur Art and Craft Museum showcases a vast collection of traditional art, sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts. It offers insights into the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the area.
Festivals in Bhaktapur:
Bhaktapur is renowned for its vibrant festivals and religious celebrations. The city comes alive during festivals like Bisket Jatra, which marks the Nepali New Year observe for 7 days. These events feature colorful processions, traditional dances, and religious rituals.
Visiting Bhaktapur allows you to immerse yourself in the medieval ambiance of the city, witness the traditional way of life, and appreciate the artistic brilliance of Newari architecture. Exploring the narrow alleys, ancient temples, and vibrant squares is a delightful experience for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
3. Nagarkot hill top:
Nagarkot is a scenic hill station located approximately 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu. It is famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on a clear day. Some activities you can enjoy in Nagarkot include:
• Sunrise and sunset viewpoints: Nagarkot offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range, and it's best to wake up early to witness the sunrise over the mountains. This is the ideal place to be for an aged couple and a Honeymoon tour who loves nature.
• Hiking: There are several hiking trails in and around Nagarkot, allowing you to explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the natural beauty including butterflies, Birds, Monkeys, and different types of vegetation.
3. Dhulikhel Countryside:
Dhulikhel is a small town located around 30 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu. It is known for its traditional Newari architecture, scenic landscapes, and views of the Himalayas. Here are some highlights of Dhulikhel:
• Old Town: Explore the narrow streets of the old town, admire the Newari-style houses, and visit local temples and shrines.
• Panoramic views: Dhulikhel offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa.
• Nature walks: Enjoy leisurely walks in the countryside, surrounded by terraced fields, lush greenery, and traditional villages.
It is common to include Nagarkot and Dhulikhel as day trips from Kathmandu, as they are located within a short driving distance. We, at Global Adventure in Kathmandu, offer package tours that cover these four destinations, providing transportation, high-standard accommodation, and guided sightseeing. However, you are always welcome to check with other trekking and tour options and make your lifetime holiday memorable one.