Kathmandu Valley:

Legend has said that Kathmandu valley was once a great lake and Manjushree is said to have slashed a hill, which is presently known as Chovar, to drain the water to give us Kathmandu valley, as we know it. Today it is no longer an expansive watery body but a vast lake of architectural and cultural wonders.
Kathmandu , the small mountain sheltered valley; the arrival and visit point for the visitors is the historical and architectural center point of Nepal which was crowned with the title of " Capital City " after the great unification of Nepal in 1768 AD.

It is no wonder that seven UNESCO designated world heritage sites are situated within a radius of a few km in the valley. The three Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur (3 districts of the Valley) are renowned to the arena of tourism for being a masterpiece in art and architecture. Just walking through the narrow lanes of the city is travel back into time. Unchanged for centuries some of the places look like open air museums with skillfully built temples, palaces and stone structures which bear testimony to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the city. It is also home to Kumari, the living child goddess who is the protector of the city. The old carved houses, narrow lanes, and frequently encountering ancient temples and moreover adorned by the rare and attracting cultures and festivals enlists Kathmandu as "a focal destination" for sightseeing.

The valley forwards itself to the panoramic views of the captivating Himalayas , sequestered jungles and also to the exotic hiking corners.

Kirtipur:

Kirtipur is one of the most ancient attractions of Nepal . Situated atop a strategic hillock 10 km southwest of Kathmandu , Kirtipur (local name Kipu) indeed embodies courage and bravery. Tribhuvan University is located at the foot of the hill. This historic town has many things to offer like old shrines and temples, old houses, the people typically dressed in old traditional costumes, people working on ancient loom etc. Those, who enjoy basking in antiquity, should never miss to go around this historic place to have a closes-up view of the wonderful lifestyle of its Newar inhabitants and their much admired skills in producing textile and other handicraft items. The height of Kirtipur also makes it a favored place for viewing the Kathmandu Valley as well as the Himalayas in the distant north. And for those, who wish blending their cultural trip with a touch of spiritual salvation, there are the Buddhist Chilamchu Stupa, Shiva Parvati temple and many other remarkable mountains.

Patan:

This ancient city of Patan also Known as Lalitpur or the city of fine arts is about five kilometers southeast of Kathmandu . Lalitpur is fragmented from other cities due to its substantive architectural ancient masterpieces. Patan's central durbar square is absolutely packed with temples: it's an architectural center point with a far greater concentration of temples per sq. meter than in Kathamandu or Bhaktapur.

Krishna Mandir, which is one of the grandeur of the square, was built in 1637 by the king Siddhinarsingh Malla. The entire temple is constructed from the stone. Golden Temple which is the unique Buddhist Monastery was founded in the12th century which is a large rectangular building has three roofs and a copper gilded façade with the images of Buddha and Avalokitesvara where there are Buddha images and illustrations on the walls. Take the pleasure of discovering this Patan durbar square, which has been entitled in the World Heritage Site

Bhaktapur :

Bhaktapur, locally known as Khwopa is world-renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture and indigenous life-style. It is known for its majestic monuments, colorful festivals and the native Newars best known for their generations-old craftsmanship. The ancient city is also popularly known as the “city of culture”, “the living heritage” and “Nepal’s cultural capital”.

Situated at an altitude of about 1,401m, Bhaktapur covers area of 4 square miles. The city lies about 14 kilometers east of Kathmandu and can be reached by public transport and other means of vehicles. Shaped like a conch-shell, Bhaktapur means the city of devotees . It is the third major town of the valley and in many ways the most mediaeval. Pottery and weaving are its ancient industries. Bhaktapur's Durbar Square is much larger and more spacious than Kathmandu’s and much less crowded with temples than Patan's.

Bhaktapur's Royal Palace was founded by Yaksha Malla and added to by successive Kings. Unfortunately the palace suffered great damage in the 1934 earthquake and its subsequent reconstruction did not match its original artistry.

Places of interest in out of Kathmandu valley:

There are many beautiful and interesting places to visit outside the Kathmandu Valley- places of historical importance of noted for natural beauty. Most of them can be easily reached from Kathmandu by road or by air.

Pokhara:

Pokhara is the most popular destination in Nepal after Kathmandu. Its flame rests on the natural beauty of its lakeside location and its proximity to the mountains, not on any great historical or cultural endowment, it is the starting point for some of the most famous treks in Nepal. And there are also plenty of short walks and day trips, suitable for children and weary trekkers that can be made around valley. More than 65% of the total trekkers of Nepal trek in Annapurna region. It is only 35 minutes flight and 6 hours drive from the capital city Kathmandu. There are around 25 flights and several deluxe tourist bus services daily. There are hundreds of tourist standard hotels including non star to five star levels. All kinds of tourist facilities such as, foreign currency exchange, ACAP entry permit, visa extension, flight ticket reconfirmation etc. are available in this multi -cultural city. This city popularly known as "City of Tourism" is absolutely free from any type of pollution.

For those seeking short and relatively easy trekking at warmer, lower elevations, there are a few options available, although these former treks have been modified by new roads, making them more suitable as day hike areas.

Lumbini:

Lumbini (306Km. -east); this World Heritage Site is not only a place of pilgrimage but also an international tourist attraction where Lord Buddha was born, who ultimately got enlightenment and preached his message to the world. This nativity site was identified by Indian Emperor Ashoka's commemorative pillar. The main attraction at the Lumbini remains the Sacred Garden that is spread over 8 sq. km, the Mayadevi Temple , Ashoka Pillar, sacred pond, China Temple etc. The sacred Garden possesses all the treasures of the historic area. The Mayadevi temple is the main attraction for pilgrims and archaeologists alike. Here we find a bas relief of Mayadevi, the Buddha's mother giving birth to him. Standing west to the Mayadevi shrine is the oldest monument of Nepal ; the Ashoka's pillar. Emperor Ashoka built the pillar in 249 BC to commemorate his pilgrimage to the sacred site. To the south of the pillar, we fine the sacred pond, Puskarni, where Queen Mayadevi had taken a bath just before giving birth to the Buddha. Today the holy site is being developed as the supreme Buddhist pilgrimage and a symbol of world peace. The shrines and monasteries built by different countries and in different times reflect the architectural traditions of the respective countries, and thus giving Lumbini an international feel with a message of universal friendship and brotherhood. About 30km east of Lumbini is the village of Tilaurakot , which is believed to have been the location of the Kapilvastu royal palace where the Buddha grew up as the Shakya dynasty prince, until he renounced it at the age of 29 in search of enlightenment.

A tour to this destination will bring emancipation in one's life, which is so pure, peace and prosperous to those who seek salvation from the filthy activities practiced in the world. There are other places of interest too nearby as Kapilbastu. It is accessible by air from Kathmandu to Bhairahwa. From Kathmandu it takes about eight hours by bus or car.

Daman:

Daman in Nepal is a destination for all seasons and is a perfect place for Honeymoon Couples, or any other visitors with short stay in Nepal, Family Holidays, Meditation, Seminars and place to unwind or undertake more Adventurous Outdoor Activities. Daman is located 80 KM South West of Kathmandu on the Tribhuwan Raj Path (the original Highway to the Nearest Indian Border Town, Raxaul), and is exactly half- way to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu and it is 2500m height from the sea level. It will take about Maximum 3 hrs by Care/Minibus from Kathmandu; 07 minutes by Helicopter; 3.5 hrs from Chitwan National Park; 7 hrs from Pokhara; only 100 KM from the Indian Border town of Raxaul (4 hrs from Raxaul Indian Border Town).

On clear days views of 400 KM range of Himalayas Panorama including Mt. Everest can be seen just standing on one spot; 8 out of the 10 Highest Mountains. Hiking to a Buddhist Monastery & Rikheshwor Mahadevsthan or surrounding Tamang villages. Pony Trek, Mountain Biking, Sunset Walk, Bird Watching & Fishing in near by Indra Sarovar Lake besides this Daman is famous for its countless varieties of Wild Orchids; Colorful and varied bird-life abounds; Deer can be seen around the resort compound sometimes.

Dhulikhel:

Popular as a Himalayan viewpoint this small town is 30 km from the capital. Located on the Arniko highway that connects Nepal and Tibet , the small town still retains its ancient grandeur - age-old customs, temples and houses. The Newar town of Dhulikhel offers a traditional atmosphere along with spectacular views. A few minutes from Dhulikhel are the ancient villages of Panauti and Namo Buddha, which have their own stories to tell.

Once an important link in the ancient trade route to Tibet , Dhulikhel has a glorious past, which can be seen in the lovely buildings and intricate woodcarvings in the shop-lined streets and temples. Pleasant climate is big attraction at Dhulikhel.

Kakani:

Kakani is another good location for viewing the mountain scenery. Only two hours north-west of Kathmandu , one can see the mountain landscape of central Nepal , a vast collection of majestic peaks stretching from Ganesh Himal to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. There is an unusually perfect blending of the imposing mountain scenery with the more sylvan environment of the lower valleys. Rhododendrons growing wild on the mountain slopes begin to bloom in late winter and stay in bloom for several months, giving the village even more charm.

Panauti:

It is a thriving Newari village with beautiful temples and interesting old houses. Located between Punyamati and Rosikhola about 34km south east of Kathmandu . It derives its name from Punyamati River , also known as Punyamata by the local people. It is an interesting spot, as the people tend to believe that there is a huge rock all the way to Godavari from Panauti. They take it as a Naga, the serpent king capable of protecting them against earthquake of any richer scale in 1934. Once you are in Panauti, you will discover that the whole area is dotted with innumerable gods and goddesses rather like the constellation of stars in the universe.

Namo Buddha:

Namo Buddha or Namura Stupa, which is highly revered by both Nepalese and Tibetan Buddhists. This is situated on a hill above Panauti. It requires an easy drive or good walk to get here. There is an amazing legends related to the Buddha, which is commemorated by an ancient stones slab and a stupa with the al-seeing eyes. From here, one can have incredible views to the Himalayan to north. A 7th century Chinese Buddhists pilgrim was told a similar story in Mongolia when he visited pilgrimage place, which seems to show the story was going the rounds of the tellers. It is said that Buddha in one of his previous lives was a prince and while game hunting with his friends, he found some tiger cubs whose mother was starving and unable to feed them. The prince cut some flesh from his body and fed the starving tigress and her cubs. The local from Panauti claimed him as their prince and say because of this good deed he became the Buddha in a later life.

Tansen:

Located at an altitude of 1343m above the sea-level, Tansen is the most popular summer resort in western Nepal because of its position and climate. It has the most extensive views of the country's chief attraction, the great Himalayan ranges from Gaurishanker in the northeast to Dhaulagiri in the west. It takes just seven-hours by drive from Pokhara to get Tansen.

Palanchowk Bhagawati:

It is a 42km, one-hour drive from Kathmandu to Palanchowk on the Arniko highway. This noted historic temple of goddess Kali is situated at a hilltop some 7km north of Panchkhal. One can really enjoy the panoramic view of the landscape from this spot. This temple is said to have been constructed during the region of King Mandev. The temple houses a three feet high idol of goddess Kali artistically carved in a black stone, which is one of the best examples of such intricate workmanship.

Gosainkunda :

One of the most famous religious places of pilgrimage of Nepal is Gosainkunda lake, situated at an altitude of about 4360 m. The best approach to Gosainkunda is through Dhunche, 132 kilometres north east of kathmandu. Dhunche is linked with Kathmandu by a motorable road. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and the south, the Lake is grand and picturesque. There are other nine famous lakes such as Saraswati, Bhairav, Sourya and Ganesh Kunda, etc.

Timal Narayan :

The route from Dhulikhel to Timal Narayan is ideal for a short trek. From here one can have a beautiful view of Gaurishanker Himal and other important peaks as well as Sunkoshi river. It is also very pleasant to visit the villages of the Tamang people who live in this area.

Charikot:

About 133 kilometers from Kathmandu , Charikot provides a spectacular mountain view of the Gaurishanker. In the eastern upper part of Dolakha township there is a famous roofless temple of Dolakha Bhimsen .

Helambu:

Helambu situated about 72 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu is famous for its scenic grandeur and pleasant climate. There are many Buddhist monasteries amidst a rich and enchanting landscape. Sundarijal is the starting point to trek to Helambu which is mere 11 kilometers away from Kathmandu .

Gorkha:

Gorkha is the birth place of King Prithvi Narayan Shah- the Great, the founder of modern Nepal . Situated on a hill overlooking the snowy peaks of the Himalayas , there is a beautiful old palace known as Gorkha Durbar. There are two attractive temples of Gorakhnath and Kali inside the palace precinct. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple of Gorakhanath . Gorkha can be reached in about six hours from Kathmandu and in about four hours from Pokhara. A side trip to Manakamana on the way to Gorkha is very enjoyable and interesting.

Muktinath:

The famous temple of Lord Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated about 18 kilometers north east of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3,749 meters. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather. There are two ways to get to Muktinath from Kathmandu . Either to take a direct flight from Kathmandu via Pokhara to Jomsom and hike for a couple of hours via Kagbeni or to trek all the way from Pokhara. There is also air service from Pokhara to Jomsom.

Rapti Valley (Chitwan):

From Kathmandu it takes six hours to reach Chitwan. Situated 120 kilometers south-west of Kathmandu , the main attraction of Chitwan is Royal Chitwan National Park . This is one of the Nepal's largest forest regions with a wide range of wildlife- the rare great one horned rhinoceros, several species of deer, sloth bear, leopard, wild boar, fresh water dolphin, crocodile and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. The diverse ecology is home to around 600 plant species, 50 mammals, and 49 amphibians and reptiles. Some of these flora and fauna are endangered.

Namche Bazaar:

The name of Namche Bazaar is generally associated with that of Sagarmatha ( Mt. Everest ), the highest peak in the world. It is the entrance to the Everest region. Situated on the lap of Khumbu Himal range, Namche Bazaar is about 241 km. from Kathmandu and the distance is generally covered within 15 days by trekking. This place is the home of the legendary Sherpas. One can fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Syangboche in the Everest region. Accommodations are available at Lukla, Namche bazaar, Thyangboche, Debuche, Periche, Pangboche, Lobuche and Gorakhshep respectively.

Janakpur :

A great religious place, Janakpur is famous as the birthplace of Sita, the consort of Lord Rama. There is an artistic marble temple of Sita (Janaki), popoularly known as Naulakha Mandir. Religous festivals, pilgrimages, trade fairs and other festivities are held here on Bivaha Panchami and Ram Navami days. Janakpur is also linked with Kathmandu by air and road.

Biratnagar:

The second largest city of Nepal Biratnagar is situated in the Koshi Zone. The city has some of the largest industrial undertakings in the country. There are a couple of pilgrimage spots in Dharan and Barahachhetra nearby the city. Biratnager is linked with Kathmandu by air and road.

Barahachhetra :

A few kilometers from the main city of Biratnagar , Barahachhetra, the holy place of Hindu pilgrimage, lies at the confluence of the two rivers the Saptakoshi and Kokaha. There is the temple of Lord Baraha , the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Historians have traced the existence of this image from the twelth century.

Hile:

It is situated about 13 kilometers north of Dhankuta Bazaar. The panoramic view of the major peaks of the eastern Himalayas including Sagarmatha (Mt.Everest) Makalu, Lhotse and Kumbhakarna.

Antu Danda:

It is situated at an altitude of 1,677 m. in the llam district and is famous for its unique views of Everest and Kanchenjunga. It is the best place for viewings sunrise and sunset. There is a motorable road from llam to chhipitar.