Pashupatinath (lord of animals i.e. Shiva) temple is the holiest shrine of all the Hindus. It is situated on the bank of the holy River Bagmati in Kathmandu. The temple has remained the presiding deity of ruling Nepalese royalty. This temple is sacred pilgrimage for the Hindus all around the world.   

Pashupatinath temple is spread out over a large area which may take few hours to visit around. It is a famous Hindus temple in south Asia with around thousand Shivalingas, shrines, four hundred ninety two temples and icon. The main temple is built in the Pagoda style, has golden roof with a golden pinnacle, and four silver doors.  

The Shleshmantak forest, Aaryaghat (crematorium) at Bagmati River and the Guheshwori temple add additional glory to the site. 

Entrance is for Hindus only to pray in the main temple from the western gate. Tourist may peak inside or go on the other side of the river to have a glimpse of the temple complex from above. During the festival of the Shivaratri (end of February) thousands of devotees and pilgrims visit in this site and make ceremonial fire.  

It is good to be there early in the morning and early evening to see real activities of the people. Devotes are Chanting and dancing in the morning and evening. Aarati puja is held around 6:30 pm in front of cremation place.

 Kirtipur hill (Half day tour):

One of the most typical Newari townsIt has preserved his mediaeval character at its best. It shelters many interesting temples and farmer’s house. In the 12^th – 13^th – century, Kirtipur was already a strongly fortified city. This city was historically importance during the unification conquest of Nepal by Prithivi Narayan Shah. He had to launch three attracts and at last in March 1976, the third assault was successful and the gates opened. 

 
BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE:  

The third former royal city is another of Kathmandu’s rivals. It is situated about 16 km from the capital. Like Patan and Kathmadnu it contains impressive number of artistic treasures. At the same time Bhadgaon deserves to be called the most mediaeval city of the valley. 

Bhadgaon deserves to be called the most mediaeval city of the valley.  Here stands proudly the palace of the 55 windows. The ancient royal palace, a magnificent example of eighteenth century’s architecture, it was built by King Bhupatindra Malla whose kneeling statue stands just in front of the golden gate another masterpiece of Nepalese handicraft. Both palace and gate were completed by Newar artisans in 1753 to 54.

Worth being noted the collection of old Nepalese wood and stone carvings as well as of many beautiful mainly Newari Thang-kas. All these treasures are on display in the Museum installed in the left hand part of the Royal Palace, when facing it.

The gigantic bell close to the Vatsala Temple, which was erected under king Ranjit Malla’s regn, in 1737. Nepalese bell founders were reputed in old times for many centuries: even the Kings of Tibet used to order bells in Nepal. This particular one on Bhadgaon’s Durbar Square is called the dog barking bell for its sound is supposed to chase away the God of Death and his messengers, thus ensuring the Sovereign a long life, if not immortality!

The potter’s place, the Nyatapola, the Bhairabnath temple, the Dattatreya Square and many more other temples are the magnificent structures to see and take picture. It is also called city of devotees. For the commercial pictures one needs to take permission from the authority.  

PATAN DURBAR SQUARE:

Patan Durbar Square is believed to be the oldest Buddhist cities in the world. It was the Capital of an independent kingdom. You may count nine temples near the Royal palace seven of which are facing it. Three Chocks are not to miss: Sundari Chock (Young girls courtyard), Mul Choka (the main courtyard) and Man Keshab (is part of the Royal Palace itself).

The other attractions are the Golden Gate, some of Durbar Square’s Monuments, The Golden Temple and The Thousand Buddha Temple. Another Matsyendranath temple, Khubeshwar temple, Jawalkel Tibetan village and Patan Industrial estate is another half day tour for the visitors. You can easily kill one full day tour in Patan.


KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE:  There is no doubt that one of the main attractions of old Kathmandu consists precisely in strolling on foot through the maze of narrow streets. Here we have Lanes and courtyards, to let one-self be taken in by the mediaeval, leisurely atmosphere of the bazaar (all kind of goods). It is while sauntering through the heart of this amazing city with its many small shops where all kinds of goods often strange and unfamiliar ones. Are sold that the tourist will discover houses decorated with masterpieces of wood carved windows. And balconies as well as sanctuaries, temples and sacred ponds of all shape age and size. Here it is really fascinating to mix with the crowd that are selling, buying, bargaining, while others carry loads. All do their best not to be hit by cyclists and rickshaws.

As for the local people, they are completely indifferent towards the tourists, whether he is just looking around or shooting with his camera. Had the Nepalese one in their hand, they are likely to take as many pictures of the odd behaving tourists!

Ways to entry Kathmandu Durbar Square are: Asan / Indra Chock or New Road or Basantapur (the hippie street). The palace of the living goddess, the statues of Garuda, Kasthmandap (destroyed by earth quake of 2015, April 25), the old royal palace, the Neo Greek corner, the three main temples, the strange windows, Hanumandhoka Square, the Seto Bhairab, Kalo Bhairab, the Hanuman statue, golden gate and coronation courtyard are the most impressive and remarkable with its legends, arts and crafts.