Tours & Excursions in Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley
 A vibrant valley of countless temples & shrines, where living Gods and Goddesses wander on the streets even until today. This is the city where Nepalese art and culture was developed and refined. Temple and palaces were built and rebuilt. The valley is situated at an altitude of 1336m above sea level and covers an area of 218 sq. miles. The rich tapestry of the cultural heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu Valley, the home of the ancient and sophisticated Newari culture. The Newars are the indigenous inhabitants of the Valley and the creators of the splendid civilization of its three cities - Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The skillfully built temples and palaces, delicately-engraved stones and metal images, carved wooden columns and pillars, and the history laden shrines and Chaityas of these three historical cities stand as paradigm of the Newar's artistic achievements. The salient spots worthwhile touring in Kathmandu valley are the Swoyambhu Nath Stupa, Pashupati Nath Temple, Bauddha Nath Stupa, Budhanilkantha temple, Changu Narayan temple, Dakshin Kali temple, Old Royal Palaces (Durbar Squares) of the Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur city, etc. etc.
Changu Narayan
Situated at the end of a long ridge that runs well into the Valley, it is said to have been built by king Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the valley.
Farpig / Dashinkali Temple
This is popular village amidst a lovely setting by the hillside. It is situated at the southwest corner of the valley. Inhabited mostly by the Newars and Tamangs both of whom are Buddhist by faith, the village is dotted with numerous Mahayana (Lamaism) monasteries.
The temple of Dakshin Kali lies in the south side of Farping village. Kali is a blood thirsty Hindu Goddess. So she is a kali of South. A ritual worship attached by animal sacrifice would be common in this temple. The important days for religious pilgrimage include Tuesday and Saturdays.
Nagarkot
This is a lovely hill-station lying at an altitude of 7133 feet (approx. 2200m) above the sea level and is not more than 32 kilometers direct east of Kathmandu City. It is a year round holiday resort rich in chlorophyll forestations. As an evergreen area, the pines appear spectacularly beautiful. The panorama of the major peaks belonging to the eastern Himalayas including Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest) can be viewed from here. The resort stands best at sun-rise and sun-set.
Dhulikhel
This is an ancient hill town. It is situated 30 Kms east of Kathmandu City on the side of Arniko Highway leading to the Tibetan border. From here one can own a complete panoramic view of the snowy flanks ranging from east to west.
Namo Bauddha
Namo Bauddha lies in the hillside hamlet of eastern part of Kathmandu valley. It can be reached through two routes, thus forming an interesting hilly circuit for trekkers and adventurers. Most popular route is through Dhulikhel hill station. From Dhulikhel it is about 12 Kms to reach there.
Panauti
It is a thriving Newari village with beautiful temples and interesting old houses. The drive passes through the beautiful countryside. The small beautiful town of Panauti is relatively untouched but where festivals preserving the precious tradition of the indigenous Newars are held. It possesses a number of interesting temples, one of which perhaps to be the oldest in Nepal. Besides, it is famous for magnificent woodcarvings.
Kakani
Situated at an elevation of 6500 feet above the sea level and 25 kms. away from Kathmandu City is hilly Kakani, famous for plenty of terraced fields. Short treks are made possible. The fabulous holiday area of Kakani features enchanting attractions ranging from the beautiful alpine scenery to the magnificent Himalayan panorama, especially of the Ganesh Himal.
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