3 Night Kathmandu
Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is an enchanting city where the old and the new merge beautifully. The hub of Nepal's traditional culture and arts, Kathmandu is a beautiful place with historic, artistic and natural beauty. This city is a store house of temples and monuments because of its rich cultural past. Modern Kathmandu is a blend of all this and an eclectic nightlife with lots of shopping and happening casinos. Being the largest city of Nepal, it is very busy - at times, to the extent that you will almost become a part of its ethos.

Far from all the hustle and bustle, explore the real Nepal by visitng little hamlets around Kathmandu, where you can see the heart of this stunning country. Popular with adventure lovers, Kathmandu offers a range of activities to try your hands on - trekking and mountain climbing are just one of them. With so much to do and see, it is definitely a must-visit!

Places to see:
Pashupatinath Temple:
One of the most ancient Hindu temples, Pashupatinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on the banks of Bagmati River. It is significant as it holds seat of Lord Pashupatinath (Lord of the Animals). Lord Pashupatinath was the national deity of Nepal untill it became a secular country. Listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, the temple, ironically, allows only Hindus to enter the premises. Non-Hindu visitors can only have a look at the temple from the other side of Bagmati River.

Kathmandu Durbar Square:
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a complex consisting of many temples and is located opposite the old royal palace. Recognized as World Heritage Site, this temple complex boats of ancient architecture and craftsmanship.

Swayambhu Stupa:
Situated atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhu Stupa complex is highly revered in Nepal. Consisting of many stupas, shrines and temples, this complex can also enjoy breathtaking views of the city from this sight. Thanks to innumerable 'holy' monkeys in and around the complex, it is also called the Moneky Temple.

Buddha Stupa:
Buddha Stupa is one of the most revered sites for Tibetan Buddhism. It is considered a must-see when in Kathmandu.

Narayanhiti Palace Museum:
This museum was once a royal palace, which also houses foreign ministry of the Nepal government. The entrance fee is 500 NRS for foreigners.

Things to do
If you wish to take in the scenery and see the most renowned peaks in the Himalayan range, go for a Mountain Flight private plane tour. Join the late afternoon procession in Boudhanath when Tibetan devotees walk around the giant Stupa garlanded in prayer flags. And make it a point not to miss shopping for pashmina, temple bells, ethnic jewellery, hand-made paper, books, T-shirts and trekking gear.

Fast Facts
Main languages: Nepali, Newari, Bhojpuri and Maithali among others
When to go: September to December
What to pack: Light jackets, woolens, caps, socks and shoes. Layer your clothing rather carrying heavy warm clothes.
Local transport: Buses, taxis, autos, bikes, rickshaws
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Time Zone: UTC/GMT +5:45 hours

Traveller's Tips
Avoid walking alone late at night, beware of traffic, especially motorbikes, and use common sense when dealing with strangers, whether visitors or locals. Bargain to your heart's content while shopping, but remember it is a fairly poor country.10-0330-04