Temples and palaces, the sultry air and scent of incense, the bustle of the city, picturesque scenes and vibrant colors—all this describes Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Founded at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in a vast mountain valley, this city became the seat of the Malla royal dynasty in the Middle Ages. Until 1951, its White Gate was closed to foreigners. However, today Kathmandu is far from being an isolated world, and even sacred cows are forced to give way to the frantic traffic on the streets.
Entertainment and Attractions
Kathmandu’s appearance, cut off from the world by the Himalayas, has remained unchanged for centuries. Even today, after the devastating earthquake of 2015, its attractions include hundreds of ancient temples, shrines, and idol houses.
The heart of this ancient city is the Durbar Square. Although some sacred buildings have been destroyed, the palace of the living goddess Kumari remains virtually intact, with intricate carvings on its façade. Tourists and locals often gather at its walls, waiting for the moment when a little girl—the human incarnation of the goddess Taleju—appears from a window. She ventures outside only occasionally, remaining mostly within the palace. The Kumari is chosen from girls aged 3 to 5 according to strict criteria, and upon reaching maturity, returns to ordinary life, receiving a small allowance.
The entrance to the Royal Palace, located in the square, is guarded by the monkey god Hanuman. All Nepalese monarchs were crowned in this modest white building, and after the declaration of the republic, a museum was opened here, displaying coins and personal belongings of the last king.
The most impressive viewpoint in Kathmandu is the Swayambhunath monkey temple at the top of the hill. Apparently, it is because of this position that mantras recited here are twice as effective as anywhere else. The temple’s stupa, with a Buddha’s Eye on each of its four sides, is approximately 2,000 years old. Monkeys abound here, and on a clear day, the Himalayan peaks open up.
