Atithi Devo Bhava
Discovering the Spirit of Nepal

The Ancient Capital Awaits

Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital, sits in a valley at an altitude of 1,400 metres, cradled by the Himalayan foothills. It is a city where medieval temple squares stand beside bustling bazaars, where the scent of incense mingles with the aroma of freshly steamed momos, and where the distant white peaks remind you that you are at the threshold of the world's rooftop.

Living History & Architecture

Kathmandu Valley is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a concentration of cultural wealth found nowhere else on earth. The Durbar Squares — Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur — are outdoor museums of Newari craftsmanship, featuring intricately carved wooden windows, gilded rooftops, and stone sculptures that date back to the 12th century and beyond.

• Hanuman Dhoka (Kathmandu Durbar Square) — once the royal palace, its 50+ temples and courtyards are a testament to the Malla kings' patronage of the arts.
• Patan Durbar Square — often called the city of fine arts, featuring Krishna Mandir built entirely of stone in the shikhara style.
• Bhaktapur — the best-preserved medieval town in the valley, famed for the 55-Window Palace and Nyatapola Temple.
• Kumari Ghar — residence of the living goddess Kumari, a pre-pubescent girl worshipped as a divine deity who occasionally appears at her ornate window for devotees and visitors alike.

Spiritual Harmonies

Nepal is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and home to some of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world. In Kathmandu, you will find Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas standing side by side — a living symbol of the valley's harmonious co-existence of faiths.

• Boudhanath Stupa — one of the largest stupas in the world, its all-seeing eyes gaze serenely in all four directions as pilgrims and monks circumambulate, spinning prayer wheels in a meditative ritual that continues day and night.
• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) — perched atop a hill 77 metres above the valley floor, this 2,500-year-old stupa offers a panoramic view of the entire Kathmandu Valley and is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus.
• Pashupatinath Temple — the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva, set along the banks of the Bagmati River. Witness the evening aarti (fire ceremony) for an unforgettable spiritual experience.

A Culinary Welcome

Nepali cuisine reflects the country's geography and diversity. From the highlands to the Terai plains, each region has its own flavours and techniques. In Kathmandu, you can feast on everything from simple mountain staples to sophisticated Newari feasts.

• Dal Bhat — the national dish: lentil soup poured over steamed rice, served with vegetable curry, pickles (achar), and sometimes meat. Comforting, hearty, and eaten twice daily by most Nepalis.
• Momos — steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, buffalo, or pork, served with a fiery tomato-sesame dipping sauce. A Kathmandu staple beloved by locals and visitors alike.
• Newari Cuisine — the indigenous food of the valley, rich in buffalo meat dishes, fermented ingredients, and beaten rice (chiura). Try Samay Baji — a traditional ceremonial plate — at a local Newari restaurant.
• Sel Roti — a ring-shaped sweet rice bread, crispy on the outside and soft inside, traditionally made during festivals but available year-round.
• Butter Tea (Suja) — a warming drink of tea brewed with yak butter and salt, a traditional Tibetan and highland Nepali beverage.

Quick Cultural Etiquette Guide

A little cultural awareness goes a long way in Nepal. Here are a few simple courtesies that will be warmly appreciated by your hosts:

Himalayan Moments & Valley Escapes

If time allows, the Kathmandu Valley and its surroundings offer experiences that will stay with you forever. Even a brief excursion can leave a lasting impression.

• Mountain Flight — a one-hour scenic flight along the Himalayan range brings you face-to-face with Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and dozens of other giants. Departing early morning from Kathmandu, these flights offer views that no photograph can fully capture.
• Nagarkot — just 32 km from Kathmandu, this hilltop retreat at 2,195 m rewards visitors with a sweeping 180-degree panorama of the Himalayan range. Arrive before sunrise for a transformative experience as the peaks turn golden in the early light.
• Dhulikhel — a charming hillside town 30 km east of Kathmandu, offering some of the finest mountain views in the valley, traditional Newari architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere far from the city bustle.
• Chandragiri Hills — accessible by cable car from the city's outskirts, offering panoramic Himalayan views and the historic Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple.

Take Home More Than Memories

Nepal's rich handicraft traditions mean that the city's shops and markets overflow with beautiful keepsakes — hand-knotted carpets, silver jewellery, singing bowls, thangka paintings, pashmina shawls, and wood carvings that reflect centuries of artisan skill. Thamel, Patan's Durbar Square area, and Asan Bazaar are the best places to explore.

Bargaining is expected and part of the shopping experience — always do so with a smile and good humour. Remember that your purchase directly supports local artisans and their families.