Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
UNESCO Kathmandu
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1979
Size of heritage: 167 ha
- Buffer zone: 70 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 85,309°
Latitude: 27,704°
Summary
The cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley is illustrated by seven groups of monuments and buildings which display the full range of historic and artistic achievements for which the Kathmandu Valley is world famous. The seven include the Durbar Squares of Hanuman Dhoka (Kathmandu), Patan and Bhaktapur, the Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu and Bauddhanath and the Hindu temples of Pashupati and Changu Narayan.
Location on Map
Show bigger map on Openstreetmap
Introduction
Kathmandu Valley, located in Nepal, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich cultural and historical significance. This valley, encompassing the three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, religious sites, and traditional art forms. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, the Kathmandu Valley is a living testament to the diverse cultural heritage of Nepal.
History
The Kathmandu Valley has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the first millennium BCE. The valley flourished as a center of trade and culture along the ancient trade routes between India and Tibet. The Licchavi dynasty, which ruled the valley from the 4th to the 9th century, played a crucial role in shaping the region's cultural and architectural landscape.
During the Malla period (13th to 18th century), the valley witnessed a golden age of art, architecture, and religious fervor. The Malla kings, known for their patronage of the arts, commissioned the construction of numerous palaces, temples, and public squares. This period saw the rise of distinctive Newar architecture, characterized by intricately carved wooden windows, pagoda-style temples, and stone sculptures.
Current State
Despite the devastating earthquake in 2015, which caused significant damage to many heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, the region has shown remarkable resilience in preserving its cultural heritage. Efforts have been made to restore and reconstruct the damaged structures, ensuring the continuity of the valley's unique architectural legacy.
Today, the Kathmandu Valley is a vibrant hub of cultural activities, attracting tourists from around the world. The valley's UNESCO World Heritage status has helped raise awareness about the importance of preserving its cultural heritage and has facilitated international support for restoration projects.
The valley is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the iconic Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. These sites showcase the valley's religious, artistic, and architectural heritage, providing visitors with a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural tapestry.
Furthermore, the Kathmandu Valley is renowned for its vibrant festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Indra Jatra, which showcase traditional music, dance, and religious rituals. These festivals provide an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the valley's living cultural traditions.
Conclusion
The Kathmandu Valley, with its ancient cities, architectural wonders, and cultural traditions, is a testament to the rich heritage of Nepal. Despite the challenges it has faced, the valley continues to thrive as a center of cultural and religious significance. The preservation and promotion of the Kathmandu Valley as a UNESCO World Heritage site ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from its unique cultural legacy.
Hotels and places to stay
Hotel Yak & Yeti
Gokarna Forest Resort
Royal Astoria Hotel
Summit Hotel
Hotel Marshyangdi
Hotel Bliss International
Hotel Everest Nepal
Trekkers' Home
Hotel Tayoma
Kathmandu Madhuban Guest House
Videos from the area
Porter in Kathmandu
A freelance-Porter after a break on the Durbar Square in Kathmandu. Probably carying cloth.
Kathmandu / Nepal - Freak Street - Bodnath (3D stereo version)
3D taxi ride through Kathmandu / Nepal from Freak Street (Jhocchen) to Bodnath (Bouddha) using a GoPro HD 3D camera.
Kathmandu Durbar square
To know palaces to visit in Nepal and Travel trips visit www.dntt.com.np find us at facebook: www.facebook.com/dntt.com.np Twitter: https://twitter.com/nepaltraveltips Google+:https://plus.google....
view around hanumandhoka durbar(Monkeyman gate palace) kathmnadu
It is the slight scene observed in and around hanuman dhoka durbar (monkeyman gate palace) kathmandu durbar square at new year morning.
2008-10-03 Plaza Durbar de Katmandú काठमांडौ, Nepal नेपाल
Estamos en el corazón de Katmandú, en la Plaza Durbar, lugar declarado Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO, a los pies de la columna del rey Pratap Malla. Suena la gran campana, y las...
Everest Trek 2009 Teaser (HD, 720p)
More info: http://everesttrek2009.com/ A week in Kathmandu and two weeks of trekking to Mt. Everest Base Camp. Not only the worlds highest photo workshop, but a truly life-changing event for...
Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners. 
Tribhuvan International AirportMedium airport - 3 mi (6 km)
Mountain AirportSmall airport - 21 mi (34 km)
Langtang AirportSmall airport - 38 mi (62 km)
Simara AirportSmall airport - 43 mi (69 km)
Taplejung AirportSmall airport - 46 mi (75 km)
Ramechhap AirportSmall airport - 51 mi (82 km)
Bharatpur AirportSmall airport - 54 mi (87 km)
Gorkha AirportSmall airport - 56 mi (90 km)
Bigger and popular cities in the wider vicinity are these:
- Bhaktapur
Camgyai- Chame
- Chongdui
- Jomsom
- Kathmandu
- Khudi
- Lamjung
- Nagarkot
- Nawal
- Pisang
- Pokhara
- Ramechhap
- Zham
- Zongga
- Zuobude
These are some smaller cities that might be interesting. They are all rather close.