History of Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu Valley consists of the three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, which during the rule of the Malla kings from the 12th to the 18th centuries were independent states. The three cities together listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Culture), house seven UNESCO World Heritage holy places. The valley that reminds the golden era in Nepal’s architecture is also home to hundreds of other wonderful monuments, artistic temples sculptures and magnificent art.

  Legend behind the valley

There is a legend behind the valley that the valley was once a prehistoric lake ringed by lush green mountains. As per mythology in this pristine lake there lived giant serpents until one fine day, saint Manjushree, the Bodhisatva, raised a mighty sword and in one fell swoop, cut open a side of the mountain at a place now known as Chobar. This very act of the saint resulted in flowing out of the voluminous waters of the lake and leaving behind a fertile valley which is capable of supporting large urban settlements over the millennia. The earliest rulers of the Kathmandu valley were the Gopala and Kirati dynasties and were followed by the Licchavi (300-879 A.D.), under whom flourished trade and crafts.

  Why Valley looks extraordinary

The valley looks extraordinary because of the metaphorical palaces, the monumental stupas and the superbly crafted pagodas which are the indication of the artistic genius of the Newar craftsmen, the original inhabitants of the valley, whose skills were championed by the Malla kings and appreciated even by the Mongol rulers of 18th century China.

Kathmandu which is the largest city of Nepal is the political as well as cultural capital of the country. Kathmandu is a city which has a wonderful mix of both traditional and the latest technological advances. However, it is the prides of the past that attracts the visitor whose eyes are fix on a gracefully carved wooden window frame, an 18th century bronze sculpture or the spiritually uplifting stupas. In the last decade, Kathmandu has seen rapid growth like any other big city, but despite the hustle and bustle so typical of metropolitan cities, its people remain as refreshingly friendly as ever. In spite of so many changes and development Kathmandu has maintained its ancient traditions and is blessed by a Living Goddess and is enriched by endless ceremonial processions and events that take to the streets every now and then with mass of devotees seeking blessings. The religious festivals steeped in myth are quite a demonstration with chariot marches and masked dancers often possessed by the spirits of deities.

  Climate of Kathmandu, Nepal

As the Kathmandu Valley is a warm, temperate zone so it has a mild climate most of the year, and the Kathmandu city which is situated at an altitude of 4,297 feet (1,310m), has a mild, subtropical climate.