The cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley is illustrated by seven groups of monuments and beliefs that reflect diversity, cultural tolerance, and respect, and showcase historical and artistic masterpieces for which the Kathmandu Valley is world-famous. The seven world heritage sites of cultural importance include the Durbar (Palace) Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur (these are also known as the City of Joy, City of Craft, and City of the Devotee), built by former kings; the Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu ('Self-Existent One') and Kasti Chaitya-Baudha (the largest); and the Hindu temples of Pashupatinath (Lord Shiva, Lord of all) and Changu Narayan (Dou temple).

The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, is the political, commercial, and cultural hub of Nepal. Kathmandu is an exotic and fascinating showcase of rich culture, art, and tradition. The Kathmandu Valley is an oval bowl surrounded by forested hills with terraced agriculture. As a remarkable legend says, the valley was once a big lake until the Bodhisattva Manjushree raised his wisdom sword to slice a passage through the valley walls, draining the water and creating the first settlements.

Newahs, the multi-ethnic people who settled in this remote Himalayan valley over the past two millennia, are the indigenous inhabitants and the creators of the valley’s distinct language and cultural practices. Over the years, Kathmandu was the centre of ancient trade route connections between the Indian subcontinent, the Tibetan autonomous region, and China. Traders and pilgrims from the neighbouring countries passed through the Kathmandu Valley. With its splendid beauty and natural environment, Kathmandu soon became home to most of Nepal’s ethnic groups, blending with the Newah language and culture.

Besides these world heritage sites, the Kathmandu Valley has several tangible and intangible monuments, buildings, and structures that provide exceptional testimony to the traditional civilisation of the Kathmandu Valley. These tangible and intangible heritages, knowledge, craft, art, and architecture are now sources of inspiration, knowledge centres, and wonders that attract tourists, researchers, and wanderers worldwide to witness and learn. Pilgrimage, Scenic beauty, Culture, and Way of Life!