Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Nepal’s oldest temples. Comprised of Hindu shrines and Buddhist stupas, this unique complex has stood the test of time.
It was built by the Malla dynasty, who ruled until late 15th century when their territory was divided among three kingdoms and this palace became their residence.
Gorkha Durbar
Gorkha Durbar is one of Nepal’s premier historical locations with breathtaking mountain views. The grand palace situated atop its hill displays some of the best architectural designs on display and was constructed as part of a military strategy to defend royal families against enemy armies.
The palace complex includes a palace museum, temples and fort. The latter comprises of an exquisite Newari-style building featuring courtyard, intricately carved woodwork and large windows to further add charm.
Durbar houses a shrine dedicated to Kalika, where daily sacrifices are offered up as offerings to her. Visitors often arrive carrying goats or chickens trembling from within before leaving with headless carcasses. Just beneath the palace lies a cave once home to Sage Gorkhanath that Hindus regard as sacred; during Baishak Day this cave serves as a site of worship as well.
Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple is an important Hindu place of worship dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is also known as Mukti Kshetra, or “The Place of Salvation.” Legend states that visiting this temple and taking a dip in its sacred water will cleanse away your sins and lead to ultimate redemption and salvation.
This temple can be found within Annapurna Conservation Area and attracts pilgrims from all around the globe, being one of the 108 Divya Desams of Hindu faith. Additionally, you can experience unique culture at work within medieval villages surrounding Muktinath Valley.
Other structures within Muktinath’s complex that hold religious significance include Narsingh Gompa, which houses an icon of Avalokitesvara – the compassionate deity embodied by Dalai Lama himself – while its main temple boasts architectural influences from both India and Tibet.
Nuwakot Durbar
Nuwakot Palace area, famous since King Prithvi Narayan Shah began his unification campaign here, is an ancient palace area with seven-storied pavilion that exudes architectural excellence as well as exquisite woodwork.
At this site you’ll also find various temples and shrines. One such temple is Malika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati and holding great significance among Hindus. With its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, Malika Temple makes an excellent pilgrimage destination.
However, the 17th-century palace is facing an uncertain future and could soon collapse, with multiple sections of its roof and wooden support pillars already becoming disrepair. Locals fear it could soon vanish completely as Chinese Academy of Cultural Heritage specialists work on reconstructing it – they hope to complete these works by next year.
Lumbini
Lumbini Garden and Temple Complex in Nepal is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites. According to legend, Siddharth Gautama was born here around 563 BCE when Queen Mayadevi, wife of King Suddhodana, experienced labor pains. As they traveled through Lumbini with their son Siddharth Gautama was delivered under a Sal tree within its grounds.
In the 3rd century BC, Emperor Ashoka of India made an imperial visit to Lumbini and marked this site by erecting a stone pillar with an inscription, now known as Ashoka Pillar and recognized for its significant archeological find status.
Lumbini has evolved into an expansive complex filled with Buddhist shrines, ancient temple relics, meditation centers, and tranquil natural areas. Additionally, Lumbini features the iconic Bodhi tree which marks where Buddha attained enlightenment; making this spiritual haven an outstanding blend of Hindu shrines and Buddhist stupas coexisting peacefully within one space.
