Nepal is a small Himalayan country in South Asia located between India and China. Nepal is a holy place enriched with cultures and traditions.  Nepal has been following ancient traditions, which hold a rich and charismatic cultural heritage that spans centuries. Located in the foundation of the Himalayas, Nepal has been a common garden of several ethnic groups and has experienced different rulers. At present, Nepal follows a Federal Democratic system with three layers of government. The unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism can experience in Nepal only. Today, I am sharing the entire cultural heritage of Nepal within this blog article.  During the journey inside the heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley, one can understand the prosperous era of art and culture, history and architecture, and the practice of spirituality that makes Nepal a sacred land.  Today, I am covering a few world Heritage sites listed by UNESCO that help us to explore the hidden treasure of culture and history.

Lumbini: The Birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a holy place that is popular worldwide. One of the world heritage sites listed by UNESCO attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the globe. Explore the tranquil surroundings of Lumbini, and visit different monasteries and temples that pay homage to the life and teachings of Buddhism. 

Pashupatinath Temple: A homage to the god of Destroyer: Lord Shiva

Pashupatinath is a national deity of Nepal. One of the holiest sites of Hindus around the world. The art and architecture, splendid rituals, interesting myths, cremation ceremonies, and vibrant festivals make this area livelier and more spiritual. 

Kathmandu Durbar Square is located in the heart of the Capital city and beholding the architectural wonders from the 7th Century. The legendary Kasthamandap was built in the 7th century and there are several myths associated with this monument. It was said that the entire building was constructed from the wood of a single tree. it was demolished by the 2015 A.D. Earthquake which was recently reconstructed. The living goddess Kumari, the stunning Taleju temple, a nine-story palace, and several temples, and courtyards make this place more vibrant and livelier.

Patan Durbar Square is considered a Living Museum of Newari Art where you can experience and observe outstanding Newari architecture and craftsmanship. Patan Museum is a historical and cultural school for any serious learner of Newari art and culture. 

The untouched traditions and cultures make Bhaktapur unique among the three cities in the Valley. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is considered the city of Devotees where you can spellbind by the architecture of 55 window palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the intricate woodcarvings that depict ancient tales and myths.

 

Nepal is following Hinduism and Buddhism parallelly and you can experience this during the journey to Hindu and Buddhist sites in the Valley and outside the Valley.  Swoyambhunath Stupa and Bouddhanath Stupa are the biggest spiritual centers for Buddhists.  You can experience this during your visit to Swoyambhunath, both Hindu and Buddhist worship in the same temple by different names. Bouddhanath is the center of Tibetan Buddhism.  

There are almost everyday festivals that occur in Kathmandu Valley, the Newari culture is so vibrant that they have festivals throughout the year. A few festivals are Dashain, Tihar (Festival of light), Mahashivaratri (Homage to Lord Shiva), Holi (festival of color), Buddha Jayanti, Rato Machhindranath Jatra (longest Chariot pulling festival of Kathmandu valley), Gai Jatra (Cow festival), and Indra Jatra. 

These assets are invaluable testaments of Nepali cultural heritage which have been preserved as it is and practiced to date. To explore and feel the thrill of ancient times, one can visit Kathmandu Valley heritage sites. To know more about Kathmandu Valley and its typical traditional practices, follow my blog as it is published on the site of Pokalde Adventure Tours and Travel. Explore Newari culture, and food, enjoy festivals, and learn spirituality during your stay in Nepal.