There are seven structures in Nepal, known as World Heritage Sites, for the great value they possess and the history they embody. This will be a guide to the seven World Heritage Sites in Nepal and how to see them.
The Kathmandu Valley in Nepal is known to be home to many ancient temples, religious sites of the world, and ancient structures, which are all still functioning and being used today. These sites are considered precious, as they have existed over hundreds of years, and seven of them have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Due to this, the structures are being protected by UNESCO in Nepal. These structures and temples all hold within them a history that has been preserved over centuries. Out of the seven, the four religious sites are still being used today for religious festivities in Nepal.
Why You Should Visit World Heritage Sites
Nepal is famous for its natural beauty and scenery, but the World Heritage Sites are sights you must be sure to see. There are seven separate buildings, temples, attractions, and monuments in the Kathmandu Valley site of UNESCO. With time, the number of sites in Nepal could increase because more sites are being submitted to UNESCO for verification.
The Seven Sites And What Makes Them So Special
The seven heritage sites in the location are Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Patan, Bhaktapur, and Changunarayan. All seven sites embody beauty, religions preserved over time, and great architecture that visitors marvel at every year.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath stupa is the oldest in Nepal, located in the center of the Kathmandu Valley. The greatest fascination of this site is the extraordinary prayer wheels, the manis, colorful flags, and most especially, the soothing and calm atmosphere. However, one of the most fascinating sights here is the magnificent eyes of Buddha printed on a huge stupa. The eyes of Buddha are so captivating that many are drawn back for a second look. There's also a forest around this site, where you can find many monkeys. This has given Swayambhunath the famous nickname "monkey temple."
Boudhanath Stupa
This site is known as the world's largest stupa. Not only is it the largest one, but astounding classical houses also surround it. During your visit to Boudhanath, you are sure to find cozy little souvenir shops, where you can buy gifts for loved ones. In addition, there are restaurants and many café options, giving you the chance to sit back and relax.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
The Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of three squares in the Kathmandu Valley. This site is truly iconic, as it is held to a high extent by Buddhists and Hindus. This site is important for their rituals, such as holy ceremonies, royal events, and more. If you find yourself here, there are a multitude of beautiful things to behold. Your camera will be constantly clicking when you see the fountains, ponds, courtyards, and ancient monuments.
Pashupatinath Temple
This globally renowned Hindu temple is right at the bank of the Bagmati River and is prohibited to non-Hindus. Yes, you read that right. Only Hindus are allowed inside this particular temple. The Hindu god Shiva is worshipped at this temple and it is home to the Shivaratri ceremony. It's a religious site and does have restrictions on who can access it; however, this doesn't stop you from viewing it from the outside. It's still a beautiful site and one for the records.
Patan Durbar Square
This historical site, which holds artifacts from ancient times, has been a museum for years. Unfortunately, the site was affected by an earthquake a couple of years ago and is still undergoing some renovations. But this won't stop you from visiting the Krishna Mandir temple in the Square.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur happens to be an ancient city, holding the remnants of an ancient civilization. Visiting Bhaktapur is sure to be a thrill with one of the oldest historical monuments, souvenir shops, restaurants, coffee shops for relaxation, and much more. It is also the old palace of the ancient Bhaktapur kingdom, which makes it all the more unique.
Changunarayan Temple
This two-story temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is a sacred place. It is said to be one of the oldest ancient buildings in the city and has survived destruction in two different years, centuries apart, once in 1702 and again during an earthquake in 2015. Thus, the temple dates back to the fourth century and is considered one of the oldest Hindu temples.
Nepal Is Surrounded By Beauty, And We Should All See It
The city of Nepal is truly blessed with ancient and historical sites, both architectural and religious. All of the UNESCO declared World Heritage Sites hold a special part in the history of this region’s people, ancient kingdoms, and civilizations. Ongoing preservation of this site allows us to glimpse into the past and appreciate what humanity has achieved over time.
The World Heritage Sites, especially the temples, hold strong sentimental values for followers and should be protected at all costs. The Hindu temples that have sustained possible destruction and are still standing, continue to be a space where believers can connect to the gods they pray to.
Nepal is home to many more sites that you could visit, and some might even be added to UNESCO's updated list of World Heritage Sites.