There are several modes of transportation available to get to the Potala Palace. For foreign travelers, airplane service is always available; you can easily take a flight straight to the Lhasa Gonggar Airport, and from there, you can find a taxi service to the Potala Palace. A train service also runs from the Chinese mainland to Lhasa. You will also require a ticket to enter the Potala Palace site. Alternatively, the tour company will take care of it if you visit the Palace with them. The ticket price will be higher during peak season, which runs from April to November. Typically, a ticket for one person ranges from USD 15 to 30 depending on the season. The Palace is open from early morning until late afternoon, depending on conditions. The Potala Palace is easily reachable by road or air.
Best time to Visit
The Potala Palace is accessible to the public all year. However, the best time to visit this ancient Palace for a spectacular experience is in April and November. There will always be a sizable crowd in the vicinity of Potala Palace. It is an excellent time to visit if you enjoy crowds, the hustle and bustle, and the diversity of ceremonies. You may also visit in early July, when there will be a marvelous panorama of the surrounding environment and outstanding traditional Tibetan activities. You can also travel during the off-season, before July, if you desire a peaceful tour with fewer crowds.
The primary difficulty during Mardi Himal trekking is the weather and temperature.
The Mardi Himal Trek difficulty is commonly influenced by weather and temperature. Weather can be unpredictable while trekking. The temperatures ought to be stumbling trouble on your way to the mountaintop. So, before trekking this exhausting peak, ensure you understand the climate and local weather over the changing seasons.
During the winter, the standard surface temperature of Mardi Himal degrees drops from 10 to 15 degrees. The temperature falls through five levels as you climb 1000 meters higher, making you feel cold. In the meantime, the temperature might also plunge under zero at nightfall. In the Himalayan range, it is rarely hot.
During the winter, the entirety of the hillsides of Mardi Himal might also be encased in ice. Likewise, this creates a stumbling block during traveling. The climate in the area is changeable, and snowstorms may want to occur. The temperature in the vicinity may be insufferable early in the morning and late at night.
Similarly, the vicinity receives sizeable to heavy rainfall throughout the monsoon season, in June, July, and August. The pathways connecting to the Mardi Himal are muddy and treacherous due to the storm and rain.
Trekking on slick, rainy mountains can be a miserable experience. Similarly, winter and monsoon trekking to Mardi Himal may not be a trouble if you respect adventures and challenges. You will cherish the Mardi Himal Trek in such months just as much.
The subject of the Mardi Himal trek is similarly exacerbated via altitude sickness. Altitude illness is becoming extraordinarily common on the Mardi Himal trek. However, it is a prerequisite. Nevertheless, altitude ailment is prevalent at greater heights, and it can be an extreme difficulty when trekking. Moreover, you will attain 4500 meters or above throughout the Mardi Himal trek. As a consequence, altitude ailment is a normal phenomenon on the trek
Altitude illness manifests itself in several ways, consisting of nausea and diarrhea. Headaches and loss of breath are also traditional aspects effects. There is no omission of any of the indicators. Altitude ailment is hazardous and can even be fatal.
Furthermore, the best way to cope with this difficulty is to drink adequate water and let your body return to normal. Alcohol is now not accepted all through this stroll since it promotes dehydration. Keep a bottle of water on you always, and take your time.
Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty – Accommodation
Tea homes are moderately priced at some point in treks due to the rate of lodges and motels in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Pre-booking can assist you in achieving the appropriate deals, even if discovering all lodgings is no longer an issue. This is additionally a vital issue in evaluating the challenge of the Mardi Himal Trek.
Further, cafes and eating places are conveniently accessible and grant diverse dining picks as you travel from one location. You might not have to fear ingredients or slumbering along the route because the trail is so effortlessly accessible.
You can additionally save money by using bringing your water bottle. You can use the pills to detoxify your water and retail cash on tea shop water refills. You’ll have to pack your snacks and meals throughout the trip. It is less complicated to purchase because meals are tremendously inexpensive in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Proper Training and Exercises before trekking
The Mardi Himal trek’s uphill section is complex. Likewise, you can avoid the Mardi Himal Trek difficulty with extensive ability and preparation. Before trekking, you must dedicate a lot of preparation and exercise. Similarly, if you are now not used to hiking, you may additionally battle to cope with the altitude and daily strolling hours. The hike consists of a few ascents, deceleration, and off-trail hiking.
Walking constantly for 7 hours or extra in a single day can be relatively strenuous and exhausting. So, if you are simply a beginner, make sure you do some suitable warm-up strategies before starting your trek. Likewise, make the Mardi Himal walk more on hand and enlarge your bodily energy by participating in several outside activities.
The best time to visit the village of Tengboche falls in spring and autumn when the daytime temperature usually ranges around 14 to 16°C with clear visibility. The summer season usually accompanies higher humidity and rainfall, while in winter, you may face cold day temperatures between 4 and 6 degrees.
Main Attraction
Apart from the ancient and mythical Tengboche Monastery, the village also offers excellent views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and more. The village community is also promoting eco-tourism to attract more tourists. Most Sherpa residents are turned into guest houses and lodges with tiny but comfortable tea houses where you can delight your taste buds with authentic Nepalese dishes.
Lukla to Tengboche
An unforgettable domestic flight with breathtaking views from Kathmandu will take you to Lukla. From Lukla, a short hike will take you to Namche Bazaar, the heart of the Everest Region. The trek then continues for 5 hours, passing through rhododendron forests to a beautiful yet small village of Monjo to Phortse, where you can submerge yourself in the Sherpa culture. You also have a fantastic view of the Ama Dablam.
The path continues along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing the river on a beautiful suspension bridge. Another five-hour hike, and you will reach the charming village.
Such Purja graduated from the Dental Academy and became a prosperous professional dentist. She has also done some studies on the two businesses. She also assisted with various dental and medical services, greatly benefiting many people in Nepal and Britain. She started several businesses with her husband, Nirmal Purja. After the setup, Suchi runs his professional companies while being a supportive wife.
Similarly, Suchi Purja is listed as a director for Mountain Philanthropy Limited. On the other hand, she actively participates in her husband’s mountaineering. She provides administrative support and helps him in the background. Additionally, by creating various opportunities for young individuals to showcase their trekking skills, her husband and Suchi have positively impacted the Nepali trekking sector.
Short information on Nims Purja Dai
Nirmal Purja (Nims Purja), also known as Nimsdai, is one of the best mountaineers in the world and a former British Gorkha soldier. He was a well-known soldier who served 16 years in the British Army as an expert in chilly warfare before relinquishing his post to pursue his love of mountaineering.
Nims Purja Dai began mountaineering before 2007. His real story-based Netflix documentary “Nothing is Impossible” about conquering 14 peaks helped him become one of the outstanding famous people in the mountaineering field. In the shadow of Nepal’s Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains, Nims Purja Dai was born in July 1983. He was the fourth kid then; his mother was the farmer tending the land in the Himalayas while his father was in the military.
Interview on British TV Channel
Project Possible 14/7
Nims Purja Dai has spent most of his time outside since childhood. He first relaxes in the shadow of the gigantic Himalayas before taking sluggish, upward steps toward the north and exerting himself to trek across the mountains without oxygen and other necessary equipment. Along with other foreign trekkers, he also participated in Project Possible 14/7, which included ascending 14 additional summits in seven months.
The summits of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Everest, Cho Oyu, Nanga Parbat, and Ghasebrum, split into first, second, and third phases were also achieved. Nirmal Purja also breaks several mountain-climbing records in both 2019 to 2020.
He set a record for speedily ascending mountains higher than 8000 meters in the summer. In addition, he breaks his previous record of five days by ascending Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse in under 48 hours. As he attempted Project Possible 14/7 and his photo went viral in the New York Times, May 2019 was the prime day of his life.
Similarly, the second noteworthy event was his wintertime ascent of Mount K2. Together with other international trekkers, the arduous journey was highly adventurous for him.
Mountaineering Records
Nirmal is known as the first mountaineer to ascend all 14 summits higher than 8000 meters. Additionally, he is the holder of seven other world records. Below are a few of the records he broke in his peak time.
Trekking Most 8000-meter mountains in the Spring season without a hitch. Trekking over a total of six mountains.
Trekking Most 8000-meter mountains in the Summer season. Trekking over a total of 5 mountains.
Conquering three of the world’s highest mountains in a brief period. (K2, Kanchenjunga and Everest)
Conquering five of the world’s highest mountains in the very fastest way. (Lhotse, Makalu, K2, Everest and Kanchenjunga)
Speedily ascending the lower 8000m mountains of Gasherbrum I and II.
Beating the previous record after ascending the highest mountain, with a height of 8000 meters (Lhotse, Makalu, and Everest in 48 hours, beating the previous record of 5 days)
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Everest Base Camp in March is most favorable and popular among ordinary travelers and climbing enthusiasts. It is also suitable for those who wish to devour the beautiful and generous Himalayan views once in their life. But this trek can also be unsuitable for some for the following reasons:
If you are not accustomed to simple hardships of life, such as the inability to shower, surf the Internet, or drink your favorite coffee, the trek is not for you. However, you may be surprised, but the less you wash on a hike, the better. There is less chance of catching a cold, which is hazardous at a height. You can always use wet wipes, though. So, it is wise not to postpone your trek to Everest Base Camp for such minor trifles in March.
Photo Beautiful Woman Traveler Backpacker Mountains Way
If you want solitude, don’t like to meet strangers, or wish to remain to yourself, this trip is not for you. March welcomes the serene climate of spring, subsiding low and chilling temperatures of the winter. Most travelers like to enjoy their trips during this season. So you won’t be alone on the way; you will always meet and see unfamiliar faces. Traveling alone may seem thrilling, but it also comes with risks. So trekking in March will always give you company. You can share the magic of nature with others and socialize.
The other drawback of trekking to Everest Base Camp in March is the high cost. It is the most popular season for welcoming travelers to Nepal, so everything has to be booked in advance. The fare needed will also be higher, including the tour package, the permits to trek, accommodation, and meal expenses.
If you don’t love snow, the trip is not for you. There is considerable snow in the mountains and on the passes, even in March. On the one hand, this can be a minus because snow makes it difficult to move, and some passes become difficult to access. Also, high-altitude lakes can remain under the shackles of ice. On the other hand, snow-capped mountains are more interesting to walk, and they look fabulous and atmospheric.
In the End
Trekking to the Everest base camp in March is one of the most beautiful tracks in the world. And if you gain the strength and patience to prepare for it properly, you will enjoy everything you see and experience.
Kathmandu Durbar Square is now closed to traffic, making the square very pleasant to visit. In addition to the numerous buildings on the central square, the hustle and bustle of the people are exciting. Many believers make sacrifices to the respective gods in Durbar Square, hoping their prayers will be answered. Such offerings are to be respected due to the deep-rooted beliefs of the local people, and these offerings give you a deeper insight into the traditions of the land. The artistically decorated palaces and pagodas are just as fascinating as the significance associated with them.
The most essential and must-visit destinations of Kathmandu Durbar Square are:
1 – Hanuman Dhoka- The Royal Palace with Hanuman, the Monkey God
Right at the entry gate of the old royal palace in Durbar Square is an imposing statue of the monkey god Lord Hanuman. The faith in Lord Hanuman is evident in the numerous devotees who circle this statue counter-clockwise several times – a spectacle you will surely see when you visit Durbar Square. Two stone lions combined with the golden gate flanked the entrance, creating an imposing sight.
After passing through the golden gate, you will see the Narasingha statue, which depicts the Hindu god Vishnu in a bitter fight against a demon. In this case, Vishnu has been represented as a half lion and half man. Also worth seeing is the Audience Hall of the Kings, formerly used for various dance and theatre performances. The old royal palace on Durbar Square is one of Kathmandu’s most important historical buildings.
Basantapur Durbar Square
2 – Taleju Bhawani Temple
Taleju Bhawani temple, situated at a height of 35 meters, is open to the public once a year during the Mahanawami of the Dashain festival. King Mahendra Malla laid the temple’s foundation, while King Pratap Malla completed its construction.
According to many legends, the temple has the structure of a Yantra ( a mystical illustration containing magical powers). Goddess Taleju appeared disguised as a bee at the temple’s opening ceremony.
Former royals deeply believed in the goddess; not even the kings were allowed to build their palaces or structures around or near the temple.
During the 6th century, the Malla kings worshipped the Taleju goddess as their main deity. After the Malla dynasty, the Shah took over Kathmandu’s rule. Still, they also adopted the goddess as their royal deity to prove and cement their legitimacy on the throne. During the 2015 Nepal earthquake, most structures around the temple were destroyed except for the temple. People believe it is a miracle of the goddess. The temple has remained standing, albeit with some cracks.
The massive statue of stone lions guards the main gate to the temple. The main temple of Taleju consists of a golden statue of the goddess with ten arms with adjacent shrines to both Taleju Bhawani and Kumari, the living goddess of Nepal. There are 12 min temples around the main temple of Taleju and four other temples just below the main one.
Taleju Bhabani Temple
3 – Kumari Ghar (Residence of Goddess Kumari)
At the intersection of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Basantapur Square, you can see the three-storied red-bricked building with marvelous wood carvings. The building is the abode of Kumari- the earthly incarnation and only living goddess until she reverts to an ordinary girl upon reaching puberty. The word Kumari means Virgin. This goddess has the most significant influence on the entire pantheon of Kathmandu.
Kumari Ghar became an essential part of these places in 1757. The artisans decorated the home of the little goddess with intricate carvings. The inside of the building is named Kumari Chowk. It is a square-shaped enclosure surrounded by three floors of magnanimously carved wooden balconies – probably the most mystical courtyard in Nepal.
The passage to the courtyard of the Kumari temple is decorated with a casing with an intricately carved visor. From two sides, the palace is guarded by stone lions; they are also the identification mark of the palace.
Kumari Ghar is of great socio-religious importance and is built in the style of a Buddhist monastery. No other temple can exemplify Nepal’s living, breathing, and timeless religion, a wild mixture of Hinduism, Buddhism, and local traditions.
The Kumari Ghar’s window is where the living goddess KUMARI resides!
4 – Maju Dega
The other steps of this temple dedicated to Shiva are a pleasant place to while away some time, especially at sunrise and sunset. The nine-level basement is one of the city’s most popular meeting places.
From here, you can observe the exciting activity of the itinerant fruit and vegetable vendors, the comings and goings of taxis and rickshaws, and the comings and goings of tourists. The large three-roofed temple offers a majestic view of Durbar Square and the capital’s houses. The temple dates back to 1960, and inside you will find a lingam, a phallic symbol of Shiva.
5 – Jagannath temple
The infrastructure of Jagannath temple is an outstanding example of a multi-storied temple from the Malla Dynasty. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, one of the embodiments of the Hindu god Vishnu.
The temple is near the well-known Gopinath Mandir temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The construction of the Jagannath temple was concluded in 1562.
The two-story temple is erected on a three-tiered base. At the four corners of the base are four mini two-level temples, each also built in the standard Nepalese pagoda style. The inner section of the temple, known as Garba Griha, contains a stone image of Chatur Murti Vishnu. The stone image is a rare sculpture that combines four figures in one.
The roof braces have prominent erotic carvings with a robust sexual focus. The Jagannath temple is especially popular among tourists for this, and you can see a lot of onlookers around, flattering themselves with the hope of seeing the coveted sculptural images.
6 – Kasthamandap
Kasthamandap, which means shelter in a tree in Nepalese, is now one of Nepal’s most famous Hindu temples. Previously, merchants and wanderers who followed from Tibet to India used this three-level pagoda as their shelter.
Wandering people spent winter here anticipating spring and snowmelt on dangerous mountain passes. Later, in the second half of the 14th century, at the request of the king from the Shah dynasty, a shrine was erected in Kasthamandapa – a statue of Guru Gorakhnath. The shelter has turned into a temple visited by thousands of pilgrims. First, they are attracted by another local attraction – the footprints of the Guru Gorakhnath, who lived as a hermit.
The Kasthamandap temple was believed to be made from a single sal tree trunk, characterized by increased strength and resistance to environmental influences.
Kasthamandap
7 – Stone inscription
On the outer side of the white wall of the palace, facing the Vishnu temple is a long stone inscription in fifteen languages dedicated to the goddess Kalika. The inscription was made in 1664 at the behest of King Pratap Malla, known for his linguistic abilities. A Nepalese legend states that when someone manages to decipher all fifteen languages, milk will flow from the cinnamon in the center of the wall.
These are some of the strong heritage of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Apart from these legendary sites, the area has many more attractions, including temples, museums, malls, and local markets. Words are not sufficient to explain the attractions and beauty. So why wait? Pack your backpacks and fly to this culturally endowed site of Nepal.
8 – Gaddi Baithak
The Gaddi Baithak, constructed in neoclassical style during the rule of Prime Minister Chandra Shamsher, was used to give certificates of status to foreign guests. Numerous coronation ceremonies were held in this vital ceremony hall during the monarchy in the country.
Its false ceiling is made from metal. It is said that the glass used in the lamps hanging on the ceiling was brought from Belgium. On the right side of the Gaddi Baithak are pictures of 11 generations of Shah Dynasty kings. As you enter the central passage, you will see an artistic door made from wood gifted by the Burmese government.
The ground floor of this meeting hall is decorated with materials and details describing the transformation of the Nepal government from a monarch to a republic setting. The guns used by King Prithvi Narayan Shah during the country’s unification are also kept on this floor. Overall, the meeting hall is history that represents the revolution the country has seen over many years.
Gaddi Baithak in Kathmandu Durbar Square UNESCO World Heritage site
Accommodation near Kathmandu Durbar Square
1 – Durbar Square Backpackers Inn
Durbar Square Backpackers Inn is located in Kathmandu, 400 meters from Hanuman Dhoka Palace and Durbar Square. It features a bar, a restaurant, a shared lounge, and a 24-hour front desk.
Free Wi-Fi service is available throughout the hotel property. The Inn offers family rooms, with services including laundry, dry cleaning, ATM, press, car rental, safe, and concierge.
2 – Green House Lodge
Green House Lodge is located in Kathmandu, 200 meters from Hanuman Dhoka. It offers free Wi-Fi, a tour desk, ticket service, family rooms, and a terrace. The services available in the hotel include a 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, and 24-hour front desk.
3 – Little Nepal Inn
A 4-minute walk from Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu, Little Nepal Inn is 400 meters from Kathmandu Durbar Square and 1.6 km from Swayambhu Stupa. It offers a garden, a terrace, and air-conditioned rooms. The tour desk at the Inn can help you organize any excursion you are planning. You can also order a transfer to make your trip more convenient.
Sport enthusiast guests will appreciate the fitness center of the Inn. A business center is provided for participants in business meetings. For the convenience of the guests with disabilities, the elevator is situated in the hotel, taking you to the upper floors. Laundry, dry cleaning, ATM, press, and safe are also at guests’ disposal.
4 – Harati Manor Inn
Located in Kathmandu, this homestead is 100 meters from Durbar Square, a 1-minute walk from Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and 1.7 km from Swoyambhunath Temple Centre. It has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and a bar.
5 – World Heritage Hotel and Apartments
World Heritage Hotel Apartments is located in the famous Durbar Square, 2 km from Thamel and the Royal Palace. It offers a free airport shuttle and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Suitable for a budget holiday, World Heritage Hotel and Apartments offers laundry, dry cleaning, ironing, press, car rental, safe deposit box, and concierge.
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Patan Durbar Square is just 4 km from Kathmandu, separated by the Bagmati river. Remember that Patan Durbar square is a no-vehicle zone, so any transport mode you choose leaves you next to the white arc of Patan Dhoka. From there, you have to follow the widest street through the perpendicular alleys to the right; you will see the high roofs of the Patan Durbar Square temples.
You can easily visit Patan Durbar square by:
Taxi: A taxi can leave you next to the white arc of Patan Dhoka in 15 minutes. The cost depends on your negotiation skills, but the taxi fare can be around NPR 500 to 600.
Public Bus: Regular buses and microbuses pass from Kathmandu to Patan and vice versa. You can take a bus from Kantipath or Ratna Park that will take you straight to Patan Dhoka. The bus fare is NPR 40-50, but this mode of transportation will be challenging for you, especially during office hours from 9 am to 5 pm.
Walk: Walking will be the wisest route if you are up for some sightseeing in Kathmandu and Patan. However, the road can be dusty and crowdy. So try to take a day trip to Patan on foot during weekends when there is less traffic.
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Entrance Fee to Patan Durbar Square
You have to pay NPR 1000 per person to enter Patan Durbar Square. If you are SAARC nation national, the entry fare is NPR 250 and NPR 30 for Nepalese. The money collected is used for the conservation and preservation of the area with the upliftment of people’s economy.
Attractions
Patan Durbar Square used to be the holy abode of Patan Kings. Today, it has become a mystical confluence of palace buildings, picturesque courtyards, and graceful pagodas. It represents the beautiful examples of Newar art and culture that reached its peak during the reign of the Malla and Licchavi kings.
Here are the major attractions of Patan Durbar Square:
Royal Palace
The royal palace is rightfully situated in the center of the durbar complex. Different parts of the palace buildings appeared in the 14th century, while its central part was completed later, in the 17th-18th centuries.
The palace was constructed during the reign of Siddhinarsingh Malla, Srinivas Malla, and Vishnu Malla. However, most architecture was destroyed when king Prithvi Narayan Shah attacked the city. During the 1934 earthquake, most of the significant architectural buildings were destroyed. But it still stood as the brightest architectural masterpiece of the valley.
Keshav Narayan Chowk
The Golden Gate leads to the northern courtyard of the complex, built in 1734, above which rises a golden Torana depicting Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, and Kumar. Above the Torana is a golden window from which, during important events, the King used to address the townspeople.
One restored part of Keshav Narayan Chowk houses the Patan Museum, which is popular with visitors. Its galleries contain collections of bronze and copper items, Hindu and Buddhist deities figurines, and much more.
Opposite Keshav Narayan Chowka is Manga Hiti (tap), a water source famous for its three impressive stone-carved heads of Makaras (mythical ocean creatures), from whose mouths water flows.
Keshav Narayan Chowk
Mul Chowk
This complex’s central courtyard is the largest and primeval of the three main courtyards of the square (Keshav Narayan Chowka, Mul Chowka, and Sundari Chowka). Built by Siddhinarsingha Malla and damaged by fire in 1662, Srinivasa Malla restored the chowk in 1665.
It was restored in 1665-66 by Srinivasa Malla. Two stone lion figurines guard the entrance to the courtyard, and in its center stands a small gilded Bidya temple.
There are three palace temples around Mul Chowk: Chyasim Deval, Hari Shankar, and Degutale. The five-storied pagoda-styled temple Degutale, located on the northeast side of the square, is crowned with three octagonal roofs.
Taleju Temple, or Taleju Bhavan, built by Siddhinarsingha Malla in 1640, is located north of Mul Chowk. At its entrance are statues of the goddess Ganga sitting on a turtle and the goddess Yamuna on a crocodile.
Opposite Mul Chowk and north of the Krishna temple is a large bell held by chains of two mighty pillars. King Vishnu Malla installed it in 1736. Previously, there was another bell on this site; in 1703, it was moved to the Rato Mahendranath temple.
Mul Chowk, Patan Durbar Square
Sundari Chowk
To the south of Mul Chowk is the smallest courtyard of the complex – Sundari Chowk with its royal bath – Tusha Hiti. The walls of Tusha Hiti are decorated with elegant stone carvings and a fountain completely covered with figurines of deities carved from stone.
A pair of snakes at the top edge guards the approach to the stairs. Opposite Vishnu and his wife Lakshmi sit on Garuda.
Behind Sundari Chowk is the Royal Garden with a water reservoir – Kamal Pokhari. At the Sundari Chowk entrance are Hanuman, Narasingha, and Ganesha statues.
Sundari Chowk – Inside Patan Durbar Square
Rudra Varna Mahavira Temple
Rudra Varna Mahavira Temple, also known as Uku Bahal, lies a few steps from the Mahaboudha Temple. It contains magnificent images and statues in stone, metal, and wood. A paved courtyard surrounds the two-story building with a gilded roof. It is believed that in former times kings were crowned here.
It is densely crowded with statues of deities, figures of animals, and Buddhist attributes – Dorje (vajra), ceremonial bells, and so on. The Rudra Varna Mahavir dates back to the era of 19th century. But there is an assumption that it is one of the oldest monasteries in the valley, founded during the rule of the Licchavis in the 5th-6th centuries.
Golden Temple/ Kwa Bahal
This unique Buddhist monastery is known to the public as Hiranya Varna or Suvarna Mahavira. It is located north side of Durbar Square. According to legend, it was constructed in the 12th century, although the first mention of its extant dates back to 1409.
Kwa Bahal is a large rectangular building with three roofs and a copper-gold facade. In the altar room (photo and video filming are prohibited), there is a beautiful statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. On the far right side of the durbar square courtyard, you can see the statue of Vajrasattva, dressed in a silver and gold robe.
In the courtyard’s center stands a small, richly adorned temple with a golden roof, its shape resembling a bell (gajur). Inside the old temple is a small stupa (chaitya), according to the monks – self-manifested. In the four courtyard corners are figures of four Lokeshvaras and four monkeys in the southern part – the deity of Tara.
Golden Temple
Bhimsen Temple
Bhimsen temple is positioned on the north side of Patan durbar square. It is a temple dedicated to Bhim – one of the Pandava brothers, the hero of the Mahabharata.
Vishwanath (Shiva) Temple
Opposite the Bhimasen temple is the recently restored, elaborately decorated, dedicated to the Holder of the Trident Vishwanath Temple, built in 1627. At its entrance are two prominent stone figures of elephants – the protectors of the sanctuary, and next to them – a statue of the bull Nandi, the eternal companion of Mahadeva. As in many other places dedicated to Lord Shiva, a large lingam is installed here.
Temple of Uma Maheshwar
To the north of the square stands a small inconspicuous temple-pagoda of Uma Maheshwar. In this temple, you can see a magnificent carved black stone deity of Shiva and Parvati, known as Uma Maheshwar. The deity statue depicts a seated cross-legged Shiva and his shakti (wife) seductively leaning against him.
Bishwakarma Temple
The southern border of the Patan durbar Square is dedicated to Bishwakarma. He is known as the gods’ architect and artisans’ patron. The facade of the temple is covered with embossed copper sheets. From the nearby workshops comes the rhythmic clatter of the hammers of working chasers.
Temple of Mahaboudha or Mahabuddha
To the east of Patan’s Durbar Square is the Mahaboudha Temple, an exquisite piece of Buddhist architecture. It is a copy of the temple in Bodhgaya, where Shakyamuni Buddha attained Enlightenment under the bodhi tree.
This architectural masterpiece was created in the 14th century. It can be seen that hundreds of Buddha images are engraved on the walls of the temple. So it is also known as the temple of thousands of Buddhas.
It is truly a masterpiece of Nepalese architecture, hidden behind the walls of the city buildings of Patan. Built-in the shikhara style, it is covered with terracotta tiles from the base to the dome, with a bas-relief of the Buddha on each of them.
Kumbheshwar Temple
Kumbheshwar Temple is one of the three temples of Kathmandu valley with five roofs. The temple was constructed in 1392, dominating the outskirt streets, and is the oldest in Patan. The building of the temple stands out with impressive proportions and elegant wood carvings.
In front of the temple is a bull Nandi statue, indicating that the temple is allocated to Lord Shiva. On the temple platform is two reservoirs, the waters of which, according to legend, are connected to the sacred lake Gosainkund, located far to the north of the valley. During the days of Janai Purnima in August, crowds of pilgrims flock here to take a bath.
Behind a black lacquered latticework, at the southeastern edge of the courtyard, is the significant Bhairav Temple, which worships the life-size wood carving of the deity Bhairav, the incarnation of Shiva. Next to it is the temple of Baglamukhi (Parvati).
Kumbheshwar Temple – nearby Patan Durbar Square
Temple of Rato (Red) Machindranath
The Temple of the Red Machindranath, built in 1673, is located southwest of Patan Durbar Square. Rato Machindranath is the deity of rain and abundance. Buddhists revere him as Avalokiteshvara; for Hindus, he is an avatar of Shiva.
Four lions guard four carved temple passages. Various animals: peacocks, horses, buffaloes, lions, elephants, and snakes rise on free-standing columns in front of the north side of the temple. The temple roof is supported by props, each depicting Avalokiteshvara standing over the figures of sinners subjected to various punishments in hell.
Jagat Narayan Temple
The Jagat Narayan Temple, devoted to Lord Vishnu, perches on the Bagmati River bank in Sankhamul. It is a two-level temple built in the pagoda style of red brick. It is considered the oldest on the square, dating back to 1565. The entry to the temple, standing on a three-stage brick plinth, is guarded by two stone lion figurines. The temple is known for the wooden carvings on the roof supports depicting various gods and erotic scenes.
Here is a Garuda metal statue, mounted on a stone megalith, surrounded by several images of Ganesha and Hanuman.
Ashok Stupas
Four stupas were built around Patan’s perimeter by Emperor Ashoka’s order in 250 BC- the heyday of Buddhism in the Kathmandu valley. The northern stupa is called Ibahi thura, the eastern one is called Teta Thura, the western stupa is known as Pucho Thura, and the southern stupa is called Laban Thura.
Tibetan Refugee Camp
The Tibetan refugee camp lies on the periphery of Patan are a popular tourist attraction. Many shops sell handmade wool carpets and handicrafts – wooden bowls, prayer wheels, and jewelry. The camp also consists of a stupa and several temples.
Krishna Mandir
It is the most impressive building in the Royal Complex area. Built entirely of Indian-style stone by King Siddhinarsingh Malla in 1637, this temple is strikingly different from neighboring Newar pagoda temples of red brick and wood. It is one of the main attractions of Patan Durbar Square.
The second and third floors, from which temple musicians often play the melodies, form a line of three miniature pavilions. At the top of each of them rises a spire in the style of a shikhara.
Krishna is the incarnation of the god Vishnu; for this reason, in front of the temple, on top of the column, sits on his knees Garuda, the companion and faithful servant of Vishnu.
Stone carvings along the columns recount the events described in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, ancient sacred tales. Explanations in the Newari language accompany these beautiful friezes.
The Krishna Mandir is outstanding on the Krishna Janmashtami holiday – the birthday of Krishna, annually celebrated in Bhadra (August-September). Only Hindus are authorized to enter the temple.
Krishna Temple
Patan Industrial Estate
It is located in Lagankhel nearby Patan Durbar Square, where handicrafts are practiced – wood carving, metalwork, handmade wool carpet production, and thangka painting. There are shopping arcades where you can buy any goods manufactured here.
Column of King Yoganarendra Malla
Opposite the entrance to the royal palace stands a high tetrahedral column erected in 1700, the column of Yoganarendra Malla. The column top is decorated with the King’s statue sitting on a lotus with his wife and daughter.
The king cobra, a symbol of wisdom, protects the golden figure of the King, who bowed his knee and opened his hood. The head of the wife, sitting on the King’s left hand, is covered by Sheshnag (a many-headed snake) and is closely associated with Vishnu and his wife Lakshmi in the Puranas.
On the head of the king cobra is a figure of a small bird whose role needs to be clarified. However, according to the legend, while the bird is there, the King is always a welcome guest in the palace. Therefore, in anticipation of the King’s return, the doors and windows of the palace always remain open.
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Lord Shiva is worshiped in this cave, and many visitors gather here during festivals like Chaite Dashain, Balachaturdashi, and Mahashivratri. You can find structures made from rare minerals and elements by wandering underground. All caves around the world always look mysterious, but Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is extraordinary because it also has a religious background.
It is believed that visiting the cave will fulfill the desire for freedom from suffering; the childless couple is blessed with their offspring and provides rescue in disaster. Although it is a concept to promote the cave from a religious point of view, it seems appropriate to open it for scientific study.
Accommodation is not a problem here, as Kushma Bazar has comfortable hotels, lodges, and restaurants.
The peaceful atmosphere of the cave soothes one’s senses and allows one to reflect for a while. It is an excellent place to spend some quiet time amidst the usual hustle and bustle of the city.
Best time to visit Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Gupteshwor Cave is open to the public all year round. The cave’s climate does not depend on external weather conditions, so the temperature inside is always equally comfortable, around 8-10 °C.
The busiest season is summer. Many have holidays and vacations during this period, so if you prefer to avoid the crowd, choose other months.
On the other hand, Nepal is a beautiful country, and you will undoubtedly want to see its other attractions. It is most convenient to do this in the warm season, which means that the best time to visit is late spring (March to late June) or early autumn (September to November). The weather is already ideal for traveling around Nepal.
View from the bottom of Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Attractions
Cosmic, supernatural shapes made of stones inside the cave tempt the mind. The naturally formed sculptures are the figures of Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Sheshnag, Sumeru Parvat, Bhagwati Bahan, Kalash, Kamdhenu, Garuda Devta, Govardhan Parvat, Krishna Leela deities. Seeing many such forms of God, even an atheist forgets his atheism.
There are also small and big temples like Radhakrishna Temple, Bhajan Mandap, Sattal with a two-storied slope, and Mahavir Temple on the hill. The cave is home to hundreds of bats.
On the descent, there are many images of scenes from the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata. Drill columns adorn various kinds of snakes.
There’s also a mechanical cow, and it’s shed in the cave. The cow is called Kamdhenu, which is made of fiber.
The main attraction of the cave is Devi’s fall, known as Patalo Chhanga in Nepali, which means an underground waterfall as it falls and disappears into the Gupteshwor cave. As these both attractions are very near to Pokhara City, you can schedule a trip during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek.
It is excellent and humid in the cave itself, and it is delightful after the exhausting closeness of the city. The tourist part of the cave ends with an impressive gap glowing from the sun and Devi’s fall. From the bottom of the cave, it looks much more spectacular.
Devi’s Fall, or Davis Falls, is a fantastic waterfall lying about two kilometers southwest of Pokhara Airport on the highway to Tansen. Waterfalls are magnificent, but Devi’s waterfall is unique from all other waterfalls as the water is lost in the earth; you cannot see its end.
Lake Phewa is Davis Falls’s source; the lake water flows the Pardi stream, carrying its waters directly to the gorge, into which it falls in cascades, forming Devi’s Falls.
Locally known as Patale Chango, which means Patal ko Chhango (fall of Hell), water falls into the karst funnel from a height of about 100 m. The bottom is not visible from above.
If you are planning to visit Pokhara or stay on Pokhara during ABC Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek, this is the one sightseeing you shouldn’t miss.
Patale Chhango
Why is it called Devi’s Fall?
According to a legend, in July 1961, the Swiss couple was swimming in Lake Phewa. Due to the unexpected flood in the lake, a wife named Davy has swept away into the fall’s water. The rescue team could find the body only after three days in Furse River. The despairing husband suggested the name of the fall should be attributed to his late wife to pay homage to her. Thus the name Devi falls.
Now, the trail is equipped with metal handrails and fences for safety. During the dry season, you can go down into the Gupteshwor cave and look at the waterfall from below.
Davis Falls, where the Pardi River disappears into the Gupteshwor cave. The scenario is especially impressive during the monsoon season when the amount and current of the water are n full swing. The misty white cloud formed by the waterfall is astounding and the waterfall sound plunging down the gorge is deafening.
The falling water forms a tunnel in the cave 150 m extended and 30 m wide below ground level. When it reaches Lake Phewa, the tunnel size increases to 1000 m. From there, the water then converges into the Furse River.
However, during winter, the water volume decreases. The bizarre rock formation, which used to be underwater, came to the surface.
Devi’s Waterfalls view from Gupteshwor Cave.
Why visit Davis Falls?
Devi’s Fall is situated in Chorepatan of Pokhara along the Siddhartha Highway. The water released from the dam of Lake Phewa makes its way to Seti River following the routes of Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave.
It has always been the focal attraction of Pokhara. Some may come to admire the beauty, while others see the tragic place where the incident occurred.
Another place you can admire, along with Davis Falls, is the Gupteshwor cave, where you can see the naturally formed deity structures, but the main attraction is the upright Shiva Lingam.
The outlying area of Davis Falls is perfect for a family picnic, for there is an Amusement park for children and adults. The wishing Pool in Devi’s Fall is another attraction where believers toss a coin to fulfill their wishes.
How do you get to Davis Falls?
Devi’s Fall is close to Pokhara center (2 km), so you can take a taxi, rent a cycle, or walk.
Entrance fee
You can visit Devi’s Fall every day from 6 am to 6 pm, and the entry ticket to the fall costs you NPR 100 per person.
Best time to Visit
We often suggest you avoid monsoon season for any exploration in Nepal. But to watch Devi’s fall in full glory, you must come here during the monsoon season when the waterfall is in full swing.
Mixed this place with Pokhara sightseeing
You can mix Devi’s Fall with your Pokhara Day Tour. This is just opposite the Gupteshwor cave and on the way to World Peace Pagoda Pokhara and the newly constructed Shiva Temple. Just half an hour is enough to visit Davis Falls. You can take photographs here of different ethnic dresses of Nepalese people.
