Kathmandu, Nepal
The capital of Nepal lies in a hilly region near the confluence of the Baghmati and Vishnumati rivers, at an elevation of 4,344 feet (1,324 metres) above sea level.
As of the 2021 Nepal census, there were 845,767 inhabitants living in 105,649 households and approximately 4 million people in its surrounding agglomeration.
Founded in 723 by Raja Gunakamadeva, its early name was Manju-Patan. The present name refers to a wooden temple (kath, “wood”; mandir, “temple” or “edifice”) said to have been built from the wood of a single tree by Raja Lachmina Singh in 1596. A building, supposedly the original, still stands in the central square and is used for the accommodation of sadhus (holy men). Kathmandu served as the seat of the ruling Shah family of the Gurkha people from 1768 to 2008.
The city has become the country’s most important business and commercial centre through the efforts of its Newar merchant families. In the 1970s the construction of new roads and the expansion of air service were centred upon Kathmandu, making it the hub of the national transportation system, which for centuries was limited to footpaths. Many of the townspeople are engaged in agriculture, the Newar preferring to live in the city. Tribhuvan University was chartered in 1959.
Kathmandu’s two main streets contrast strongly to the older sectors of narrow streets and brick houses adorned with carved doors and windows. Destruction caused by an earthquake in 1934 resulted in the construction of many modern-style buildings. The city’s most notable building is the old palace of the Malla kings, which includes Taleju temple (1549), built by Raja Mahindra Malla. The palace’s main gate is guarded by a figure of the god Hanuman; in a small, adjoining square are several pagoda-style temples.
The Origin Of City From a Lake
According to some mythological stories and books, Kathmandu is a lake turned into a city. An interesting thing is geologists also approved the fact is true. As per geologists and stories, Kathmandu valley was surrounded by the Himalayan mountain ranges and a huge lake with lotuses was there. Today that lake is Kathmandu city.
Greet With Namaste
In Kathmandu, people greet others by “Namaste”. They show great respect to others by joining their palms and bow saying Namaste. It means they are respecting the “God in you”. The actual translation of Namaste is “I salute the God in you”. From their respect and humbleness, we can learn a lot.
"Newaris” The Descendants Of Kathmandu
Today Kathmandu is home to different religious and races but the human existence in the valley was started with the Newari community. They were the original descendants of Kathmandu valley nearly from 2 millennium period. Newaris are the actual descendants of Kathmandu.
Name For The World Heritage Sites
In 1979, Kathmandu was declared as World Heritage Site. The interesting thing is Kathmandu is home to a large number of world heritage sites. No place in the world contains as many as Kathmandu. Out of 10 World Heritage Sites of Nepal 7 belongs to Kathmandu only. With this, we can understand Kathmandu is the name for World Heritage Sites.
A Destination for Rich Cultural and Heritage Values
Kathmandu is a perfect destination to experience rich cultural and heritage values. The city flourished with an uncountable number of temples and historic monuments make us witness the past glory of Kathmandu. In addition to this, different religions living under one roof in Kathmandu is a good set example of “Unity in Diversity”.
A Fusion Of Different Architectures
Kathmandu is well-known for its Durbar Squares. In total, there are three Durbar Squares namely Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. All these durbar squares are the finest places to witness mind-blowing architectural marvels in the form of court halls, palaces, temples, idols, water fountains, etc. Durbar Squares are like epitomes of the bygone era of Kathmandu kingdoms.
Untouched By Foreign Invasions
The greatness of Kathmandu is it was never ruled by other foreign countries. Even though India and China were ruled by Britishers, neighboring Nepal remained untouched by foreign invasions. Very few nations come under this list. Among them Kathmandu is one.
Ranked As The 17th Highest Capital
Kathmandu was ranked as the 17th highest capital in the world at an altitude of 4539ft above sea level.
Uniqueness In Flag Dimensions
Nepal flag seems to be different from all other countries. It consists of two triangles, one with sun and another with moon prints on them. What these two triangles convey means, they are the symbols of Himalayan mountains and dominant religions (Hinduism and Buddhism) of the country.
As A Trade Center
In ancient days, Kathmandu is a great trade center between India and Tibet. Due to the reason, the valley civilized with numerous constructions and you can observe remnants of the buildings used by traders.
Pashupatinath Temple: The Wonder Of Kathmandu
Pashupatinath Temple is the famous Hindu temple in Kathmandu. It was dedicated to Lord Pashupati (means Lord of Animals) familiarly known as Lord Shiva. This temple is a great wonder of Kathmandu with stunning and massive architectures. But only Hindus are allowed to enter and the remaining all have to enjoy from the banks of River Bagmati.
Holds Slowest Internet Speed
After visiting Kathmandu also, if you want to live in the internet world means, it’s a little bit difficult task. Because here internet speed is very low with a maximum speed of 256kbps. Due to its geographical conditions, the internet is weak. So you can happily enjoy the lovely environment around you without living on the phone for 24 hours.
Freak Street
It’s a famous street in Kathmandu, where a large number of hippies are used to live in the 1960s and 70s.
Name Used To Escape
Once Kathmandu’s name was used by Bob Seger to escape from media and business. In 1975, he wrote an ode on Kathmandu. So if anyone wants to find him it will be far away to reach.
2015: A Nightmare For Kathmandu
The earthquake of Kathmandu in 2015 is an unforgettable bitter experience for all. Most of the major historic monuments were wiped out in this disaster. However, some monuments remained strong till today. But it is massive damage that happened to the lives of Kathmandu people.
Respect Their Customs
Every place will have their customs and beliefs and we have to respect them. The main thing to remember when you are in Kathmandu is never touch anything with your feet because it is a very offensive thing.
Text from: Christina Whiting
Source: Behind The Mask – Our Stories
