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World heritage sight of nepal

Of the 812 World Heritage Site, four are located in Nepal, namely the Kathmandu Valley, Sagarmatha National Park, Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, birthplace of Lord Buddha. Major monument zones in the Kathmandu Valley are Swoyambhunath, Boudhanath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changunarayan, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square.

World Heritage Sites (Cultural):
Kathmandu Valley
Lumbini

World Heritage Sites (Natural):
Chitwan National Park
Sagarmatha National Park

Sourc: Nepal Tourism Board
Video of world heritage sight of Nepal

source SAARC Tourism.org

The small mountain kingdom of Nepal is blessed with such astonishing and unique sites that within the area of 140,800 sq km Nepal holds a considerably high number of places recongnised by UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organisation) as 'World Heritage Sites'. There are altogether ten World Heritage Sites in Nepal, seven of which are in Kathmandu itself. The list includes both natural as well as cultural sites.
Cultural Sites
The cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley is illustrated by seven groups of monuments and buildings which display the full range of historic and artistic achievements for which the Kathmandu Valley is world famous. The seven sites include the Durbar Squares of Hanuman Dhoka (Kathmandu), Patan and Bhaktapur, the Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu and Bauddhanath, and the Hindu temples of Pashupati and Changu Narayan.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Changu Narayan Temple

Swayambhunatha Stupa

Pashupatinath Temple

Lumbini

Boudhanath Stupa
Natural Sites
Nepal's national parks included in the World Heritage Sites List are exceptional areas with dramatic mountains, glaciers, deep valleys and undisturbed vestiges of the 'Terai' region. Several rare species, such as the snow leopard, lesser panda, single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros and the Bengal tiger are found in these park.

 Sagarmatha national park

 Chitwan national park

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The World Heritage List includes 830 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value.These include 644 cultural, 162 natural and 24 mixed properties. Out of these 10 sites are from Nepal itself. Seven out of these are cultural and two natural.

Some Nepal Sites/Properties submitted on the Tentative List of UNESCO
» The early medieval architectural complex of Panauti (1996)
» Tilaurakot, the archaeological remains of ancient Shakya Kingdom (1996)
» Cave architecture of Muktinath Valley of Mustang (1996)
» The medieval palace complex of Gorkha (1996)
» Ramagrama, the relic stupa of Lord Buddha (1996)
» Khokana, the vernacular village and its mustard-oil seed industrial heritage (1996)

A Cluster of Temples and Palaces

Listed as one of the eight Cultural World Heritage site by UNESCO, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a cluster of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards and streets that date back to the 12th and 18th centuries. The square is known to be the social, religious and urban focal point of the Capital City.

The Palace Complex was the royal Nepalese residence until the 19th century and is the site of important ceremonies, such as the coronation of the Nepalese monarch. The palace is decorated with elaborately-carved wooden windows and panels an. It houses the King Tribhuwan Memorial Museum and the Mahendra Museum.

Fast Facts

Location	Kathmandu
Significance	UNESCO World Heritage Site
UNESCO Category	Cultural
Built In	16th and 17th centuries
Major Attractions	Taleju Temple and Hanuman Dhoka

Major Attractions
Taleju Temple
The temple is a famous Hindu and Jain religious site. The three-tiered temple is the first to be erected with more than two roofs and raised on a tall stepped platform. It is said that the mandir was built in the shape of a yantra on the advice of the Taleju Goddess herself and that she appeared to the King at the dedication ceremony disguised as a bee.

Mahendreshvara Temple
The simple yet beautiful temple was built by King Mahendra Malla and is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva in the form of Pashupati. The temple was destroyed in a 1934 earthquake and rebuilt thereafter. The temple is a memorial to its founder.

Jagannath Temple
The Jagannath Temple is recognized as the finest of the group near Hanuman Dhoka. Exquisite wood-carvings embellish the doors, windows and roof struts, depicting a panoply of gods from the Hindu pantheon. Originally dedicated to Vishnu the shrine was later re-dedicated to Jagannath.

Dequtale Temple
The temple was built by Shivasimha Malla honoring the Mallas' family deity, Degutale. It resembles Taleju's shrine but with a tower-like base in place of the stepped platform. The worship of Degutale has its origins in a nature cult, the images being pieces of rock which the Newaris set up and worshipped.

Hanuman Dhoka
Palace facade turns at right angles between the Degutale Temple and the Taleju Mandir. This way is created Hanuman Dhoka (Hanuman is a monkey god). Hanuman idol placed in the dhoka has been anointed with mustard oil and vermilion through the centuries.

Nasal Chowk
Nasal Chowk takes its name from the little statue of the dancing Krishna in the shrine on the east side of the court. In Malla times the podium in the center of the court was used for dancing displays. The Shah kings chose to be crowned in Nasal Chowk, a tradition which continues today.

Mul Chowk
As the occasional abode of the goddess Taleju, the court is barred to visitors, though it is often possible to peep in through the gate and have a look at the exquisite beauty of the palace. The Chowk is opened to Hindus once a year when, on the ninth day of the Dasain Festival, hundreds of buffaloes and goats are sacrificed to the goddess.

Bhandarkal
Bhandarkal is a botanical garden created by King Pratap Mall in the mid 17th century. With its diverse flora, Bhandarkal is a treat for nature lovers and ecologists. The garden has been named after a seven-storied palace that possesses a statue of the Sleeping Vishnu, Jalashayana Narayan.

Vilar Temple
Between the Lalitpur and Basantpur Towers can be seen the magnificently carved façade of the three-storied Vilas Mandir, of a richness truly befitting a Temple of Luxury.

Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple
The three storied temple has the figure of Garuda placed in its front and incarnations of Lord Vishnu within the temple. It was built by Prithvi Bendra Malla in 1680.

Shiva Temple
The Shiva Temple in Darbar Square is a replica of the Jaisi Deval and was built by Riddhi Lakshmi in 1690.

Shiv Parvati Temple
The long low building on the northern side of Durbar Square contains the beautiful shrines of Shiva and Parvati. This somewhat unusual building is believed to date from the time of Bahadur Shah. It is probably a reconstruction, the stepped platform on which it stands being considerably older than the temple itself.

Manju Deval
Dedicated to Shiva the large three-storied Manju Deval on its unusually high stepped base seems to dominate Durbar Square. It was built in 1692 by the mother of Bhupatindra Malla of Bhaktapur. Inside the temple there is a Shiva lingam. The small shikhara (temple tower in the North Indian style) at the foot of the steps honors Kam Dev, Shiva's shakti.

Kumari Bahal
The house of the Living Goddess, the Kumari Bahal looks like the monastery that was constructed in 1757 by Jaya Prakash Malla. Inside it lives the young girl who is selected to be the town's living goddess, until she reaches her first puberty and reverts to being a normal mortal.

Kasthamandapa
Kasthamandap or house of wood is the building which gave Kathmandu its name. Legend narrates that the whole building is constructed from a Single Sal tree. At first it was a community hall where local people gathered for important ceremonies but later it was converted to a Temple of Gorakhnath. The image of Gorakhnath glitters at the center of the building.

Ashok Binayak Shrine
The Ashok Binayak Shrine is the principle shrine of Lord Ganesha in the Kathmandu Valley. The stone image of Lord Ganesha stands beneath a golden replica of the Ashok tree which once shaded the shrine and eventually gave it its name.

Simha Sattal
Simla Sattal is located at the southern end of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. The residential style temple contains the Garuda Narayan figure, strange looking effigies and a little shrine of Harikrishna.

The Ancient Square

Pantan durbar square
Patan Durbar Square complex, situated in the center of Patan city, also known as Lalitpur, houses the residence of the former Patan royal family. Patan Square and its surroundings are good specimen of ancient Newari architecture. There are three main courtyards in the palace: Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Mul Chowk, the oldest one, is at the centre of Patan square.

Several multi-sized and multi-styled temples occupy the western part of the complex. Main among these are Krishna Temple, Bhimsen Temple and the Golden Temple of Hiranya Varna.

Fast Facts

Location	Kathmandu Valley
Importance	UNESCO world heritage site
UNESCO Category	cultural
Major Attractions	» Krishna temple with 21 golden pinnacles » Tusahity royal bath

Chowks
Mul Chowk
This is the most famous and one of the largest courtyards among three main chowks. Bidya Temple is located at the center of the courtyard and the Taleju temples stand around the courtyard.

Sundari Chowk
Sundari Chowk is to the south of the Mul Chowk with its sunken tank known as Tusha Hiti Mul Chowk & Taleju Temple.

Keshav Narayan Chowk
Keshav Narayan Chowk is towards the northern part. Dominating Degutale temple is next to it. It is the site of the earliest Malla palace in Patan. The Chowk sits on the older foundations of a Buddhist monastery.

Places To Visit
Krishna Temple
This temple of red stone, dedicated to Hindu Lord Krishna was erected in the 17th century. The temple is considered to be the first one to be constructed in Shikara architecture. Thanks to this attribute, it holds a commanding position in the durbar square. The elegant shikhara-style temple is ranked as one of the gems of Durbar Square. The temple is compared with sacred Mount Meru, which is abode of the god Shiva according to Hindu scriptures.

Mahaboudha
Buddhist temple Mahaboudha, which is made of clay bricks, lies to the east of the Durbar Square. Hundereds of Buddha images are engraved in the bricks. The temple is known for its fine terra cota work.

Kumbheshwor
The five-storied pagoda-style Lord Siva temple was constructed by King Jayasthiti Malla. Inside the temple is a natural spring whose source, is said to be the famous glacial lake of Gosainkunda. The golden work was added later in 1422 A.D. One the festival of Janai Purnima, ritual bathing takes place and a fair is also held.

Jagat narayan Temple
Jagatnarayan temple is a tall shikhara style temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Red bricks are used for the construction of the temple. The temple also holds a fine metal statue of Garuda, Ganesh and Hanuman, all related to Hindu religion and mythology.

Rudra Varna Mahavihar
This Buddhist monastery holds amazing collection of images and idols in metal, stone and wood. Legend holds that the Kings in the ancient times were crowned in this monastery. Many of the treasures offered by the people can be seen here even today.

The Ashokan Stupas
Indian Emperor Ashoka visited Nepal in 250 B.C and constructed four ancient stupas at the four corners of Patan. The four stupas are located in Pulchowk, Lagankhel, Ebahi and in Teta (way to Sano Gaon) respectively.

Changu Naryan

The Essence of Kathmandu Valley

Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley came in existence in 4th century. The temple is adorned by some of the best specimen of stone, wood, and metal craft in the valley. The temple stands as the epitome of culture, religion, history and faith of the Kathmandu valley.

Fast Facts

Location	22 km from Kathmandu
Importance	Oldest temple in Kathmandu valley
Built in	4th century A.D.
Devoted to	Hindu Lord Shiva
Major Attraction	Vishnu image with ten heads and ten arms

Historical Importance

• It is the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley.
• A Vishnu idol with ten heads and ten arms is a fine example of stone carving from the 5th century.
• The temple is of great importance due to its idols and shrines having rich architectural beauty.

Places to be Seen

• Garuda Narayana Temple
• Shrine of King Bhupalendra Malla and his mother
• Krishna Shrine
• Nateshvara Shrine
• Sculpture of Sri Mahadev
• Sculpture of Garuda
• Shrine of Somalingeshvara
• Sculptures: Vishnu, Durga Avalokitesvara and Garuda Ganesh
• Ganesh Shrine
• Bhagvati Temple
• Vishnu Vikranta
• Vishnu Vishvarupa
• Lakshmi Temple Shiva Temple
• Stone Column

Legendary places in the temple
Garuda Idol
Inside the Changunarayan temple is a esteemed figure of Garuda. The statue is offered sweets by the devotees every year on Nag Panchami. This is done in remembrance of the epic struggle with the great snake Taksaka. The drops of moisture, believed to be effective against diseases such as leprosy and ulcers, are collected by the priests.

King Bhupendra Malla Statues
Statues of King Bhupalendra Malla of Kathmandu and his mother can also be seen in a shrine. Bloody fighting characterised their politics during the 17th century but both were generous when it came to revering the gods.

Vishnu Sculpture
To the north of the temple is a sculpture of Lord Vishnu seated on Garuda (Garudasana Vishnu). This image appears on the Nepalese 10 rupee note. Vishnu sculpture dates back to 9th century.

Important Vishnu Sculptures
Vishwaroop
Vishwaroop sculpture, dating back to 8th century A.D., presents Lord Vishnu in his universal form.

Vishnu Vikrant
The stone idol, harking back to the 8th century A.D, is of the most powerful form of Lord Vishnu. It is related to the Hindu legend of Vaman, an incarnation of Vishnu, who measured space with feet.

Vishnu Riding Garuda
This figure of Vishnu mounting Garuda, the mythical bird, dates back to the 10th century A.D.

Narsimhha Vishnu
This form of Lord Vishnu, the Narsimha, is in half human and half lion form.

How to Reach
Take a taxi from Bhaktpaur to reach Changu Narayan temple. The driv would be of approximately 30 minutes.

Swayambhunath

The Most Enigmatic Holy Shrine

The Buddhist temple of Swayambhunath, situated on the top of a hill, west of Kathmandu, is one of the most popular, holy and instantly recognizable symbols of Nepal. The temple is colloquially known as the 'monkey temple' because of the large tribe of roving monkeys who guard the temple.

Fast Facts

Location	Kathmandu Valley
Era	Before 5th century
Unique Feature	365 steps lead to the Temple that is believed to be 'Self-Created' or 'Self-Existence'
Category	Wold Heritage Site

Major Attractions
The Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa is a golden spire crowning a conical wooded hill. It is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu Valley. It has a lofty white dome and a glittering golden spire that are visible from all sides of the valley. Historical records found on a stone inscription give evidence that the stupa was already an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination by the 5th century A.D. i.e. before the coming of Buddhism in the valley.

Area Surrounding The Stupa
The surroundings of Swyambhunarayan Stupa consists of chaityas, temples, painted images of deities and numerous other religious objects.

Harati Temple
The temple is dedicated to the goddess of smallpox and other epidemics. The presence of the Harati Devi temple signifies the intermingling of the pantheons of Hinduism and Buddhism in Nepal.

Palace Of Peace
Atop Syambunath hill is another fascinating, though less visited temple, Shantipur, popularly known as the 'Palace of Peace'. It is said that inside the secret underground chamber of the temple lives the 8th century Tantric master, Shantikar Acharya. The master, it is believed, has lived through centuries and has full control on the weather and the King of Kathmandu must go to him in times of drought.

Architecture
Amazing to look at, the architectural beauty of Swayambunath Temple gives way to the feelings of reverence and adoration. The stupa consists of a dome at the base and a cubical structure with eyes of Buddha looking in all the four directions. There are pentagonal Toran present above each of the four sides with statues engraved in them. Behind and above the torana there are thirteen tiers. Above all the tiers, there is a small space above which the Gajur is present.

Mythology
According to Swayambhu Puran, the entire Kathmandu valley was once filled with an enormous lake, out of which grew a mystical Lotus. The valley came to be known as Swayambhu, meaning 'Self-Created' or 'Self-Existent'. The Bodhistava Manjushri had a vision of the lotus at Swayambhu and traveled there to worship it.

In order to make the site more accessible to human pilgrims, Manjushri cut a gorge through the mountains surrounding the valley. The water drained out of the lake, leaving the valley in which Kathmandu now lies. The lotus was transformed into a hill and the flower become the Swayambhunath stupa.

Pashupati

Symbology
The dome at the base represents the entire world. When a person gets free (represented by eyes of mercy and self knowledge) from the bonds of the world, the person reaches the state a bit higher. After that, the person has to cross thirteen stages represented by the tiers before attaining Nirvana (salvation).

How To Reach
There are two ways to reach the top of the monkey temple: the first and the most common is to get there with a car but the most beautiful way to reach the top of this amazing temple is to climb the 365 stairs of the temple.

The Holiest Hindu Temple

Pashupatinath Temple, with its astonishing architectural beauty, stands as a symbol of faith, religion, culture and tradition. Regarded as the most sacred temple of Hindu Lord Shiva in the world, Pashupatinath Temple's existence dates back to 400 A.D. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga or phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to pay homage to this temple, that is also known as 'The Temple of Living Beings'.

Fast Facts

Location	5 km north-east of Kathmandu
Category	UNESCO listed World Cultural Heritage Site
Era	Prior to 400 A.D
Unique Features	» Only four priests, appointed by the King, can touch the idol of Lord Shiva. » The priests are always from south India. » It is believed that this tradition have been started by Sage Shankaracharaya in 6th century.

What to See
» Gold-painted images of guardian deities
» Chaturmukha (four-faced statue)
» Chadeshvar, an inscribed Licchavi linga from the 7th century
» Brahma Temple
» Dharmashila, a stone where sacred oaths are taken
» Arya Ghat
» Gauri Ghat (holy bath)
» Pandra Shivalaya (15 shrines)
» Gorakhnath and Vishwarup Temples
» Guhyeshwari (Guhjeshwari) Temple
» Kirateshwar Mahadeva Mandir and Surya Ghat

Architecture
» The two level roofs of the temple are embellished with gold and the four main doors are adorned with silver.
» The temple is famous for its awe-inspiring and astounding pagoda architecture.
» The western door has a statue of a large Bull, Nandi, is ornamented in gold. This black stone idol, about 6 ft in height and circumference, adds to the beauty and charisma of the temple.
» The present architectural nature of Pashupatinath temple came into existence as a result of renovation by Queen Gangadevi during the reign of Shivasimha Malla (1578-1620 AD).

Legends
There are many legends describing as to how the temple of Lord Pashupatinath came to existence here. Some of them are narrated below:-

The Cow Legend
Legend says that Lord Shiva once took the form of an antelope and sported unkown in the forest on Bagmati river's east bank. The gods later caught up with him, and grabbing him by the horn, forced him to resume his divine form. The broken horn was worshipped as a linga but overtime it was buried and lost. Centuries later an astonished herdsmen found one of his cows showering the earth with milk. Digging deep at the site, he discovered the divine linga of Pashupatinath.

The Linchchhavi Legend
According to Gopalraj Vamsavali, the oldest ever chronicle in Nepal, this temple was built by Supus Padeva, a Linchchhavi King, who according to the stone inscription erected by Jayadeva 11 in the courtyard of Pashupatinath in 753 AD, happened to be the ruler 39 generations before Manadeva (464-505 AD).

The Devalaya Legend
Another chronicle states that Pashupatinath Temple was in the form of Linga shaped Devalaya before Supus Padeva constructed a five storey temple of Pashupatinath in this place. As the time passed, the need for reparing and renovating this temple arose. It is learnt that this temple was reconsturcted by a mediaeval King named Shivadeva (1099-1126 AD). It was renovated by Ananta Malla adding a roof to it.

Festivals
» Pashupati area is regarded as one of the most important places of pilgrimages for the followers of Hinduism. Thousands of devotees from within and outside the country come to pay homage to Pashupatinath every day. And on special occasions like Ekadasi, Sankranti, Mahashivratri, Teej Akshaya, Rakshabandhan, Grahana (eclipse), Poornima (Full moon day) the whole atmosphere turns festive and mirthful as people congregate here in a far greater number.
» During the Shivaratri (also spelled Shivratri) festival Pashupatinath temple is lit with ghee lamps throughout the night and the temple remains open all night. Thousands of devotees take ritual baths in the Bagmati river on the day of the festival and observe a fast for the whole day. Hundreds of sadhus (sages) from different parts of Nepal and India come here on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri.

Auspicious Days to Visit
In August, during the Teej festival, thousands of women visit the temple to bathe in the holy waters of the Bagmati River. Because this ritual is meant to bring a long and happy marriage, many women dress in red saris, which are traditionally worn for wedding ceremonies. Full moon and New moon days are also considered auspicious to visit the temple.

Good to know
According to a legend recorded in local texts, especially the Nepalamahatmya and the Himavatkhanda, the Hindu Lord Shiva once fled from the other gods in Varanasi to Mrigasthali, the forest on the opposite bank of the Bagmati River from the temple. There, in the form of a gazelle, he slept with his consort Parvati. When the gods discovered him there and tried to bring him back to Varanasi, he leapt across the river to the opposite bank, where one of his horns broke into four pieces. After this, Shiva became manifest as Pashupati (Lord of Animals) in a four-face (chaturmukha) linga.

How to Reach
» There are regular bus services from Kathmandu (from Ratna Park or City Bus Station) to Patan,. It takes approximately 45 minutes to reach Goshala, the stop for Pashupatinath.
» Battery-operated Safaa tempos depart from near the Ratna Park office in Kathmandu and drops the pilgrims at Ring Road, west of Pashupatinath. Thereafter, a tempo going to Chabahil or Bodhnath can be hired.

Lumbini

Centre of holy faith

Lumbini, birthplace of Lord Buddha, is the centre of holy faith for the millions of Buddhists all over the world. Located in south-western Nepal, Lumbini holds several reminders of Lord Buddha. One of the most important historical sites in Nepal is endowed by nature with rich natural beauty.

Fast facts

Location	South-western Nepal
Importance	One of the most important historical sites in the country, UNESCO world heritage site
Known For	Religious historical sites
Nearby Attraction	Kapilvastu

Tourist Attractions
Lumbini Garden
The garden is foremost attraction in Lumbini tourism. The fact that Lord Buddha had taken birth in Lumbini Garden makes it a plce of reverence. Number of stupas, monasteries and temples surround the garden.

Some of these are ancient while are some were erected by medieval states. A collosal stone pillar built by the great Indian emperor Ashoka is also here. Account of the birth of Buddha is inscribed on it.

Mayadevi Temple
Devoted to Maya Devi, the mother of Lord Buddha, the temple attracts praise for its architectural beauty. Credit of discovering the temple, in 1895, goes to a German archaeologist. The temple is remarkable in the way Maya Devi is shown giving birth to Lord Buddha.

Pushkarni Pool
Queen Mayadevi took a dip in the pond before giving birth of prince Siddhartha. The prince also had his purification bath in the pond. Brick steps of the pond lead to the emerald-green water.

Kushinagar
Lumbini travel guide also takes you to Kushinagar where Lord Buddha attained nirvana. One can see number of stupas, viharas and chaityas which remind us of the mahaparinirvana.

Bodhgaya
The place of Mahaparinirvana, it was at Bodhgaya that Gautama Buddha attained unsurpassed, supreme Enlightenment. The legand narrates that Siddartha Gautama reached the village of senai and sat on a kusa grass mat under a pipal tree. Here he resolved not to rise again untill enlightenment was attianed. Thereafter the place became a pilgrimage site.

Maha Bodhi Temple
The temple is known for its 1700 years old idol. The idol sits facing the place where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment.

Bodhi Tree
Near Maha Bodhi Temple is the Bodhi tree, an ancient peepal tree. Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under this tree.

Kapilvastu Excursion
Kapilvastu, birthplace of Gautam Buddha, is a famous historic town which is always brimming with charm. Lord Buddha was born here in the sixth century. Kapilvastu attracts Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. Kapilvastu is 27km from Lumbini.

How to Reach
By Air : One can reach flight from Kathmandu Airport for Bhairahwa Airport which is the nearest air port for Lumbini. Sacred Garden is 15 minutes drive away.

By Rail : Nearest railway station is at Gorakhpur in India. It is 122 km from Lumbini.

By Road : Good roads link Bhairahwa to Lumbini, and also other important Nepal cities.

Local Transport
Buses, taxis and rickshaws are the means of local transport in Nepal.

 Boudhanath

Bouddhanath Stupa, the biggest stupa in Nepal, lies about 7 km east of the capital. The Bouddhanath stupa, also called by many as Khasti Chitya, is one of the oldest stupas in the country. After 1959, many Tibetans arrived and settled in Bouddhanath area. The stupa, a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site, is included in World Heritage Cultural site list by UNESCO.


Fast Facts

Location	7 km east of Kathmandu
Importance	UNESCO world Heritage Site
UNESCO Category	Cultural
UNESCO Listed	1979

Structure
With diameter of about 100m and 40m height, Buddhanath holds its place among the largest stupas in the world. The Buddhanath stupa covers a vast area. It has a round path at the bottom while another path is made of three-tier plinth. The stupa resembles Swayambhunath stupa to some extent. The most impressive part of the stupa is the eyes of the Buddha which are painted with red, white and blue colors.

Festivals
Lhosar, the Tibetan new year festival, is the most popular festival celebrated at Bodhanath Stupa. Lhosar festival begins with prayers and worship. Thousands of Tibetans dress in traditional attire and dance after expressing reverence for Buddha. Number of Tibetans come from Laddakh, Sikkim, Bhutan to take part in this festival.

Attractions
In Buddhanath Stupa, there are many monasteries or Gompa attractions. They are all impressively adorned and colorfully painted. Anyone can visit the monasteries and take visuals. It is advisable to give small donation if you take photographs.

Tit-Bits

• The whole structure has a diameter of about 100 meters and a height of approximate 40 meters.
• Legend holds that King Manadeva erected the Bouddhanath stupa during the Lichavi period. It has been refurbished many times. The present stupa was renovated in the seventeenth century.

 Chitwan

Wild roars of tigers, chirping of jungle birds, soothing breeze and the splashing ripples of the river Rapti... a visit to the Royal Chitwan National Park may sound dream-like but reality speaks for itself. Visit Chitwan if you believe the above statement and all the more if you doubt it.

Fast Facts

Location	120 km South West Of Kathmandu, Nepal
Area Coverage	932 sq km
Wildlife Attractions	One-Horned Rhino, Royal Bengal Tiger
Temperature	Max- 34°C & Min- 1°C
Best Time to Visit	From October to February
Nearest Access	Bharatpur

Striking Features

• There are more than 43 species of mammals, over 450 species of birds, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles in the park.
• One of the most important sub-tropical parks in Indian sub-continent.
• More than 43 mammal species, 450 bird species, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles.
• Known for diversity of eco-systems. Within the park are Churia hills, ox-bow lakes, and the flood plains of Rapti, Reu and Narayani rivers.

Fauna and Flora
Mammals
There are more than 50 species of mammals in the park. The park is famous for conservation of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, gharial, gaur, wild elephant, four horned antelope, striped hyena, pangolin, Gangetic dolphin, monitor lizard, and python. Some other animals found in the park are sambar, chital (deer), hog deer, barking deer, sloth deer, common leopard, ratel, palm civet, wild dog, langur and rhesus monkeys.

Amphibians
More than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles live in the park, more famous of which are the marsh crocodile, cobra, green pit viper and various species of frogs and tortoises.

Birds
There are more than species of birds in the park. Counted among the endangered birds are the Bengal florican, giant hornbill, lesser florican, black stork and white stork. Few common birds are peafowl, red jungle fowl, and different species of egrets, herons, kingfishers, flycatchers and woodpeckers. The best time for watching birds is in March and December.

Flora
One fifth of the park is comprises the floodplain of the Narayani, Rapti and the Reu Rivers. It is covered by dense Elephant grass interspersed with forests of silk cotton (Kapok), Acacia and Sisam trees.

Adventure Activities
Watching the wonders of Nature
Watching unique birds and animals from atop an elephant can be quite exciting. Here is a list of activities that can make your trip to the Royal Chitwan National Park more memorable.

Canoeing
Canoeing on Chitwan rivers is an excellent way of seeing waterfalls. The park's dolphins and crocodiles, however, are seldom seen. The high temperatures experienced in the park make bathing in the river an attractive pastime. Water-holes are also lure for a swim. Watching the elephants showering is very interesting.

Elephant Tracking
Elephant rides is a major Chitwan attractions. Wild boar, red deer and other creatures of the jungle can be seen, in the morning and evening especially, from from atop the tall pachyderms. One more advantage is that rhinos can be approached without danger. Apart from the animals, luxuriant vegetation and jungle chorus - different sounds in different parts of the day - make the ride a memorable experience.

Jeep Safari
Jungle safaris make it possible to explore the length and breadth of the National Park.

White- Water Rafting
White-water rafting expedition and jungle safari together represent the ultimate adventure. The river trip itself takes two to three days, commencing at or upstream of Mugling and ending in Narayanghat.

Animal Watching from Hides
Apart from safaris on foot and elephant back, hides offer animal watchers another way of getting what they want. Called machans in local language, these wooden towers are usually erected in clearings crossed by game paths. Best time to watch red deer and rhinos is early morning and evening.

Travel Tips

• Try to be well informed about the routes of the park
• Consult the doctor before you leave for the trip
• Do not disturb the animals and birds in the park
• Remain in a group
• Try to take a guide along with you while exploring the park

What To Bring With You

• Binoculars
• Sun Hat and Sun Cream
• Swim Wear
• Light Clothes; Color should blend with natural surroundings
• Light sweater or jacket for mornings and evenings during the winter season (Dec to Feb)
• Shoes for easy movement
• Flashlight
• Swiss knife

How To Reach Royal Chitwan National Park
By Road
Move on the Kathmandu-Narayanghat Highway. Then drive on the Pokhara - Narayanghat Highway which takes you to the park.

By Raft
You can raft down the Trisuli River (from Kathmandu) or Seti River (from Pokhara) ro reach the park.

By Air
Regular charter flights are available from Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar (Koshi Tappu), Bhairawa (Lumbini), Nepalgunj (Bardia).

Wild roars of tigers, chirping of jungle birds, soothing breeze and the splashing ripples of the river Rapti... a visit to the Royal Chitwan National Park may sound dream-like but reality speaks for itself. Visit Chitwan if you believe the above statement and all the more if you doubt it.

Fast Facts

Location	120 km South West Of Kathmandu, Nepal
Area Coverage	932 sq km
Wildlife Attractions	One-Horned Rhino, Royal Bengal Tiger
Temperature	Max- 34°C & Min- 1°C
Best Time to Visit	From October to February
Nearest Access	Bharatpur

Striking Features

• There are more than 43 species of mammals, over 450 species of birds, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles in the park.
• One of the most important sub-tropical parks in Indian sub-continent.
• More than 43 mammal species, 450 bird species, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles.
• Known for diversity of eco-systems. Within the park are Churia hills, ox-bow lakes, and the flood plains of Rapti, Reu and Narayani rivers.

Fauna and Flora
Mammals
There are more than 50 species of mammals in the park. The park is famous for conservation of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, gharial, gaur, wild elephant, four horned antelope, striped hyena, pangolin, Gangetic dolphin, monitor lizard, and python. Some other animals found in the park are sambar, chital (deer), hog deer, barking deer, sloth deer, common leopard, ratel, palm civet, wild dog, langur and rhesus monkeys.

Amphibians
More than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles live in the park, more famous of which are the marsh crocodile, cobra, green pit viper and various species of frogs and tortoises.

Birds
There are more than species of birds in the park. Counted among the endangered birds are the Bengal florican, giant hornbill, lesser florican, black stork and white stork. Few common birds are peafowl, red jungle fowl, and different species of egrets, herons, kingfishers, flycatchers and woodpeckers. The best time for watching birds is in March and December.

Flora
One fifth of the park is comprises the floodplain of the Narayani, Rapti and the Reu Rivers. It is covered by dense Elephant grass interspersed with forests of silk cotton (Kapok), Acacia and Sisam trees.

Adventure Activities
Watching the wonders of Nature
Watching unique birds and animals from atop an elephant can be quite exciting. Here is a list of activities that can make your trip to the Royal Chitwan National Park more memorable.

Canoeing
Canoeing on Chitwan rivers is an excellent way of seeing waterfalls. The park's dolphins and crocodiles, however, are seldom seen. The high temperatures experienced in the park make bathing in the river an attractive pastime. Water-holes are also lure for a swim. Watching the elephants showering is very interesting.

Elephant Tracking
Elephant rides is a major Chitwan attractions. Wild boar, red deer and other creatures of the jungle can be seen, in the morning and evening especially, from from atop the tall pachyderms. One more advantage is that rhinos can be approached without danger. Apart from the animals, luxuriant vegetation and jungle chorus - different sounds in different parts of the day - make the ride a memorable experience.

Jeep Safari
Jungle safaris make it possible to explore the length and breadth of the National Park.

White- Water Rafting
White-water rafting expedition and jungle safari together represent the ultimate adventure. The river trip itself takes two to three days, commencing at or upstream of Mugling and ending in Narayanghat.

Animal Watching from Hides
Apart from safaris on foot and elephant back, hides offer animal watchers another way of getting what they want. Called machans in local language, these wooden towers are usually erected in clearings crossed by game paths. Best time to watch red deer and rhinos is early morning and evening.

Travel Tips

• Try to be well informed about the routes of the park
• Consult the doctor before you leave for the trip
• Do not disturb the animals and birds in the park
• Remain in a group
• Try to take a guide along with you while exploring the park

What To Bring With You

• Binoculars
• Sun Hat and Sun Cream
• Swim Wear
• Light Clothes; Color should blend with natural surroundings
• Light sweater or jacket for mornings and evenings during the winter season (Dec to Feb)
• Shoes for easy movement
• Flashlight
• Swiss knife

How To Reach Royal Chitwan National Park
By Road
Move on the Kathmandu-Narayanghat Highway. Then drive on the Pokhara - Narayanghat Highway which takes you to the park.

By Raft
You can raft down the Trisuli River (from Kathmandu) or Seti River (from Pokhara) ro reach the park.

By Air
Regular charter flights are available from Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar (Koshi Tappu), Bhairawa (Lumbini), Nepalgunj (Bardia).

 Sagarmatha national park

The Sagarmatha National Park is the highest national park in world, located above 3000 meters i.e. 9700 feet. The park comprises the upper catchment areas of Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi Rivers. Most part of the landscape is rugged terrain and gorges of the high Himalayas.

The Park is located amidst the peaks which are counted among the tallest in the world. Mount Sagarmatha is none other than Mt. Everest itself. Other well known peaks such as Lhotse, Thamerku, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Kwangde, Kangtaiga and Gyachyung Kang are also located nearby. More than 118 species of birds and 26 species of butterflies reside in the park.

Fast Facts

Location	Solu-Khumbu District of the Sagarmatha Zone, Northeast of Kathmandu
Established On	July 19, 1976
Importance	UNESCO World Heritage Site
UNESCO Category	Natural
Listed In Year	1976
Area Covered	1,148 sq. km.
Endangered Species	Wild Yak, Musk Deer, Red Panda, Snow Leopard and Himalayan Black Bear
Best Season To Visit	October to November and December to February

UNESCO World Heritage Site

• The Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest) and the surrounding areas are important not only to Nepal but also to the rest of the world. too. Its recognition as a National Park since 1976 intends to protect its unique cultural, physical and scientific values.
• The UNESCO recognised Sagarmatha National Park as a world heritage site in 1976 as the park 'contains superlative natural beauty and is of great aesthetic importance'.

Fauna
Creatures that can be witnessed in the wildlife tour of the park are following:

Endangered Animals : Endangered animals residing in this park are Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Wild Yak, Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear.
Large Mammals : Big mammals commonly seen in the park are the Himalayan Tahr and Musk Deer.
Other Mammals : Other mammals include the Himalayan Black Bear, Jackal, Weasels, Marten, Common Langur and the Himalayan Mousehare (Pika).
Birds : The park is the residence of more than 118 species of birds. The most common ones are the Impeyan Pheasant (Danphe), Redbilled Chough, Blood pheasant and Yellow-billed Chough.

Flora
Pine and hemlock forests are found at the lower elevations of the park. Above 3500m, trees such as birch, rhododendron, silver fir and juniper trees can be seen. Rhododendron show luminous colours in spring and monsoon seasons. The tree line in the region is at 4500m. Birch gives way to juniper and rhododendron scrubs. The park landscape is cut by deep rivers and glaciers. It can be segregated into four climatic zones:

• The Lower Forested Zone where Juniper, Birch, Blue Pines, Bamboo, Firs and Rhododendon grow.
• The Upper Zone where plant life is limited to Lichens and Mosses.
• The Artic Zone where plants stop to grow.

Activities
Nature Walk
The park can be best experienced on foot. Nothing can match the walker's sense of excitement at complete fusion with the world of Nature by observing the park's vegetation and wildlife.

Trekking
From Sagarmatha National Park, trekking trail to Kala Pathar Peak is the most popular, though the treks to Gokyoand Chukung Valleys are no less thrilling.

Places of Interest
Apart from the greatly varied flora and fauna as well as the impressive mountain scenery of the park, there are some monasteries and gompas in the Sagarmatha National Park premises that hold the travellers' attention. Here is brief infomation about such places.

Park Visitor Center
It is located at Mendalphu i.e. the park's Headquarters. While staying at Namche Bazar, don't forget to visit the natural history and cultural heritage museum.

Thame Gomba
It is one of the most important religious centers in the area. Renowned Mani Rimdu festival is celebrated here in May.

Khumjung Gomba
In June the Dumje festival is observed here as well as at the monasteries of Namche and Pangboche.

Highlights

• Marvellous mountains, glaciers and deep valleys, dominated by Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world (8,848 m).
• Several rare species, such as the snow leopard and the lesser panda, can be found in the park.
• The presence of the Sherpas, with their unique culture, makes the site more interesting.

How to Reach
Common ways to reach the national park are:

• Flight to Lukla followed by two days walk.
• Bus to Jiri and 10 days walk
• Flight to Tumlingtar and 10 days walk.
• Flight to Syangboche, the highest airstrip in the world.
• Flight to Phaplu and 5 days walk.