5 Things To Do In Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the city that reflects Nepal’s culture, tradition and civilization, is a small world in itself. With the alarming rate of population growth in Kathmandu in the past few years, anyone can easily assume its magnetism and fascination. There are numerous aspects to this sudden population upsurge in the capital. First, the opportunities it offers to those willing to endeavor and second, the conveniences. Life in Kathmandu is like nowhere else. The expansive city lies under the shadow of hills and mountains and attracts an unbroken stream of ambitious national and international travelers, keen to unlock the secrets of this ancient place and to enjoy the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle. Many denizens believe that there are certain whys and wherefores that attract them to take a leap to the capital. There are numerous indulgences that keep the city blunt yet sought after. For those indecisive few who can't think of what to do when in Kathmandu, here is a list of "5 Things To Do In the Capital."
1. Nagarkot Sunrise
Witnessing the sunrise from Nagarkot (32 kilometres from Kathmandu) is the most popular goings-on in Kathmandu. The glimpse of sunshine above the snowcapped mountains including Mt. Everest, is an experience of a lifetime. Nagarkot Tower at 2175 m gives a 360-degree panoramic view from east to west. Mt. Numbur, Cho Oyu (8201 m), Gaurishankar (7134m), Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), Shisha Pangma (8013 m), Langtang (7246 m), Ganesh Himal (7406 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163m), and Mt. Annapurna are some of the mountains you will see. This early morning experience at Nagarkot, of the first rays of the sun, adds warmth and brings all who are sleeping to life.
2. Yoga Classes
Nepal has a wonderful blend of Buddhist and Hindu philosophies. This blend also offers choices in meditation and yoga. Several thousand years ago, yoga rishis reflected nature through their yoga practices, which is still followed by yoga training centres, Kathmandu's temperate and mild monsoon climate makes it suitable for yoga practices all year round. The spiritualism of Kathmandu is rarely affected by modernization, so mastering yoga and rejuvenating your inner self in the mornings is easier and more effective here.
3. Cycling
Kathmandu is an intriguing, yet infuriating city at the same time. Its maddening traffic and crowds make you want to escape somewhere else. If you truly want to travel along the secret and calming side of the capital city, cycling is the best option. Whether you're a beginner or expert, the trails around Kathmandu will keep you excited. Easy paths to challenging and technical single tracks are what the undulating hills offer. While you discover more of Kathmandu, you are likely to be addicted to cycling. Some popular cycling trails are:
i. Kakani – Budhanilkantha
ii. Budanilkantha- Kapan
iii. Kathmandu –Pilot Baba Ashram
iv. Thamel- Nagarjuna Hill.
4. Mountain flight
Summiting the highest peak of the world is not achievable by all. But, touching it with your soul and eyes is a possibility, thanks to mountain flights. It is not merely a flight but an exploration, a journey to spirituality as you get closer to the most pristine form of nature. The one-hour worth spectacular flight is an experience that will leave an imprint in your life. On the flight, you will witness panoramic mountains of majestic heights.
5. Visit Temples in Kathmandu
Hinduism is a dominant religion of Nepal, and Kathmandu provides a good reflection of this. One of the best ways to explore Nepali culture and Hinduism is to visit the many temples you will find around the nooks and corners of the city. Along with religious ties, these temples are architecturally important too. Most of these temples can be visited year round and are open for 24 hours, but the best time to visit is early mornings, where true bliss and peace can be experienced. Some of the temples and stupas of Kathmandu Valley to visit are Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Dakshin Kali Temple, etc.
