Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Malla period (14th to 18th centuries), particularly during the reign of King Siddhi Nars-
ingh Malla (1619-60).
Swayambhunath Stupa
BUDDHIST STUPA
The Swayambhunath stupa is of the crowning glories of Kathmandu Valley architecture.
This perfectly proportioned monument rises through a whitewashed dome to a gilded
spire, from where four faces of the Buddha stare out across the valley in the cardinal direc-
tions. The noselike squiggle below the piercing eyes is actually the Nepali number
ek
(one), signifying unity, and above is a third eye signifying the all-seeing insight of the
Buddha.
Bodhnath Stupa
BUDDHIST STUPA
The first stupa at Bodhnath was built sometime after AD 600, when the Tibetan king,
Songtsen Gampo, converted to Buddhism. In terms of grace and purity of line, no other
stupa in Nepal comes close to Bodhnath. From its whitewashed dome to its gilded tower
painted with the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, the monument is perfectly proportioned.
Pashupatinath Temple
HINDU TEMPLE
The pagoda-style temple was constructed in 1696 but Pashupatinath has been a site of
Hindu and Buddhist worship for far longer. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the com-
pound of the famous main temple, but you can catch tantalising glimpses of what is going
on inside from several points around the perimeter wall.
Garden of Dreams
GARDENS
200/100; 9am-10pm; )
The beautifully restored Swapna Bagaicha, or Garden of Dreams, is one of the most serene
and beautiful enclaves in Kathmandu. Bring a book. It's two minutes' walk and one million
miles from central Thamel.
