Kathmandu, Nepal’s enormous and sprawling capital, sucks you into the vortex of its
fast pace and chaotic atmosphere immediately upon entry. Swerving between
revving cars and beeping motorbikes as you squeeze through the narrow streets,
you will be greeted by eager street hawkers and the humming throng of people on
every street, lane and corner, while your senses go into overdrive and the dust
gathers pace around you… locking you into the frenetic world that is Nepal’s
magnificent capital city and its gateway of tourism.
But don’t be too
quick to give up on Kathmandu – you have to learn to become a part of its
magical mayhem – because with a bit of patience you will learn to lose yourself
within it. There’s more to it
than meets the intimidated eye, and a whole adventure awaits you beyond the
backpacking area of Thamel, which many rarely look beyond.
Exploring
Kathmandu is like stepping back in time. Here you will find a haven of old,
decaying yet decadent architecture; wonky but still stable structures; the
intricate details of carved wooden doorways and window frames; shop fronts so
low that you can easily miss the treasures inside; narrow streets filled with
shops dedicated to specialist businesses from fabrics to dentistry and
quiet courtyards where community spirit thrives.
Kathmandu is
also known to be a treasure trove of artistic and religious deity sculptures
made from wood, stone and other materials scattered around the city, many of
which are easily missed if you don’t keep your eyes peeled. Some are high up on
buildings or perched next to a random shop front door, others can be found at
foot level, within a curb, narrow alleyway or tucked away in a remote place and
the majority can be found near or within temples, stupas, shine and other
respected buildings.
There are key sights to see within the city and around the outskirts.
Visit Pashupatinath temple, oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu, or the dominant
Boudhanath, said to be one of the holiest sites in the country. Swayambhu, also
known as monkey temple for its holy inhabitants, is set atop a hill and
provides the perfect panoramic view for sunset.
Kathmandu is as
fascinating as it is frantic; as charming as it is chaotic. A melting pot of
culture, history and religion, its exotic atmosphere is unique and not easily
forgotten. Lose yourself within the streets of this incredible bustling city
and, if you can, give it more than a two-day pass.
(Author : Becki
Enright, United Kingdon of www.backpackerbecki.com
)
