In Focus: Basntapur, part of Kathmandu Durbar square, one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in Nepal. However, we take only a silver of the big pie and focus on the stretch from main entrance of Basantapur till the big open space that also makes up for the most vibrant area in the palce.
Getting There: If you are taking a public vehicle, drop off at Shahid gate in Sundhara and prepare for a 10 minute walk to your destination.
Must Haves: Camera, wet and dry tissues, and a hat or cap if you are on a day time visit.
The Ideal Time: Visiting the site in the morning is advised, as the beauty of Basantapur truly shines in the early hours. Weekdays are especially less crowded compared to weekends.
Things to see:
> The tip of ‘Neparsinghdya Chaitya’ (a stupa) believed to be from Lichchhavi period, located at the end of Basantapur courtyard stretch, which was accidentally excavated when the place was being renovated.
>The intricate woodcarvings on the Basantapur Tower, located on the right side of the main entrance.
> The Chariot of Kumari – The Living Goddess
Things to do:
> Purchase Nepali souvenirs: Nepal made gift items, arts and artifacts or ornaments, jewelleries, and statues that may cost you as low as Rs.100 or range up to thousands, from the shops and street side vandors.
> Visit the nearby Freak Street, a landmark to the hippies of the 70s, to hang out or walk inside the Basantapur Durbar Square and the museum to get a feel of the old and culturally rich Nepali history.
Caution: Watch out for beggars who will pester you and pick pockets. Pay careful attention to your belongings like bags and cameras.
Near tips:
> The street shops are really cheap and if you polish your bargaining skills, you will be able to grab exciting deals.
> Carry a lot of Nepali Currency in smaller denominations, which will come in handy when purchasing items of bargain. Smart vendors will refuse to take their price down if they see big notes in your hands.
Getting There: If you are taking a public vehicle, drop off at Shahid gate in Sundhara and prepare for a 10 minute walk to your destination.
Must Haves: Camera, wet and dry tissues, and a hat or cap if you are on a day time visit.
The Ideal Time: Visiting the site in the morning is advised, as the beauty of Basantapur truly shines in the early hours. Weekdays are especially less crowded compared to weekends.
Things to see:
> The tip of ‘Neparsinghdya Chaitya’ (a stupa) believed to be from Lichchhavi period, located at the end of Basantapur courtyard stretch, which was accidentally excavated when the place was being renovated.
>The intricate woodcarvings on the Basantapur Tower, located on the right side of the main entrance.
> The Chariot of Kumari – The Living Goddess
Things to do:
> Purchase Nepali souvenirs: Nepal made gift items, arts and artifacts or ornaments, jewelleries, and statues that may cost you as low as Rs.100 or range up to thousands, from the shops and street side vandors.
> Visit the nearby Freak Street, a landmark to the hippies of the 70s, to hang out or walk inside the Basantapur Durbar Square and the museum to get a feel of the old and culturally rich Nepali history.
Caution: Watch out for beggars who will pester you and pick pockets. Pay careful attention to your belongings like bags and cameras.
Near tips:
> The street shops are really cheap and if you polish your bargaining skills, you will be able to grab exciting deals.
> Carry a lot of Nepali Currency in smaller denominations, which will come in handy when purchasing items of bargain. Smart vendors will refuse to take their price down if they see big notes in your hands.
