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Monday, September 5, 2011

World Heritage Sites in Nepal


 
Nepal, which is the land of the majestic Himalayas, is a treasure trove of a number of World Heritage Sites. UNESCO has incorporated 10 most incredible destinations in Nepal as World Heritage Sites. These include both natural as well as cultural sites. Of these, 8 are cultural World Heritage Sites in Nepal, namely Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, Changu Narayan Temple and Lumbini. The Everest (Sagarmatha) National Park and Chitwan National Park are the two natural World Heritage Sites in Nepal.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Among the famous Nepal World Heritage Sites, Kathmandu Durbar Square is known for its ancient temples, palaces, courtyards and streets. There are 3 museums in the royal enclave and a number of monuments.

Patan Durbar Square: This world heritage site is also one of the best tourist attractions in Nepal. It comprises marvelous monuments like Patan Durbar Square, the 17th century Krishna Mandir, Hiranyavarna Mahavihar (Golden Temple), Rudravarna Mahavihar and the terracotta temple of Mahabouddha.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: One of the best preserved Sites of World Heritage in Nepal, Bhaktapur Durbar Square showcases artistic masterpieces as the 55-windows palace, Golden Gate, Golden Spout, Taleju temple complex and Nyataponla - the five-storied temple.

Changu Narayan Temple: Changu Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is said to be the oldest pagoda in Nepal.

Swayambhunath Stupa: This is one of the oldest Buddhist shrines in the world. Its marvelous architecture comprises a huge dome-like structure bordered by 13 gilded rings which depict 13 heavens.

Pashupatinath Temple: This Hindu shrine is a two-storied pagoda and is most noted for its attractive gold-plated roofs and silver-coated doors.

Lumbini: Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a window to the historical phase of the legendary Buddha and King Ashoka. You will come across ancient palaces, monasteries and temples. This place happens to be one of the latest additions to the World Heritage Sites in Nepal.

Bouddhanath Stupa: Also popular by the name Khasti, Bouddhanath Stupa claims to be one of the world's largest stupas. This Buddhist monument has a typical octagonal Mandala design with hundreds of prayer wheels and 108 images of the Buddha.

Royal Chitwan National Park: Royal Chitwan National Park has a unique ecosystem and is set amidst the picturesque Churiya hills, ox-bow lakes and flood plains. The flora and fauna of this park is simply amazing.

Sagarmatha National Park: Sagarmatha National Park is surrounded by the Mt. Everest, the highest peak on earth. This place also has an incredible wildlife variety.