Bagmati Province is Nepal's cultural and political heartland, home to the ancient Kathmandu Valley and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The province encompasses the cities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan), and Bhaktapur, each with their own majestic Durbar Squares, along with sacred Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, and trekking routes into the high Himalayas.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Bagmati.
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1
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the holy Bagmati River is a sprawling complex of temples, ashrams, and cremation ghats. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main sanctum but can observe from across the river and watch the evening aarti ceremony. Sadhus (holy men) roam the complex, making it a fascinating cultural experience.
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2
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest stupas in the world and the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The immense white dome topped with the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha is surrounded by over 50 monasteries and a bustling market of Tibetan handicrafts and prayer items. Join the thousands of pilgrims circling the stupa in the morning kora walk, spinning prayer wheels as they go.
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3
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
One of the oldest and most iconic religious sites in Nepal, this ancient stupa sits atop a forested hill with panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. The site is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, and is famous for its resident troop of rhesus macaque monkeys. Climb the 365 steps to the main stupa, decorated with prayer flags and surrounded by shrines, temples, and statues. Sunrise views from the top are spectacular.
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4
Patan Durbar Square
Considered one of the finest examples of Newari architecture in Nepal, Patan's royal palace square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with temples, courtyards, and shrines built between the 12th and 18th centuries. The superb Patan Museum, housed in the restored Royal Palace, displays an outstanding collection of bronzes, woodcarvings, and sacred art. The 17th-century Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar) nearby is equally remarkable.
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5
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The best-preserved medieval city in Nepal, Bhaktapur's palace square contains the magnificent 55-Window Palace, the towering Nyatapola Temple, the elaborately carved Golden Gate, and dozens of temples. The city is famous for its woodcarving, pottery (visit the nearby Pottery Square), and the sweet curd dessert juju dhau. Bhaktapur was significantly damaged in the 2015 earthquake but has been extensively restored.
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6
Changu Narayan Temple
Nepal's oldest existing temple (first built in the 4th century AD) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dedicated to Vishnu. Perched on a hilltop east of Kathmandu, the temple complex contains some of Nepal's finest Licchavi stone carvings, including the remarkable Garuda statue and a 5th-century stone inscription of King Manadeva. The hilltop village around the temple is a living museum of traditional craft-making.
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7
Kathmandu Durbar Square
The historic heart of old Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the seat of the ancient Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty. The square contains the Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace complex, the Kumari Ghar (house of the Living Goddess), the Taleju Temple, and dozens of medieval temples. Significantly damaged by the 2015 earthquake, ongoing restoration work is visible throughout. The surrounding bazaars are still vibrant.
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8
Kumari Ghar (Palace of the Living Goddess)
The ornate 18th-century building adjacent to Kathmandu Durbar Square is home to the Kumari, a pre-pubescent girl selected to be worshipped as the living incarnation of the goddess Taleju. Visitors wait in the carved wooden courtyard for the Kumari to appear briefly at a window. Photography of the Kumari is strictly prohibited. The building's elaborately carved peacock windows are among Kathmandu's most beautiful examples of Newari craftsmanship.
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9
Garden of Dreams
A beautifully restored Edwardian-era formal garden dating from the early 20th century, built by Field Marshal Kaiser Sumsher Rana. The tranquil garden with its pavilions, fountains, and manicured lawns is a serene escape from the Thamel chaos just outside its walls. The Kaiser Cafe inside the garden serves excellent food and drinks in an elegant setting. A peaceful spot for picnics and relaxation.
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10
Namobuddha
A sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site on a forested hill in Kavre District, revered at the spot where the Bodhisattva Mahasattva offered his body to a starving tigress and her cubs. The site features the Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, a large modern monastery with colorful murals, and a small stupa on the hilltop marking the legendary site. The hike from Panauti through forested hillsides is scenic and rewarding.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.