As the gateway to the Himalayas, Kathmandu is a globally renowned tourist destination, celebrated for its astonishing concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
**Key Attractions:** - **Kathmandu Durbar Square:** The historic seat of Nepalese royalty, featuring intricate pagoda-style temples and the Kumari Ghar (home of the Living Goddess). - **Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple):** An ancient hilltop stupa offering panoramic views of the city, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. - **Pashupatinath Temple:** One of the most sacred Hindu temple complexes in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. - **Boudhanath Stupa:** A massive, striking mandala-shaped stupa that serves as the heart of Nepal’s Tibetan Buddhist community. - **Narayanhiti Palace Museum:** The former royal palace, now a museum detailing the history of the Shah dynasty.