The City

Kathmandu is the largest and most populous city in Nepal, as well as the heart and soul of tourism, the economy and cultural heritage in the country. It lies in the stunning Kathmandu Valley, along with its sister cities of Patan and Bhadgaon, where mountain life, religious tradition and big city buzz coexist. For centuries an important centre for both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, it is a city steeped in spirituality, with temples, shrines and altars seemingly everywhere you look, but the Nepalese capital is by no means stuck in the past. It is emerging as a modern, dynamic and cosmopolitan metropolis, offering all the amenities and luxuries of contemporary living without losing its sense of self and historical roots. Kathmandu also serves as either a starting or finishing point for many trekkers and explorers of the Himalayas and few mountaineers don't at least pass through it. The city is surrounded by stunning mountain views that by themselves could be enough to warrant a visit. Adventurers would do well not to miss the chance to visit.