The magnificent Boudhanath Stupa is one of the world’s biggest stupas and the most sacred Buddhist site in Nepal. The mammoth whitewashed dome with its piercing Buddha eyes is mounted on three enormous tiers shaped like mandalas. The dome is finished with a gilded tower and decorated with colorful prayer flags — a sight to behold. According to legend, it was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo after converting to Buddhism. Destroyed by invaders in the 14th century, the current stupa is fairly new.

Visitors can join locals, monks, nuns and Buddhist pilgrims on their ritual kora, circling the stupa and spinning its prayer wheels. At any time, the bustling streets around Boudha provide a fascinating glimpse into Tibetan culture and Himalayan Buddhist life.

Also known as the “Monkey Temple”, Swayambhunath is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site perched atop a hill northwest of Kathmandu. This 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site is crowned by an iconic white dome stupa with a gilded spire. The stupa’s cube-shaped harmika features Buddha’s eyes gazing in four directions, symbolizing omniscience. Prayer wheels encircle the base, interspersed with statues of the Pancha (five) Buddha. The complex houses Buddhist monasteries, the Hindu Harati Devi Temple, and numerous chaityas (small stupas).

Vibrant prayer flags, circumambulating pilgrims, and the aroma of incense create a mesmerizing atmosphere. The surrounding forest is home to playful monkeys, lending the site its colloquial name. Visitors can ascend via a long staircase or drive part way up before climbing the remaining steps. The panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley from the summit are breathtaking.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar Square is the cultural heart of Patan in the Kathmandu Valley. Developed primarily during the Malla dynasty (14th-18th centuries), it exemplifies Newar architecture at its finest.

The square features an array of stunning temples, including the Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, Hari Shankar Temple and Shiva Temple, a showcase of the rich culture, artistry and heritage of Newa people. The square is also home to a traditional water spout called Manga: Hiti and the ancient Malla palace. Now housing the Patan Museum, the palace’s notable features include the Sundari Chowk with its Tusha Hiti (Royal Bath), Mul Chowk for ceremonies, and the Queen’s pond.

The complex blends historical grandeur with vibrant community life, ringing with prayer bells, hymns and both traditional rituals and modern events. Despite damage from the 2015 earthquake, ongoing restoration preserves this testament to Nepal’s artistic prowess. Patan Durbar Square offers visitors an immersive experience into the country’s rich cultural heritage, where ancient traditions and contemporary life seamlessly coexist.

A popular hiking trail that starts off very close to Hotel Tibet International is the Sundarijal-Dhap-Reservoir hike. The 4-hour hike starts off at Sundarijal, following the trail through lush forests of Shivapuri National Park. The trail is a steep climb of stairways for the first hour passing through small village settlements. The second half of the trail follows clear streams and thick forest with plenty of opportunities for bird-watching.

The trek culminates in Dhap Dam or Dhap Reservoir, a man made lake. Enjoy the breeze and the sunshine along with the waves of the lake. Another 30-minutes walk from the reservoir takes you to Chisapani, a small hilltop village at 2,215 meters. This moderate 4 to 5 hour hike serves as an excellent introduction to trekking in Nepal, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.