Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains, Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With its vibrant culture, ancient temples, and stunning natural beauty, Kathmandu is a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. One of the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu is the village of Bungamati, a traditional Newari settlement that is full of interesting activities and attractions. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Bungamati, Kathmandu, Nepal.
1. Explore the Ancient Temples: Bungamati is home to a number of ancient temples, including the Bhairavnath Temple, the Chhaya Devi Temple, and the Rato Machhindranath Temple. These temples are steeped in history and culture, and are well worth a visit.
2. Visit the Rato Machhindranath Temple: The Rato Machhindranath Temple is one of the most important temples in Nepal. It is dedicated to the god Machhindranath, and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who visit. The temple is also home to a large chariot that is pulled through the streets of Bungamati during the annual Rato Machhindranath Jatra Festival.
3. Take a Boat Ride on the Manohara River: The Manohara River runs through Bungamati, and taking a boat ride on the river is one of the best ways to experience the village. The boat ride offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and you may even spot some of the local wildlife.
4. Visit the Chhaya Devi Temple: The Chhaya Devi Temple is a centuries-old temple dedicated to the goddess Chhaya Devi, who is believed to be the protector of the village. The temple is an important pilgrimage site, and it is said that those who visit the temple will be blessed with good luck and prosperity.
5. Visit the Bhairavnath Temple: The Bhairavnath Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the god Bhairavnath. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, and it is believed that those who visit the temple will be blessed with good health and prosperity.
6. Shop at the Local Markets: Bungamati is home to a number of bustling local markets where you can find a variety of goods, including traditional clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
7. Take a Cooking Class: Bungamati is known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn how to make some of the local dishes.
8. Visit the Local Museums: Bungamati is home to a number of interesting museums, including the National Museum of Nepal, the Natural History Museum, and the National Art Gallery.
9. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Bungamati is home to some of the best restaurants in Kathmandu, serving up delicious local dishes. Try some of the local favorites, such as momos (dumplings) and chowmein (noodles).
10. Take a Hike: The surrounding hills and mountains offer a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Taking a hike is a great way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area, Bungamati, Kathmandu, Nepal has something to offer for everyone. From ancient temples to delicious local cuisine, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay.