7 Historical Places to Visit in Nepal

Published: 21 Dec 2023   |   Last updated: 21 Dec 2023

Imagine you walk through places that hold the stories of kings, temples, and ancient legends. How crazy would that be? The historical places to visit in Nepal should be next on your bucket list.


These sites act as storytellers, sharing tales from the past as you explore. 


From grand palaces to detailed temples and ancient legends, each place connects you to Nepal's rich history with every step you take.


Walking through Nepal's historical places is like going back in time—it's not just a walk; it's an exciting journey!

Best Historical Places To Visit In Nepal 

As you explore, imagine walking through grand royal palaces, where each brick and courtyard has stories to tell about majestic events.
 

The temples, with their beautiful architecture, are like visual delights, revealing the incredible craftsmanship of ancient artisans. 

Historical Place Significance
Pashupatinath Temple UNESCO site dedicated to Lord Shiva, serving as a cremation site with over a millennium of history.
Boudhanath Home to one of the world's largest stupas, a UNESCO site, and a hub for Tibetan Buddhism with Buddha's eyes, prayer flags, and spiritual ambiance.
Basantapur Durbar Square A time capsule of ancient palaces and courtyards, providing a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square UNESCO site featuring ancient palaces, temples, and a vibrant ambiance with street vendors, offering a unique historical experience.
Patan Durbar Square UNESCO site in Lalitpur showcasing Newar architecture, temples, and palaces, blending history and art in a rich cultural atmosphere.
Syambhunath (Monkey Temple) A Buddhist stupa on a hill with panoramic views, known for its spiritual ambiance and resident monkeys, open to everyone.
Changunarayn UNESCO site with one of the oldest Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring intricate carvings and a tranquil village setting. A hidden historical gem.

These structures are more than just buildings—they're living links to Nepal's rich cultural past.

Let's uncover the seven historical places to visit in Nepal and make your trip to Nepal memorable. 

Pashupatinath Temple 

Pashupatinath Temple is located along the sacred Bagmati River in Kathmandu. It is Nepal's cultural and historical cornerstone. 

With a history of over a millennium, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with immense religious significance for Hindus worldwide. 
 

Additionally, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the god of destruction and regeneration. The temple complex is a sprawling masterpiece of ancient architecture. 
 

The majestic carvings, pagoda-style roofs, and sacred shrines create an atmosphere of spirituality. 


What makes Pashupatinath even more captivating is its role as a cremation site, where Hindus perform last rites for their departed loved ones. 

 

The ghats along the riverbank, where cremations occur, add a unique cultural dimension. Pashupatinath Temple is more than just a historical gem. 

Boudhanath

Boudhanath, or Boudha, in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a big deal! It's home to one of the world's largest stupas (a Buddhist monument). 

 

This place is not just historically cool; it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
 

The stupa is like a giant, round structure with Buddha's eyes painted on it, surrounded by colourful prayer flags. People go around it, spin prayer wheels, and say prayers—it's a spiritual spot.


Boudhanath is important for Tibetan Buddhism; monasteries and shops are nearby. The atmosphere of the boudha makes it a lively place full of culture and tradition. 

Basantapur Durbar Square 

Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu is like a magical time capsule! It's a cool place with ancient palaces, courtyards, and historical vibes. 
 

The square has these awesome buildings that kings once used, and the architecture is like a blast from the past. 

 

You can walk around, check out the cool details on the buildings, and feel like you're stepping into Nepal's royal history. 

There's a lot of energy in the air with street vendors, festivals, and people just soaking in the coolness of this historic spot. 

It's a must-visit if you want to dive into Nepal's fascinating past in a fun way!

Bhaktapur Durbar Square 

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is like a living storybook in Nepal! This awesome place, located in the heart of Bhaktapur city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
 

It's full of ancient palaces, temples, and cool open spaces. The architecture is mind-blowing, with intricate carvings and designs that tell tales of the past. 
 

Walking through the square feels like a journey back in time, and you can imagine how things were in the royal days. 


There's a special charm to Bhaktapur—street vendors selling local goodies, vibrant festivals, and the overall buzz make it a lively historical gem. 

 

It's a must-visit if you want to experience Nepal's rich history and culture in a super cool way!

Patan Durbar Square 

Patan Durbar Square is a hidden treasure in Nepal! 
 

It is tucked away in Lalitpur, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that's a total historical delight. 



This square is all about incredible Newar architecture and artistic vibes. The temples and palaces here are like masterpieces that showcase the creativity of ancient builders. 
 

You can explore courtyards, marvel at detailed carvings, and soak in the rich cultural atmosphere. Patan Durbar Square is a blend of history and art. It makes it a fantastic spot to discover Nepal's vibrant heritage. 


With its unique charm and cultural richness, it's a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the historical wonders of this beautiful country!

Syambhunath 

Swayambhunath, often called the Monkey Temple, is a super cool spot in Kathmandu, Nepal! 

 

It's a big stupa, like a Buddhist monument, perched on a hill, and it's hard to miss because of the big eyes painted on it. 

The best part? Monkeys! 
 

You'll find them chilling around the area, adding to the fun atmosphere. Swayambhunath is not just a place for Buddhists; it's open to everyone, and the views from the top are amazing. 
 

It's like a peaceful escape where you can spin prayer wheels, say "Om Mani Padme Hum," and take in the beauty of Kathmandu. 

Changunarayn 

Changu Narayan is one of the off-beaten historical places to visit in Nepal. It is nestled near Bhaktapur in Nepal and is a true hidden treasure waiting to be explored. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

The Changu Narayan Temple is a mesmerising example of ancient art and architecture. 

 

Additionally, it is decorated with intricate wood carvings and stone inscriptions that narrate captivating stories from Hindu mythology. 

Surrounded by a tranquil village with traditional Newari houses, the temple offers a peaceful escape into history and nature. 
 

While it might be a bit off the beaten path, the serene ambience and cultural richness of Changu Narayan make it a must-visit destination. 
 

To wrap up, the historical places to visit in Nepal are like travelling through time! You get to see grand palaces, beautiful temples, and peaceful monasteries, each telling stories from the past. 
 

The experts at Nepal Vision Treks make every step an opportunity to dive into Nepal's rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. 

 

FAQS

 

  1. What are the must-visit historical places in Nepal?

You can explore the top historical sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
 

  1. Why is Kathmandu Durbar Square famous?

Kathmandu Durbar Square is renowned for its historical palaces, courtyards, and temples, showcasing the grandeur of the Nepalese monarchy.
 

  1. What makes Lumbini a significant historical site?

Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha, and it houses the Maya Devi Temple and Ashoka Pillar, a pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

 

  1. Why is Pashupatinath Temple important in Hinduism?

Pashupatinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a crucial pilgrimage site for Hindus, known for its religious rituals and cremation ghats.

 

  1. What is unique about Swayambhunath Stupa?

Swayambhunath Stupa is known as the Monkey Temple and holds both Buddhist and Hindu significance, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu.

 

  1. Why is Changu Narayan Temple famous?

Changu Narayan Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley, known for its intricate wood carvings and stone inscriptions.

 

  1. What cultural experiences can one expect at Bhaktapur Durbar Square?

Bhaktapur Durbar Square offers a rich cultural experience with its ancient palaces, temples, and vibrant festivals, providing insights into Newari heritage.

 

  1. What is the historical significance of Gosaikunda?

Gosaikunda is a high-altitude alpine lake with religious significance in Hinduism, attracting trekkers and pilgrims for its breathtaking beauty.

 

  1. Why is Boudhanath Stupa a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Boudhanath Stupa is a UNESCO site known for its colossal stupa and Tibetan Buddhist influence, making it a hub for spiritual practices.