Top Places to Visit Near Sundhara, Kathmandu
Sundhara, located in the heart of Kathmandu, is one of the city’s most central and vibrant areas. Its strategic location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring Kathmandu’s historical landmarks, cultural sites, temples, and shopping hubs. Travellers staying in or near Sundhara can enjoy a mix of heritage, spirituality, and local life without having to travel far.
1. Dharahara Tower
Dharahara, also known as Bhimsen Tower, is one of the most famous landmarks in the center of Kathmandu Valley. It was first built in the 19th century and was well known for its beautiful views of the city from the top.
In 2015, a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 caused the tower to collapse. After the earthquake, the Government of Nepal started rebuilding Dharahara in 2016. The new tower was completed and inaugurated in April 2021. It is now a modern 22-storey building, replacing the old 9-storey tower that existed before the earthquake.
Although the tower was inaugurated in 2021, it officially opened to visitors on September 19, 2024, on Nepal’s Constitution Day. Today, Dharahara is a paid tourist attraction and an important heritage site in Kathmandu.
2. Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Basantapur Durbar Square, is one of the most important historical and cultural sites in Kathmandu. Located close to Sundhara, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the royal palace area of the Malla and Shah kings. Today, it is a lively place where history, culture, and daily local life come together.
Visitors can explore ancient temples, courtyards, and traditional Newari architecture while walking through Basantapur. The area is especially popular for sightseeing, photography, and experiencing Kathmandu’s rich heritage.
Popular places to visit around Basantapur Durbar Square include:
- Hanuman Dhoka Palace – the former royal palace complex
- Taleju Temple – one of the tallest and most important temples in the area
- Kumari Ghar – home of the Living Goddess, Kumari
- Kal Bhairav Temple – an important shrine dedicated to a fierce form of Lord Shiva
- Freak Street – a historic street known for cafes and shops
With its central location and many attractions nearby, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a must-visit place for travellers exploring the Sundhara and Basantapur area.
3. Historical Temples
Sundhara and the nearby Indra Chowk area are home to several historically and spiritually significant temples. These sites are ideal for travelers interested in Kathmandu’s rich religious heritage:
- Kasthamandap Temple – Near Indra Chowk and Bishal Bazaar, this iconic wooden temple is believed to have been built from a single tree and is a symbol of Kathmandu’s cultural legacy.
- Sankata Mandir – Dedicated to the goddess Sankata, it is popular among locals for blessings and protection from misfortune.
- Bhadrakali Mandir – Known for its distinctive architecture, this temple is devoted to the goddess Bhadrakali.
- Mahankal Mandir – A smaller, peaceful temple offering a quiet spot for reflection amidst the busy city.
Visiting these temples gives travelers a spiritual and cultural experience while remaining within walking distance of Sundhara.
4. Garden of Dreams
To take a break from the busy streets of Sundhara, you can visit the Garden of Dreams, a beautifully restored historical garden just a 30-minute walk from Sundhara. The garden features elegant fountains, wide walking paths, colorful flower gardens, large ponds, and lush greenery, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
It’s also a great spot for photography, a quiet stroll, or simply enjoying nature in the heart of Kathmandu. Many visitors come here to escape the city noise and spend peaceful time surrounded by beautiful landscaping and heritage architecture.
5. Shopping and Local Markets
Sundhara is a popular hub for shopping, offering a mix of modern malls and traditional markets:
- New Road – Just a short walk from Sundhara, this busy street is lined with shops selling clothes, electronics, and everyday items.
- Civil Mall, Kathmandu Mall, and People’s Plaza – Modern shopping centers featuring clothing, electronics, and a variety of local and international brands.
- Bishal Bazaar – One of the oldest malls in the area, ideal for souvenirs, local products, and unique finds.
- Local Shops – Around Sundhara, Indra Chowk, and Ason Market, visitors can explore small shops selling traditional crafts, fabrics, spices, and other Nepalese items.
- Ranjana Complex – For those interested in wholesale clothing, Sundhara is conveniently located near Ranjana Complex, making it easy for business owners to source products.
Nearby Sundhara, you can find a wide range of shopping options, from modern malls to traditional markets.
Sundhara’s central location makes it easy to explore Kathmandu’s top attractions, historical landmarks, temples, and local markets all within walking distance. After a day of sightseeing, visitors can relax and unwind at Hotel Nippon, conveniently located in Sundhara. With comfortable rooms and easy access to all nearby attractions, it serves as the perfect base for exploring Kathmandu while enjoying comfort and convenience.
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