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A List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal

Out of 1154 world heritage sites which are declared by UNESCO worldwide, Nepal is also home to 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  These UNESCO sites are categorized under 3 different segments that are cultural, natural, and mixed properties.

Nepal UNESCO World Heritage Site (Cultural)

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Located in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu Darbar has several monuments such as Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Mandir, Basantapur Tower, Nasal Chowk, Panch Mukhi Hanuman Mandir, King Mahendra Museum, Mohan Chowk, Mul Chowk and many more in its locality. There are 17th century-stone inscriptions on the campus of Hanuman Dhoka which are inscribed in 15 different languages and no one has deciphered them yet. According to Hindu Mythology, if any person interprets this inscription successfully, there would be instant milk flooding from the wall. Earlier this place was the Malla King’s royal palace and later on, it was passed on to the Shah dynasty. Till 1886, the royal family used to reside inside the Hanuman Dhoka and thereafter they sifted themselves to Narayanhiti palace.

Though this palace is still used on ceremonial occasions of rituals. There is a statue of lord Hanuman on the left entrance of the palace and you can also see magnificent sculptures of Lord Narasimha. This palace has historical reminisces of the Royal Family of Nepal such as their culture and the religion which they followed.

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Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Lies in the easter part of Kathmandu valley, Bhaktapur Durbar is also known as the abode of Nepali culture. Also known by the name of Bhadgaon this place is a fine example of craftsmanship. Every historical monument here represents the medieval culture and customs of Nepal. It is believed that Bhaktapur is the only place in Nepal that has not been affected by Western culture yet. This place is dominated by mostly the Newari population. Golden Gate, Art Gallery, and King Bhupatindra Statue are prides of Bhaktapur. There are many restaurants and hotels which are inside the palace that provide local Nepalese cuisine.

So you can enjoy the culture of Nepalese at this place while you will visit this place. Several tourists across the world visit this place in season and off-season. Nepal country also bordered by many other countries so that is why people from its neighboring countries also try to visit this place generally. So you can get a sufficient crowd of tourists and really you will enjoy this place.

Patan Durbar Square

Lying in the southeast direction of Kathmandu valley, Patan is spread over 459 hectares and is bounded by 4 stupas which were built by Maurya rulers Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC as it is prescribed in history. Patan is also known as Lalitpur as it got its name from ancient legend. One such legend states that in ancient time Kathmandu witnessed severe drought and then three people were assigned the task of summoning God Machhendranath from Kamru Kamachhya which is situated in Assam for rainfall into the Kathmandu valley.

Among the three people who were assigned the task, there was a farmer named Lalit who contributed more. When the valley finally received rainfall, out of love and respect for Lalit, people named this valley after his name and finally this place was named Lalitpur. People also refer to this place as Yala as Yalambar was king according to other legends. But history states that Patan was founded in the 3rd century by the Kirat dynasty and later on this city was reconstructed by Lichhavis and Malla dynasty. You can witness the finest traditional craft and the rich heritage of Nepal. Hari Shanker Temple, Patan Darbar Square, Mani Mandap, Jagat Narayan Temple, etc are famous tourist attractions of this city.

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Swayambhunath

Located at a distance of 3km from the west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath was a small island thousand years back according to ancient tales. In 460 AD, a stupa was built at this place by king Manadeva. This place saw the invasion of Mughal and the stupa was distorted. Later on, this place went on several renovations in the 14th century AD. In the 17th century, the architecture of this stupa was further enhanced by King Pratap Malla who added a stairway to the stupa. At present time, it is a solid hemisphere of brick and clay which is supported by a conical spire of copper gilt. It has Lord Buddha’s eyes adorned on all four sides of the base. This place kept a prominent place in Buddhism. You can also get a majestic view of Kathmandu valley from Swayambhunath. This place is specially known as the Buddhist place but it does not mean only any specific religion or caste people visit to this place, Every religious people & tourists wants to visit this Place and wants to explore about the history of this place.

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Pashupati Nath Temple

Dedicated to lord Shiva, Pashupati Nath temple is one of the sacred places of Hindus which were visited by millions of pilgrims every year. This temple is located on the bank of the Bagmati river which is 5km in the eastern part of Kathmandu valley. This beautiful temple has a two-tiered roof and it has four silver doors. The entrance of non-Hindu is strictly prohibited inside this temple. Devotees of Shiva from every corner of the globe came here to pay their homage.

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Boudhanath

An epitome of Tibetan Buddhism, Boudhanath is located at a distance of just 8 km from Kathmandu. It was built by Licchavis ruler King Man Dev in the 5th century AD. Built on an octagonal base, the Boudhanath stupa is regarded as one of the world’s biggest stupa representing Buddha and his teaching. After the invasion of China in1959, thousand of Tibetans came to this place and energized this stupa. Boudhanath is surrounded by various temples and the atmosphere of this place is mesmerizing. Boudhanath is lightened up with zest and there is the fragrance of incense drift everywhere in the air. This place is one of the prime sights for visitors in the country.

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Changunarayan Temple

Situated just 15 km away from Kathmandu city, Changunarayan is a two-tiered temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple derived it named so because Lord Vishnu is also known as Narayan and this temple is located in Changu. A stone inscription is found which is dated back to 464 AD and a few other architectural masterpieces are featured in the temple showcasing the brilliance of the architect and ancient history of Nepal. This temple also boar the idol of Vishnu’s ten incarnations that is Vishwaroop. Vishnu riding Garuda, Narasimha etc. Kileswar temple and Chhinamasta Devi are other famous temples which are located in the close vicinity of Changunarayan temple. You will also get a majestic view of the Manohara River nearby the temple. 

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Lumbini

Located in the southwestern Terai belt of Nepal. Lumbini Is located at a distance of 300 km from Kathmandu. This place is considered to be the birthplace of Siddharth who was later renamed as Gautam Buddha and thereafter this place became the sacred pilgrim site of Buddhism.  Mauryan Ruler, emperor Ashok after becoming Buddhist, visit Lumbini in 250 BC and he built a large stone pillar that contains an inscription about the birth of Lord Buddha. This city does not bear only religious and historical significance but also has cultural importance.  Lumbini garden, Tara foundation, China Temple, and Thai Monestry are the famous tourist attraction of Lumbini. The Buddhist Museum and Research Center is also located in the city. Lumbini is also a perfect birding destination as you may witness some rare species of birds here.

Nepal UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural)

In Nepal not only cultural and heritage places are here in UNESCO world heritage list, some natural places of this country also listed here as world heritgae sites that you can explore. As we know in Nepal you can find mountains, greenery, peak of Himalayas and more ,so there are many natural or adventurous places to enjoy, but two national park from them are also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Find here listed places below.

Chitwan National Park

Spread in an area of 932 sq. km, Chitwan Park is located in the inner Tarai Belt of Chitwan. Jungle safari inside Chitwan National park is widely famous among its tourist. In Chitwan, nature is at its peak and you will witness some of the rarest species of the ecosystem. You will have an encounter with a crocodile while you were canoeing through the lake of this national park and it will add more adventure to your trip. Make sure to stay in the resort which is inside the park as they will guide you and take you on a cultural tour which will make you aware of the lifestyle of the people of Chitwan.

You can also indulge yourself in the events of your choice in the night-time.  one of the very popular national park that is home to many species of animals and birds you can find here plenty of wildlife to explore. if you loves to visit the places and want to spend your quality time in between the wilds and nature then you must visit to this place. so if you are planning to visit Nepal then list this place in your travel bucket list.

Sagarmatha National Park

Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, Sagarmatha National Park is spread over an area of 1,148 square kilometers. This park offers you magnificent views of mountains, valleys, and glaciers. This national park is home to several endangered plants, birds, and animal species. Plants such as blue pine, birch, and silver fir increase the beauty of this park manyfold. While exploring the park, there is plenty of chances that you may encounter rare species like snow leopards, lynx, pandas, etc. If you are a birdwatcher, then this place is heaven for you as you will get the best sightseeing experience of viewing some rare bird species like snow Reagan, snow cock, etc.

So these are the listed UNESCO World Heritage sites listed in Nepal which are very popular for tourists who loves to find out some places who explain the histroy and culture of that particular place. These places are specially listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal, so that's why the people form wants to visit these places across the world.

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