Old Kathmandu City, one of seven original cities that became modern Kathmandu, centers on the 'Durbar',or square,fronting the Royal Palace. Here, you’ll find the major temples and shrines to the Hindu gods --- of which there are many.
Nepalese Hindus come here for a glimpse of the Living Goddess, a young girl whom they believe is the Gods’ chosen representative on earth. Temporarily separated from her family, she appears regularly in a courtyard window. During festivals, she’ll tour the city in a massive chariot.
Standing guard over the nearby Monkey Gate --- through which believers pass to pray and seek absolution --- is the powerful Monkey God. It’s believed that if he spies a sinner, that person will die. So, to allow sinners entering the temple to repent, his sculptured likenesss is blindfolded.
Beyond the Palace Square and temple complex lies the Old City’s hyperactive, often overcrowded, bazaar. It’s worth fighting the crowds to see at least a block of it. Then, turn tight into a street of stores carrying superb textiles and high-quality silver, tableware and jewelry intended as much for well-to-do Nepalese as for tourists. Here’s where to do your SERIOUS shopping.