September 25, 2024 • 23 mins
In this episode of Global Treasures, we visit Kathmandu Valley, known for its artistic and religious symbolism. Located in Nepal and established as a world heritage site in 1979, we will discuss the history, architecture, food, legends, travel tips and more.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Abigail (00:00):
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries.
Keith (00:05):
Where culture and nature intertwine to create something truly extraordinary.
Abigail (00:09):
That's the inherent beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail.
Keith (00:16):
And I'm Keith.
Abigail (00:18):
And this is Global Treasures, the podcast that covers the history, travel
tips, and legends surrounding one of the1,223 World Heritage Sites each episode.
Keith (00:30):
These places have been identified as having universal,
cultural, or natural significance
Abigail (00:35):
that is so exceptional that it transcends national
boundaries and is of importanceto present and future generations.
Keith (00:43):
Welcome to season two, where we're going to explore the
45 sites that UNESCO added in 1979
Abigail (00:53):
In this episode, keith and I will be introducing you to Kathmandu
Valley, located in the country of Nepal.
Nestled in the foothills of themajestic Himalayas, the Kathmandu
Valley is a geographical wonder.
that has shaped the culture andhistory of Nepal for millennia.
Imagine, if you will, a vast bowl cradledby five mountain ranges, its lowest point
(01:20):
resting at 1, 425 meters, or 4, 675 feetabove sea level, while the surrounding
peaks reach up to 2, 762 meters.
or 9,062 feet.
Keith (01:37):
This is a place where ancient traditions blend seamlessly
with breathtaking natural beauty.
What is the Kathmandu Valley?
Well, imagine a vast, fertile valleycradled in the lap of the Himalayas,
dotted with ancient cities, ornatetemples, and bustling marketplaces.
Abigail (01:55):
This natural fortress, spanning 220 square miles, is
divided into three districts.
Katmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur.
At its heart flows the sacredBhagmati River, a lifeline that has
nourished civilizations for centuries.
(02:15):
The valley's unique geography has notonly protected it from invaders, but also
created a microclimate that has alloweda rich tapestry of cultures to flourish.
Keith (02:26):
This valley is home to seven groups of monuments and buildings that
showcase the full range of historicand artistic achievements that have
made the Kathmandu Valley world famous.
At the heart of this UNESCO World HeritageSite are three awe inspiring Durbar
squares Kathmandu, Pathan, and Bhaktapur.
These royal squares, with their intricatepalaces, courtyards, and temples,
(02:50):
Serve as living museums of Nepaleseart and architecture, but the valley's
cultural tapestry doesn't end there.
It also includes two of the mostsacred Buddhist stupidest in the
region, Swayambhu and Boudhanath, aswell as two revered Hindu temples,
Pashupatinath, and Changu Narayan.
Abigail (03:10):
What makes the Kathmandu Valley truly unique is how it embodies the
coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism,two of the world's great religions.
This spiritual harmony is reflectedin the valley's architecture and daily
life, creating a cultural landscapethat's both diverse and unified.
(03:31):
Now let's talk about the architecturethat makes this place so special.
The Kathmandu Valley is a treasuretrove of architectural marvels,
each telling a story of the region'srich history and spiritual devotion.
Keith (03:47):
The architecture of the Durbar Squares is a testament to the artistic
genius of the Newar people, thehistorical inhabitants of the valley.
These squares feature an array oftemples, palaces, and public squares
that showcase a distinctive blendof Hindu and Buddhist elements.
You'll find Pagoda style templeswith their multiple tiered roofs,
(04:08):
shikhara style temples with theirsoaring spires, and the unique Newari
style that combines elements of both.
Take the Nyunatapola templein Bhaktapur, for instance.
This five story pagoda is amasterpiece of Nepali architecture,
with each level symbolizing thefive basic elements of nature.
(04:29):
Its perfectly proportioned tiersseem to reach for the sky, a stunning
example of the vertical emphasisin Nepalese temple architecture.
Abigail (04:38):
The Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu and Boudhanath offer a
different architectural experience.
These massive dome shaped structuresare not just impressive in size,
but also in their symbolic design.
The dome represents the entire universe.
While the 13 tiers of the spiresymbolize the 13 steps to enlightenment.
(05:03):
The all seeing eyes of the Buddha,painted on all four sides of the
spire, gaze out in every direction,reminding visitors of the omnipresent
nature of Buddhist teachings.
Keith (05:15):
On the Hindu side, the Pashpatinath temple complex showcases classic
Nepalese architecture with its twotiered golden roof and silver doors.
The intricate wood carvings and metalworkthat adorn these structures are an
absolute testament to the incrediblecraftsmanship of these Nepalese artisans.
And one cannot talk about the architectureof Kathmandu Valley without mentioning
(05:38):
the unique urban fabric of its cities.
In places like Patan, you'll findcourtyards adorned with caityas,
buddhist shrines that serve as constantreminders of the teachings of Buddha.
Abigail (05:52):
Kathmandu Valley really has evolved over centuries, absorbing
influences from various dynasties andneighboring cultures, yet maintaining
its distinct Nepalese character,from the early Licchavi period
to the Malla dynasty and beyond.
Each era has left its mark on thevalley's architectural landscape.
Keith (06:13):
Now, let's take a journey through time.
The history of Kathmandu Valleys islayered and complex as the terrain itself.
Our story begins around 300 B.
C.
with the earliest known artifactsthat we've found in the valley.
But it's not until 185 B.
C.
that we find the first inscriptions,tangible evidence of the earliest history
(06:34):
of the people that settled this valley.
The valley's recorded history startsin earnest during the Licchavi
period, around the fourth century C.
E.
This era saw the emergence of Buddhismin the valley, with legend holding
that Charumati, a daughter of thegreat Mauryan emperor Ashoka, erected
four stupas around the city of Patan.
(06:55):
These structures would becomethe cornerstones of the
valley's Buddhist heritage.
As we move into the 7thcentury, we see the valley
flourishing under Licchavi rule.
In 723 CE, Raja Gunakamedevafounded Kathmandu, setting the
stage for centuries of artisticand architectural achievements.
(07:17):
The Licchavi period left an indeliblemark on the valley's culture,
with Sanskrit literature, art, andarchitecture reaching new heights.
Abigail (07:26):
The medieval period ushered in the Malla dynasty, which ruled
from the 12th to the 18th century.
This was truly a golden agefor the Kathmandu Valley.
The period between 1500 and 1800 CE wasparticularly significant, marking the
zenith of Nepalese art and architecture.
(07:48):
During this time, the uniquecultural traditions of the Newars,
The historical inhabitants ofthe valley, reached their peak.
Keith (07:56):
Under Malla rule, the valley was divided into three separate kingdoms,
Kathmandu, Bhutan, and Bhaktapur.
This division, while politicallycomplex, sparked a, almost a
creative rivalry that resulted inthe construction of magnificent
palaces and temples in each city.
The Durbar squares we admiretoday are largely the product of
(08:18):
this era of artistic competition.
But the winds of change were blowing.
In 1768, the Gurkha forces of PrithiviNarayan Shah conquered Kathmandu,
unifying Nepal, but forever changingthe political landscape of the valley.
This marked the beginning of the Shahdynasty and the end of Malla rule.
Abigail (08:39):
The 19th century brought both progress and turmoil.
In 1846, the state ofMaharashtra was destroyed.
The Kot Massacre led to the rise ofthe Rana dynasty, who became the de
facto rulers of Nepal while keepingthe Shah kings as figureheads.
The Ranas left their mark on thevalley's architecture, building grand
(09:00):
neoclassical palaces that stand in starkcontrast to the traditional Newari style.
Keith (09:06):
As we enter the 20th century, We see the valley continuing to evolve.
There was a devastating earthquake in1934 that reshaped much of the urban
landscape, destroying many of theancient buildings, but also spurring
efforts to preserve and restore thevalley's architectural heritage.
The mid 20th century broughtsignificant political changes.
(09:28):
In 1951, The Rana regime wasoverthrown and the Shah Kings
once again took direct control.
This period saw rapid modernization andurbanization of the valley, sometimes at
the cost of its traditional character.
Abigail (09:44):
A pivotal moment came in 1979 when the Kathmandu Valley
was designated as a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site, marking a new era of
conservation and global recognition.
This status highlighted the valley'sexceptional cultural value and spurred
efforts to preserve its unique heritage.
Keith (10:05):
Recent history has brought both challenges and opportunities.
The Nepalese Civil War from 1996 to 2006and the abolition of the monarchy in 2008
led to dramatic political instability.
But, also opened new chaptersin the valley's Long history.
Another devastating earthquake in2015 once again, tested the resilience
(10:28):
of the valley's people, and ofcourse of its ancient monuments.
Abigail (10:32):
Today, Kathmandu Valley stands as a vibrant testament
to its long and complex history.
It's a place where ancienttraditions coexist with modern
development, where timelessmonuments stand alongside bustling
markets and contemporary buildings.
As we walk its streets and admireits temples, we're not just seeing
(10:56):
static relics of the past, but livinghistory that continues to shape
the present and future of Nepal.
Keith (11:04):
As we've journeyed through the rich tapestry of the Kathmandu
Valley's history, from ancient legendsto modern challenges, you might find
yourself, as I am, itching to experiencethis remarkable place firsthand.
After all, there's nothing quitelike standing in the shadow of a
centuries old temple or wanderingthrough bustling medieval squares to
truly appreciate the depth of historyand the culture we've just explored.
(11:28):
But visiting a place as complexand multifaceted as the Kathmandu
Valley requires, hm, someinsider knowledge ahead of time.
I mean, how do you navigate thisblend of ancient and modern?
What are the must see sites that willbring our historical narrative to life?
And, how can you experience theculture, not just its monuments?
So let's dive into the practical detailsof visiting this beautiful valley.
(11:49):
From tips on the best times to visit, toguidance on respectful temple etiquette,
to even suggestions for experiencingthe valley's famous festivals, Abigail's
got you covered just like every time.
So let's dig into learning abouthow to visit this remarkable
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Abigail (12:06):
If you're coming in from another country, you'll want to fly
into Cherbouvin International Airport.
I personally would not recommend getting arental car to get around because the roads
throughout the country can be quite rough.
Although, I will note the country isworking on building out the road system.
So for those of you traveling here in thefuture, it might be a different story.
(12:29):
But for now, you may want to ask yourhotel if they have recommendations
for licensed taxi companies, as Nepaldoesn't have a lot of the usual rideshare
apps like in Europe or North America.
In terms of getting tickets, I wouldsuggest taking one of the UNESCO
guided tours that takes you tomany of the Kathmandu Valley sites,
(12:52):
including the Golden Temple, KathmanduDurbar Square, and the Patan Museum.
The sites are spread out,and navigating getting to all
of them can be a bit tricky.
So, having someone who speaks the languagecoordinate entry fees, Transportation
to each site, and all of the otherpieces is probably worth the money.
(13:15):
I also would recommend booking these toursfar in advance whenever possible, too.
Keith (13:21):
So I'm imagining there's also a lot of other things to do besides
just the World Heritage Sites.
What are some other things that people cankind of like put together with this trip?
Abigail (13:30):
Oh, like other things to bundle?
Well, if you're feeling brave,you can take a beautiful cable
car ride up through the mountains.
This is definitely not arecommended excursion if you're
afraid of heights, though.
These gondolas take you up more than8, 000 feet, but you are guaranteed
to get some incredible pictures.
(13:50):
And honestly, this is just areally picturesque country, so
photographers are going to havea field day when traveling here.
Speaking of brave, manyalso try to attempt to climb
Mount Everest while in Nepal.
Just know that you can't actually driveto the Nepalese side of Everest, so
you'd have to get there by helicopter.
(14:12):
But again, I would bet the ride isgorgeous and worth it just for the
views, even though It is not cheap.
This is also a prime place to hike, evenif you don't make it to Everest proper.
Keith (14:25):
So this is a place where many, many people want to visit.
And I'm sure people are wondering ifthere are options for a place to stay
outside of the major chain hotels,which I'm sure are in the city.
So what other options did you dig up?
Abigail (14:39):
Oh yes, plenty of choices.
So beyond the major chain hotels,I mean, there are five star hotels
that are not related to a chain.
There are hostels.
There are homestay options that arerelatively inexpensive, so you'll be fine.
Keith (14:56):
So I'm sure that the language that is spoken in Nepal is Nepali,
but I'm curious if you can get by withany other languages for the basics.
So, what other languagesmight be useful in this case?
Abigail (15:06):
Yes, Nepali is the official language.
English may be spoken insome touristy areas, but I
honestly wouldn't count on it.
I would recommend having atranslation app in your phone.
Also, I want to sharesome general travel tips.
In terms of safety, bring bugspray and water purification
(15:28):
tablets or bottled water.
Otherwise, you may want to boilwater before consuming it when
you're there to prevent illness.
And please do not buy bottledwater off of the street either.
It could be an empty bottle that'sjust been refilled with tap water.
Keith (15:45):
Yeah, these are all good, timeless tips.
Now, can we talk about the food?
I did a little bit of research intothis as I was researching for the
other sections, and I have to behonest, I'm pretty excited about it.
It sounds fantastic.
Abigail (15:58):
Yeah, the food really does sound great.
The standout dishes to try include DalBhat, which is rice and cooked lentils.
Usually seasoned with onion,garlic, cumin, and maybe turmeric.
Another dish is momo, which are steameddumplings filled with meat, potatoes,
(16:19):
other vegetables, and local cheeses.
Oh, and along the same lines, I shouldhave mentioned this before when talking
about other things to do in the area.
I saw a host of cookingclasses, which surprised me.
So you can book those if that's somethingyou'd like to do while visiting.
They seem to be very popular.
Keith (16:39):
In my humble opinion, nothing gets you closer to the culture
than cooking food with locals.
All right, so I bet this isa prime place that's full of
legends and paranormal activity.
Given the incredible unique history.
So this is your section.
What'd you dig up this time?
Abigail (16:54):
Primarily my research kept bringing me back to
the legend of the Yeti.
This may not surprise some of you.
This is an ape-like creature thatsupposedly resides in the Himalayas and
is the equivalent to the Bigfoot legendwe have here in the United States.
He's sometimes referred toas the abominable snowman.
(17:17):
Many have reported sightings with fewpieces of physical evidence like photos
or videos, so the Yeti is usuallydescribed as being 7 to 8 feet tall,
with white hair, sometimes brown.
Sightings started all the way backin the early 1830s, with trekkers
(17:37):
and naturalists, who claimed tohave seen a big hairy creature.
Though, again, manythought it was just an ape.
Reports skyrocketed, as Westernersattempted to hike the area with
new, safer equipment, becomingmore affordable for the masses.
Even Sir Edmund Hillary, The first climberto reach the summit of Mount Everest went
(18:02):
up to the Himalayas in the early 1960s totry to find evidence that the Yeti exists.
Keith (18:09):
So for those of us who are a bit skeptical of the paranormal
Yeti Bigfoot stuff, we're Whatcould be the scientific explanation?
Abigail (18:17):
Well, most believe the Yeti is just a bear.
The Tibetan blue bear, for example,is quite rare, and they're gigantic.
However, the Yeti has made hismark all over popular culture
nonetheless, from horror movies tobeing selected as the mascot for
Nepal's 2020 advertising campaign.
(18:39):
So again, whether or nothe's real, People love him.
I mean, he's adorable and hecertainly captured our imagination.
Keith (18:47):
So as I was researching the history, I kept coming across this
legend about how the valley used tobe a lake and was emptied of water
way back in history at the dawn ofthe civilization of this valley.
This just kept popping up when I wasdoing my research and it looked like there
was a million different versions of it.
What'd you find out about this?
Abigail (19:06):
Yeah, you're right.
That's an important one.
So I'll try to distill this in anutshell because there are many
different versions as with any legend.
So, supposedly, the Valley ofKathmandu was previously a lake whose
surface was covered in lotuses, whichare better known as water lilies.
(19:27):
According to legend.
Bodhisattva Manjushri saw a flameshoot out of one of the water lilies.
He was curious and wantedto get a better look.
He took his sword of wisdom andcut a gorge near Chobar Hill,
just southwest of Kathmandu.
The water from the lake emptied out,bringing into existence the valley
(19:50):
of Kathmandu as we know it today.
The lotus that shot out the flameturned into the Swayambhunath
Stupa, which is a shrine that isconsidered to be sacred to Buddhists.
However, according to some versions ofthe story, Lord Krishna was actually the
one who cut his way through the gorgewith not a sword, but a thunderbolt,
(20:14):
and resultingly emptied the waterthat diluged the Kathmandu Valley.
Keith (20:19):
Okay, so let's end by talking about what's being done to protect Kathmandu.
Is it considered to beendangered by UNESCO?
So many of these sites we talkabout need some major attention.
Abigail (20:31):
Right on.
Well, I already established beforethat the roads need some work, so they
need to work on the infrastructure.
But from 2003 to 2007, Kathmandu Valleywas listed as endangered by UNESCO.
Major factors for that include theimpactful earthquakes the country
experiences, which aren't man made,unlike many of the issues we've
(20:54):
talked about in other episodes.
Thankfully, the earthquake damagedmonuments were restored and staff
used this as a means to learn how tobetter protect the site for the future.
Air transport infrastructure doesaffect Kathmandu Valley as well.
So the government of Nepal wants to extendKathmandu International Airport, but that
(21:17):
would negatively impact the site due toincreased air pollution from emissions
from the planes and excessive noise.
Anyone who's ever lived near anairport can likely attest to that.
So all of this will have tocontinue to be monitored.
That being said, I'm soexcited to visit this site.
Thank you for listening tothe Global Treasures Podcast.
(21:39):
If you would like to support the show, youcan subscribe to Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or wherever you get your podcasts.
You can also check us outon YouTube and TikTok.
Keith (21:50):
So if you've enjoyed our journey through the mystical Kathmandu
Valley, We'd both be incrediblygrateful if you could take a moment to
leave us a five star written review.
Your feedback not only helps fellowcultural enthusiasts discover our
show, but also fuels our passionfor showcasing these extraordinary
UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Whether it's a brief comment or a detailedreflection, each review contributes
(22:13):
to our mission of preserving andcelebrating our shared global heritage.
Abigail (22:19):
We're deeply appreciative of all of our listeners who help spread the word
about these incredible landmarks, andthe rich tapestry of stories they hold.
Keith (22:27):
Now, Get ready to trade your city shoes for hiking boots as we
prepare for our next adventure.
We're heading north into the vastwilderness of Kluane, Wrangell-St.
Elias, Glacier Bay, Tatshenshini-Alsek,straddling the border of
Canada and the United States.
This awe inspiring region is home tosome of the world's most spectacular
landscapes, featuring massive ice fields,rugged mountains, and pristine forests.
(22:51):
From the largest non polar ice fieldin the world, to North America's
highest peak, we'll explore a realmwhere nature reigns supreme and the raw
power of glacial forces shape the land.
Until then, keep your spirit ofadventure alive and your curiosity for
our planet's wonders burning bright.
The next chapter in our globalexploration of Earth's most
(23:12):
magnificent natural treasures awaits.
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries.
Keith (00:05):
Where culture and nature intertwine to create something truly extraordinary.
Abigail (00:09):
That's the inherent beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail.
Keith (00:16):
And I'm Keith.
Abigail (00:18):
And this is Global Treasures, the podcast that covers the history, travel
tips, and legends surrounding one of the1,223 World Heritage Sites each episode.
Keith (00:30):
These places have been identified as having universal,
cultural, or natural significance
Abigail (00:35):
that is so exceptional that it transcends national
boundaries and is of importanceto present and future generations.
Keith (00:43):
Welcome to season two, where we're going to explore the
45 sites that UNESCO added in 1979
Abigail (00:53):
In this episode, keith and I will be introducing you to Kathmandu
Valley, located in the country of Nepal.
Nestled in the foothills of themajestic Himalayas, the Kathmandu
Valley is a geographical wonder.
that has shaped the culture andhistory of Nepal for millennia.
Imagine, if you will, a vast bowl cradledby five mountain ranges, its lowest point
(01:20):
resting at 1, 425 meters, or 4, 675 feetabove sea level, while the surrounding
peaks reach up to 2, 762 meters.
or 9,062 feet.
Keith (01:37):
This is a place where ancient traditions blend seamlessly
with breathtaking natural beauty.
What is the Kathmandu Valley?
Well, imagine a vast, fertile valleycradled in the lap of the Himalayas,
dotted with ancient cities, ornatetemples, and bustling marketplaces.
Abigail (01:55):
This natural fortress, spanning 220 square miles, is
divided into three districts.
Katmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur.
At its heart flows the sacredBhagmati River, a lifeline that has
nourished civilizations for centuries.
(02:15):
The valley's unique geography has notonly protected it from invaders, but also
created a microclimate that has alloweda rich tapestry of cultures to flourish.
Keith (02:26):
This valley is home to seven groups of monuments and buildings that
showcase the full range of historicand artistic achievements that have
made the Kathmandu Valley world famous.
At the heart of this UNESCO World HeritageSite are three awe inspiring Durbar
squares Kathmandu, Pathan, and Bhaktapur.
These royal squares, with their intricatepalaces, courtyards, and temples,
(02:50):
Serve as living museums of Nepaleseart and architecture, but the valley's
cultural tapestry doesn't end there.
It also includes two of the mostsacred Buddhist stupidest in the
region, Swayambhu and Boudhanath, aswell as two revered Hindu temples,
Pashupatinath, and Changu Narayan.
Abigail (03:10):
What makes the Kathmandu Valley truly unique is how it embodies the
coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism,two of the world's great religions.
This spiritual harmony is reflectedin the valley's architecture and daily
life, creating a cultural landscapethat's both diverse and unified.
(03:31):
Now let's talk about the architecturethat makes this place so special.
The Kathmandu Valley is a treasuretrove of architectural marvels,
each telling a story of the region'srich history and spiritual devotion.
Keith (03:47):
The architecture of the Durbar Squares is a testament to the artistic
genius of the Newar people, thehistorical inhabitants of the valley.
These squares feature an array oftemples, palaces, and public squares
that showcase a distinctive blendof Hindu and Buddhist elements.
You'll find Pagoda style templeswith their multiple tiered roofs,
(04:08):
shikhara style temples with theirsoaring spires, and the unique Newari
style that combines elements of both.
Take the Nyunatapola templein Bhaktapur, for instance.
This five story pagoda is amasterpiece of Nepali architecture,
with each level symbolizing thefive basic elements of nature.
(04:29):
Its perfectly proportioned tiersseem to reach for the sky, a stunning
example of the vertical emphasisin Nepalese temple architecture.
Abigail (04:38):
The Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu and Boudhanath offer a
different architectural experience.
These massive dome shaped structuresare not just impressive in size,
but also in their symbolic design.
The dome represents the entire universe.
While the 13 tiers of the spiresymbolize the 13 steps to enlightenment.
(05:03):
The all seeing eyes of the Buddha,painted on all four sides of the
spire, gaze out in every direction,reminding visitors of the omnipresent
nature of Buddhist teachings.
Keith (05:15):
On the Hindu side, the Pashpatinath temple complex showcases classic
Nepalese architecture with its twotiered golden roof and silver doors.
The intricate wood carvings and metalworkthat adorn these structures are an
absolute testament to the incrediblecraftsmanship of these Nepalese artisans.
And one cannot talk about the architectureof Kathmandu Valley without mentioning
(05:38):
the unique urban fabric of its cities.
In places like Patan, you'll findcourtyards adorned with caityas,
buddhist shrines that serve as constantreminders of the teachings of Buddha.
Abigail (05:52):
Kathmandu Valley really has evolved over centuries, absorbing
influences from various dynasties andneighboring cultures, yet maintaining
its distinct Nepalese character,from the early Licchavi period
to the Malla dynasty and beyond.
Each era has left its mark on thevalley's architectural landscape.
Keith (06:13):
Now, let's take a journey through time.
The history of Kathmandu Valleys islayered and complex as the terrain itself.
Our story begins around 300 B.
C.
with the earliest known artifactsthat we've found in the valley.
But it's not until 185 B.
C.
that we find the first inscriptions,tangible evidence of the earliest history
(06:34):
of the people that settled this valley.
The valley's recorded history startsin earnest during the Licchavi
period, around the fourth century C.
E.
This era saw the emergence of Buddhismin the valley, with legend holding
that Charumati, a daughter of thegreat Mauryan emperor Ashoka, erected
four stupas around the city of Patan.
(06:55):
These structures would becomethe cornerstones of the
valley's Buddhist heritage.
As we move into the 7thcentury, we see the valley
flourishing under Licchavi rule.
In 723 CE, Raja Gunakamedevafounded Kathmandu, setting the
stage for centuries of artisticand architectural achievements.
(07:17):
The Licchavi period left an indeliblemark on the valley's culture,
with Sanskrit literature, art, andarchitecture reaching new heights.
Abigail (07:26):
The medieval period ushered in the Malla dynasty, which ruled
from the 12th to the 18th century.
This was truly a golden agefor the Kathmandu Valley.
The period between 1500 and 1800 CE wasparticularly significant, marking the
zenith of Nepalese art and architecture.
(07:48):
During this time, the uniquecultural traditions of the Newars,
The historical inhabitants ofthe valley, reached their peak.
Keith (07:56):
Under Malla rule, the valley was divided into three separate kingdoms,
Kathmandu, Bhutan, and Bhaktapur.
This division, while politicallycomplex, sparked a, almost a
creative rivalry that resulted inthe construction of magnificent
palaces and temples in each city.
The Durbar squares we admiretoday are largely the product of
(08:18):
this era of artistic competition.
But the winds of change were blowing.
In 1768, the Gurkha forces of PrithiviNarayan Shah conquered Kathmandu,
unifying Nepal, but forever changingthe political landscape of the valley.
This marked the beginning of the Shahdynasty and the end of Malla rule.
Abigail (08:39):
The 19th century brought both progress and turmoil.
In 1846, the state ofMaharashtra was destroyed.
The Kot Massacre led to the rise ofthe Rana dynasty, who became the de
facto rulers of Nepal while keepingthe Shah kings as figureheads.
The Ranas left their mark on thevalley's architecture, building grand
(09:00):
neoclassical palaces that stand in starkcontrast to the traditional Newari style.
Keith (09:06):
As we enter the 20th century, We see the valley continuing to evolve.
There was a devastating earthquake in1934 that reshaped much of the urban
landscape, destroying many of theancient buildings, but also spurring
efforts to preserve and restore thevalley's architectural heritage.
The mid 20th century broughtsignificant political changes.
(09:28):
In 1951, The Rana regime wasoverthrown and the Shah Kings
once again took direct control.
This period saw rapid modernization andurbanization of the valley, sometimes at
the cost of its traditional character.
Abigail (09:44):
A pivotal moment came in 1979 when the Kathmandu Valley
was designated as a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site, marking a new era of
conservation and global recognition.
This status highlighted the valley'sexceptional cultural value and spurred
efforts to preserve its unique heritage.
Keith (10:05):
Recent history has brought both challenges and opportunities.
The Nepalese Civil War from 1996 to 2006and the abolition of the monarchy in 2008
led to dramatic political instability.
But, also opened new chaptersin the valley's Long history.
Another devastating earthquake in2015 once again, tested the resilience
(10:28):
of the valley's people, and ofcourse of its ancient monuments.
Abigail (10:32):
Today, Kathmandu Valley stands as a vibrant testament
to its long and complex history.
It's a place where ancienttraditions coexist with modern
development, where timelessmonuments stand alongside bustling
markets and contemporary buildings.
As we walk its streets and admireits temples, we're not just seeing
(10:56):
static relics of the past, but livinghistory that continues to shape
the present and future of Nepal.
Keith (11:04):
As we've journeyed through the rich tapestry of the Kathmandu
Valley's history, from ancient legendsto modern challenges, you might find
yourself, as I am, itching to experiencethis remarkable place firsthand.
After all, there's nothing quitelike standing in the shadow of a
centuries old temple or wanderingthrough bustling medieval squares to
truly appreciate the depth of historyand the culture we've just explored.
(11:28):
But visiting a place as complexand multifaceted as the Kathmandu
Valley requires, hm, someinsider knowledge ahead of time.
I mean, how do you navigate thisblend of ancient and modern?
What are the must see sites that willbring our historical narrative to life?
And, how can you experience theculture, not just its monuments?
So let's dive into the practical detailsof visiting this beautiful valley.
(11:49):
From tips on the best times to visit, toguidance on respectful temple etiquette,
to even suggestions for experiencingthe valley's famous festivals, Abigail's
got you covered just like every time.
So let's dig into learning abouthow to visit this remarkable
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Abigail (12:06):
If you're coming in from another country, you'll want to fly
into Cherbouvin International Airport.
I personally would not recommend getting arental car to get around because the roads
throughout the country can be quite rough.
Although, I will note the country isworking on building out the road system.
So for those of you traveling here in thefuture, it might be a different story.
(12:29):
But for now, you may want to ask yourhotel if they have recommendations
for licensed taxi companies, as Nepaldoesn't have a lot of the usual rideshare
apps like in Europe or North America.
In terms of getting tickets, I wouldsuggest taking one of the UNESCO
guided tours that takes you tomany of the Kathmandu Valley sites,
(12:52):
including the Golden Temple, KathmanduDurbar Square, and the Patan Museum.
The sites are spread out,and navigating getting to all
of them can be a bit tricky.
So, having someone who speaks the languagecoordinate entry fees, Transportation
to each site, and all of the otherpieces is probably worth the money.
(13:15):
I also would recommend booking these toursfar in advance whenever possible, too.
Keith (13:21):
So I'm imagining there's also a lot of other things to do besides
just the World Heritage Sites.
What are some other things that people cankind of like put together with this trip?
Abigail (13:30):
Oh, like other things to bundle?
Well, if you're feeling brave,you can take a beautiful cable
car ride up through the mountains.
This is definitely not arecommended excursion if you're
afraid of heights, though.
These gondolas take you up more than8, 000 feet, but you are guaranteed
to get some incredible pictures.
(13:50):
And honestly, this is just areally picturesque country, so
photographers are going to havea field day when traveling here.
Speaking of brave, manyalso try to attempt to climb
Mount Everest while in Nepal.
Just know that you can't actually driveto the Nepalese side of Everest, so
you'd have to get there by helicopter.
(14:12):
But again, I would bet the ride isgorgeous and worth it just for the
views, even though It is not cheap.
This is also a prime place to hike, evenif you don't make it to Everest proper.
Keith (14:25):
So this is a place where many, many people want to visit.
And I'm sure people are wondering ifthere are options for a place to stay
outside of the major chain hotels,which I'm sure are in the city.
So what other options did you dig up?
Abigail (14:39):
Oh yes, plenty of choices.
So beyond the major chain hotels,I mean, there are five star hotels
that are not related to a chain.
There are hostels.
There are homestay options that arerelatively inexpensive, so you'll be fine.
Keith (14:56):
So I'm sure that the language that is spoken in Nepal is Nepali,
but I'm curious if you can get by withany other languages for the basics.
So, what other languagesmight be useful in this case?
Abigail (15:06):
Yes, Nepali is the official language.
English may be spoken insome touristy areas, but I
honestly wouldn't count on it.
I would recommend having atranslation app in your phone.
Also, I want to sharesome general travel tips.
In terms of safety, bring bugspray and water purification
(15:28):
tablets or bottled water.
Otherwise, you may want to boilwater before consuming it when
you're there to prevent illness.
And please do not buy bottledwater off of the street either.
It could be an empty bottle that'sjust been refilled with tap water.
Keith (15:45):
Yeah, these are all good, timeless tips.
Now, can we talk about the food?
I did a little bit of research intothis as I was researching for the
other sections, and I have to behonest, I'm pretty excited about it.
It sounds fantastic.
Abigail (15:58):
Yeah, the food really does sound great.
The standout dishes to try include DalBhat, which is rice and cooked lentils.
Usually seasoned with onion,garlic, cumin, and maybe turmeric.
Another dish is momo, which are steameddumplings filled with meat, potatoes,
(16:19):
other vegetables, and local cheeses.
Oh, and along the same lines, I shouldhave mentioned this before when talking
about other things to do in the area.
I saw a host of cookingclasses, which surprised me.
So you can book those if that's somethingyou'd like to do while visiting.
They seem to be very popular.
Keith (16:39):
In my humble opinion, nothing gets you closer to the culture
than cooking food with locals.
All right, so I bet this isa prime place that's full of
legends and paranormal activity.
Given the incredible unique history.
So this is your section.
What'd you dig up this time?
Abigail (16:54):
Primarily my research kept bringing me back to
the legend of the Yeti.
This may not surprise some of you.
This is an ape-like creature thatsupposedly resides in the Himalayas and
is the equivalent to the Bigfoot legendwe have here in the United States.
He's sometimes referred toas the abominable snowman.
(17:17):
Many have reported sightings with fewpieces of physical evidence like photos
or videos, so the Yeti is usuallydescribed as being 7 to 8 feet tall,
with white hair, sometimes brown.
Sightings started all the way backin the early 1830s, with trekkers
(17:37):
and naturalists, who claimed tohave seen a big hairy creature.
Though, again, manythought it was just an ape.
Reports skyrocketed, as Westernersattempted to hike the area with
new, safer equipment, becomingmore affordable for the masses.
Even Sir Edmund Hillary, The first climberto reach the summit of Mount Everest went
(18:02):
up to the Himalayas in the early 1960s totry to find evidence that the Yeti exists.
Keith (18:09):
So for those of us who are a bit skeptical of the paranormal
Yeti Bigfoot stuff, we're Whatcould be the scientific explanation?
Abigail (18:17):
Well, most believe the Yeti is just a bear.
The Tibetan blue bear, for example,is quite rare, and they're gigantic.
However, the Yeti has made hismark all over popular culture
nonetheless, from horror movies tobeing selected as the mascot for
Nepal's 2020 advertising campaign.
(18:39):
So again, whether or nothe's real, People love him.
I mean, he's adorable and hecertainly captured our imagination.
Keith (18:47):
So as I was researching the history, I kept coming across this
legend about how the valley used tobe a lake and was emptied of water
way back in history at the dawn ofthe civilization of this valley.
This just kept popping up when I wasdoing my research and it looked like there
was a million different versions of it.
What'd you find out about this?
Abigail (19:06):
Yeah, you're right.
That's an important one.
So I'll try to distill this in anutshell because there are many
different versions as with any legend.
So, supposedly, the Valley ofKathmandu was previously a lake whose
surface was covered in lotuses, whichare better known as water lilies.
(19:27):
According to legend.
Bodhisattva Manjushri saw a flameshoot out of one of the water lilies.
He was curious and wantedto get a better look.
He took his sword of wisdom andcut a gorge near Chobar Hill,
just southwest of Kathmandu.
The water from the lake emptied out,bringing into existence the valley
(19:50):
of Kathmandu as we know it today.
The lotus that shot out the flameturned into the Swayambhunath
Stupa, which is a shrine that isconsidered to be sacred to Buddhists.
However, according to some versions ofthe story, Lord Krishna was actually the
one who cut his way through the gorgewith not a sword, but a thunderbolt,
(20:14):
and resultingly emptied the waterthat diluged the Kathmandu Valley.
Keith (20:19):
Okay, so let's end by talking about what's being done to protect Kathmandu.
Is it considered to beendangered by UNESCO?
So many of these sites we talkabout need some major attention.
Abigail (20:31):
Right on.
Well, I already established beforethat the roads need some work, so they
need to work on the infrastructure.
But from 2003 to 2007, Kathmandu Valleywas listed as endangered by UNESCO.
Major factors for that include theimpactful earthquakes the country
experiences, which aren't man made,unlike many of the issues we've
(20:54):
talked about in other episodes.
Thankfully, the earthquake damagedmonuments were restored and staff
used this as a means to learn how tobetter protect the site for the future.
Air transport infrastructure doesaffect Kathmandu Valley as well.
So the government of Nepal wants to extendKathmandu International Airport, but that
(21:17):
would negatively impact the site due toincreased air pollution from emissions
from the planes and excessive noise.
Anyone who's ever lived near anairport can likely attest to that.
So all of this will have tocontinue to be monitored.
That being said, I'm soexcited to visit this site.
Thank you for listening tothe Global Treasures Podcast.
(21:39):
If you would like to support the show, youcan subscribe to Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or wherever you get your podcasts.
You can also check us outon YouTube and TikTok.
Keith (21:50):
So if you've enjoyed our journey through the mystical Kathmandu
Valley, We'd both be incrediblygrateful if you could take a moment to
leave us a five star written review.
Your feedback not only helps fellowcultural enthusiasts discover our
show, but also fuels our passionfor showcasing these extraordinary
UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Whether it's a brief comment or a detailedreflection, each review contributes
(22:13):
to our mission of preserving andcelebrating our shared global heritage.
Abigail (22:19):
We're deeply appreciative of all of our listeners who help spread the word
about these incredible landmarks, andthe rich tapestry of stories they hold.
Keith (22:27):
Now, Get ready to trade your city shoes for hiking boots as we
prepare for our next adventure.
We're heading north into the vastwilderness of Kluane, Wrangell-St.
Elias, Glacier Bay, Tatshenshini-Alsek,straddling the border of
Canada and the United States.
This awe inspiring region is home tosome of the world's most spectacular
landscapes, featuring massive ice fields,rugged mountains, and pristine forests.
(22:51):
From the largest non polar ice fieldin the world, to North America's
highest peak, we'll explore a realmwhere nature reigns supreme and the raw
power of glacial forces shape the land.
Until then, keep your spirit ofadventure alive and your curiosity for
our planet's wonders burning bright.
The next chapter in our globalexploration of Earth's most
(23:12):
magnificent natural treasures awaits.
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