Country | Nepal |
Population | 856767 |
Area | 49.45 km2 (19.09 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+05:45 (Nepal Standard Time) |
Coordinates | 27.70169, 85.3206 |
Highest elevation | 1,400 m (4,600 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Kathmandu, officially Kathmandu Metropolitan City, is the bustling capital of Nepal and its most populous city, with 845,767 inhabitants living in 105,649 households as of the 2021 census. The urban agglomeration around Kathmandu hosts approximately 4 million people. Nestled in the Kathmandu Valley at an elevation of 1,400 meters (4,600 feet), it stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited places globally, with roots tracing back to the 2nd century AD.
Historically, the valley was known as the “Nepal Mandala” and has long been the home of the Newar people, fostering a rich, cosmopolitan urban civilization in the Himalayan foothills. Kathmandu was the royal capital of the Kingdom of Nepal, adorned with palaces, mansions, and gardens built by Nepali aristocracy. Today, it serves as the seat of government for the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, established in 2008, and is part of Bagmati Province.
The city is a vibrant hub for Nepal’s history, art, culture, and economy. Its multi-ethnic population primarily adheres to Hinduism and Buddhism, with religious and cultural festivals playing a significant role in daily life. Tourism is a cornerstone of Kathmandu’s economy, bolstered by its status as a gateway to the Nepal Himalayas. In 2013, TripAdvisor ranked Kathmandu third among the top ten upcoming travel destinations worldwide, and it topped the list in Asia.
Kathmandu is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Durbar Square, Swayambhu Mahachaitya (commonly known as the Monkey Temple), Bouddha, and Pashupatinath Temple. These sites are integral to the city’s cultural and religious landscape, drawing countless visitors each year.
The Kathmandu Valley, according to a 2010 World Bank report, is growing at a rate of 4% per year, making it one of South Asia’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas. This rapid urbanization presents significant challenges as the city modernizes at a metropolitan scale. Kathmandu is the largest metropolitan area in the Himalayas, reflecting its central role in the region’s socio-economic development.
In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Kathmandu has been the headquarters of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) since 1985, underscoring its importance in regional diplomacy and cooperation. The city continues to evolve, blending its ancient heritage with modern advancements, making it a dynamic and integral part of Nepal’s identity and future.
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