A City Built on Stories
Kathmandu is a place that holds its history close. Every corner, every alley, every old building has a story to tell. It’s a city that rewards slow walks and curious minds.
If you’re staying at Hotel Shanker, you’re already in a place with its own history. But beyond its gates, the streets of Kathmandu have even more to share. Here are a few places where the past still lives, just a short walk or drive from the hotel.
Ason Bazaar: Where the City Still Breathes
Start your day in Ason Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in Kathmandu. Here, the air is thick with the smell of spices, fresh vegetables, and incense. Narrow lanes twist through old brick buildings, their windows carved with care.
Pause at the Annapurna Temple, a small but sacred spot dedicated to the goddess of abundance. You’ll often find locals stopping to light incense or offer flowers as the market buzzes around them.
Indra Chowk: Where Life Crosses Paths
From Ason, walk toward Indra Chowk, a busy crossroads that has been a meeting point for traders and travelers for centuries.
Take a moment at the Seto Machhindranath Temple, a quieter corner where butter lamps flicker and the smell of marigolds fills the air. It’s a reminder that even in the busiest parts of the city, there is space for quiet reflection.
Basantapur: The Heart of Old Kathmandu
From Indra Chowk, follow the winding lanes to Basantapur, a place known for its tall, wooden pagodas and carved windows.
Look for the Kaathe Swayambhu Stupa, a small but important shrine that echoes the larger stupa on the hill. It’s a good place to pause, take a breath, and watch the city move around you.
Itumbaha Courtyard: A Hidden Gem
Just a short walk from the main squares, Itumbaha is a quiet, hidden courtyard that feels like a step back in time. Built in the 14th century, this Buddhist monastery still holds its original charm, with intricate wood carvings and a peaceful, lived-in atmosphere.
Narayanhiti Palace Museum: A Look at Recent History
End your walk at the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, just a short drive from Hotel Shanker. Once home to Nepal’s kings, this palace is now a museum that offers a glimpse into the country’s recent past.
Walk through the grand halls, past crystal chandeliers and state rooms, and imagine the moments of history that unfolded here.
Coming Back to Quiet
After a day spent moving through the city’s history, coming back to Hotel Shanker feels like a welcome pause. The cool halls, the quiet gardens, and the soft light in the windows offer a different kind of history—a quieter, more personal one.
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