Nepal's capital city lies in a wide valley between snow-capped Himalayan peaks, but in modern times its legendary mystique has been replaced by the chaos of a crowded, industrialized Asian city. Still, despite its polluted streets and scores of hawkers targeting tourists, Kathmandu manages to capture the imagination of many foreign travelers, who are drawn to the narrow alleyways of the Old City, the music and incense of the city's religious rituals, and its colorful and dynamic street markets. Once completely cut off from the outside world, today's Kathmandu has many of the modern conveniences and woes of any large city. Recent political upheavals have threatened the stability of Nepal, with Maoist rebels continually attempting to overthrow the country's constitutional monarchy. Despite its problems, Kathmandu holds a special, mysterious intensity that reminds travelers of its reputation as an exotic mountain paradise.Nepal's capital city lies in a wide valley between snow-capped Himalayan peaks, but in modern times its legendary mystique has been replaced by the chaos of a crowded, industrialized Asian city. Still, despite its polluted streets and scores of hawkers targeting tourists, Kathmandu manages to capture the imagination of many foreign travelers, who are drawn to the narrow alleyways of the Old City, the music and incense of the city's religious rituals, and its colorful and dynamic street markets. Once completely cut off from the outside world, today's Kathmandu has many of the modern conveniences and woes of any large city. Recent political upheavals have threatened the stability of Nepal, with Maoist rebels continually attempting to overthrow the country's constitutional monarchy. Despite its problems, Kathmandu holds a special, mysterious intensity that reminds travelers of its reputation as an exotic mountain paradise. Whether you come to experience the city or just stop by on your way to the surrounding mountain peaks, your trip to Kathmandu is certain to be unforgettable.
