Kathmandu Valley is divided into three cities namely Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan) and Baktapur. Baktapur and Lalitpur are more of ancient towns compared to Kathmandu yet these three cities are rich in their own cultural heritage and they have equal historical importance.

Kathmandu City
Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and is the main centre for hotels, restaurants and shopping centers. There are places in this city where one can find all the modern amenities such as restaurants, bars, hotels with swimming pools, sauna, and internet and at the same time there are places with narrow streets, tiny shops, 2000 years old temples, stone gods, age old houses with beautifully carved peacock windows.

Patan
This historical city of Patan is separated from Kathmandu by the holy river that flows through Pashupatinath, Bagmati and is the second largest town in the valley. It is sometimes referred to as Lalitpur, which means “city of Beauty”. Patan has a long Buddhist history and the four corners of the city are marked by stupas said to have been erected by the great Buddhist emperor Ashoka. Patan’s Durbar Square is well packed with temples giving an architectural feast with a far greater concentration of temples per square meter.

Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur (1401m) covers an area of 4 sq. miles, which lies about 14 km east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur or locally known as “City of Devotees” still retains a medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated to myriad wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulers continues to be reflected at the Durbar Square. Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. Bhaktapur is famous for woodcarving and the Bhadgaolen topi or cap (old name of Bhaktapur was Bhadgaon).

Changunarayan
Changunarayan is situated at the end of a long ridge, which runs well into the valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the valley. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979.