The Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant religious site for Hindus worldwide. It features pagoda style architecture, stone lingams and tiered golden roof and silver doors. The temple complex has several shrines, ashrams, and cremation sites to explore, with monkeys and sadhus (holy men) wandering around. The Bagmati river flowing right beside the temple provides a picturesque backdrop to the devotees taking a dip or performing last rites.
The Boudhanath Stupa is the largest stupa in Nepal and one of the largest in the world. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant place of worship for Tibetan Buddhists. The stupa's white dome and golden spire symbolize the Buddha's enlightenment. The prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the smell of incense, and the sound of chanting monks create a peaceful and mystical atmosphere. The area around the stupa has several monasteries, cafes, souvenir shops, and Tibetan heritage museum.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World heritage site, is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples dating back to the 12th and 18th centuries. The square has several museums, the living goddess Kumari's palace, and the iconic Kasthamandap temple(previously made from a single tree) and a temple dedicated to Taleju Bhawani. Marvel at the intricate wood carvings, golden temple roofs, and the large collection of erotic stone carvings at the stone temple. The surrounding area has several shops selling traditional crafts, masks, and souvenirs.
If you have more time, visit Swayambhunath Stupa (monkey temple), another UNESCO World heritage site, with a great viewpoint of Kathmandu valley. For a recent history of Nepal, visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, the former royal palace, that has a collection of royal anecdotes, photographs, and artifacts. If you have less time, replace one location with Patan Durbar Square, a beautiful square with a museum, temples, and handicraft shops, and just 15 mins from Kathmandu Durbar Square.