Ever wonder to learn about about the Newar people, who are one of Nepal’s many distinct ethnic groups and the original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley. Come to Bungmati, Khokana and Kirtipur for exquisite architecture, hilltop temples, and sweeping city views. Wandering around its winding streets feels like walking through a traditional Nepali village, offers some of the finest views of sprawling Kathmandu and the hills and mountains beyond. It’s full of cobblestone streets, old brick houses with elaborately carved door and window frames, and multitier pagodas. Many travelers don’t visit these old Newari cities as part of Kathmandu trip, yet it’s worth visiting.

Bungamati is the hometown of the deity Machhindranath, regarded as the patron of the valley and his large shikhara-style temple in the center of the village square.

Kirtipur is one of several ancient kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley that were once independent, but now make up part of greater Kathmandu.