Old Town

The oldest area of the town, the southern end, is an assembly of fine old Newari houses, often occupied by 20 or more members of the local extended families. They may not all have glazed windows, hot water or modern furniture, but they have dignity and a friendly atmosphere. Their most valuable assets are the beautifully carved windows and doors, fine examples of traditional Newari craftsmanship.

As one wanders down the traffic free narrow streets, one passes through a medieval city inhabited for at least five centuries and may have a feeling that he is in the garden of cultural park. The plan of the city is based on ancient Hindu planning doctrine with the position, shape, scale & dominance between buildings, temples, public squares all having their own meaning and harmony.

 The artistic skill and urban ethos of its Newar inhabitants have created a place of charm and beauty. Here, people greet the visitors, with smiles and a leisurely pace of life. The cobbled lane and worn brick buildings, and the open yards surrounded by the traditional houses with flower pots, old pagoda-style temples with glittering gajurs and a typical mountain lifestyle of the people speak silently of the rich history and the cultural heritage of the people. This all creates an aura, which is unique, but at the same time blends so well into what is often described as Nepali Style.  

There are organically developed compact settlements around Dhulikhel. These settlements in one hand conserved heat in the cold valley, and at the same time maximized land for agricultural use. One of such old settlements is Shrikhandapur, which lies 2 kms west of the core city near the Kathmandu University, and is also a centuries old Newari settlement. The settlement is protected by Swet Bhairav (an incarnation of Lord Shiva) and Narayan (Vishnu) deties.