A Photographer’s Guide to Kathmandu Valley

Are you a photography enthusiast who enjoys capturing people, their emotions, and their ways of living? If so, you need a photographer’s guide to Kathmandu Valley to absorb the wholesomeness of this city.

Kathmandu Valley is a dream for photographers who want to capture various aspects of a city in their frames in a multidimensional way. Frankly speaking, it is a paradise for photographers, offering a blend of ancient heritage, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Nestled on the foothills of the Himalayas lie three kingdoms of the valley: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Since the 3rd century, the valley has been recognized for its living culture and incredible architecture.

From the mystical alleys of Bhaktapur and Patan to the bustling streets of Ason Bazaar, every corner tells a story through intricate carvings, golden pagodas, and centuries-old temples. The golden sunrise over Nagarkot, the mesmerizing sunset at Pashupatinath celebrated with evening aarti, and the artistic courtyards of Kathmandu Durbar Square provide endless opportunities to capture the valley’s essence.

Photography is not just about capturing stills; it’s about living the moment and feeling the energy of the place. And visiting Kathmandu can be both exciting and overwhelming for a photographer. If you want to capture street photography, architectural marvels, or nature’s serenity, Kathmandu Valley is a living canvas waiting to be explored through your camera. It offers you the most iconic and photogenic locations within.

Whether it is the deep-rooted culture of the people of Kathmandu or the serene beauty of the landscape, Kathmandu has many stories to tell. Let’s go through an ultimate photographer’s guide to capture some of the city’s most iconic moments.

Asan Bazar: A Hub for Culture Enthusiasts

The Ason Bazaar is a bustling market in Kathmandu where you can buy almost everything. It is one of the oldest and busiest marketplaces in Kathmandu, a hub for trading agricultural products.

Throughout the years, many things have changed in Kathmandu, but not people’s emotions towards Ason. It is a place of nostalgia, a place of sensory overload, the smells of spices and herbs, the sounds of bargaining, the vivid colors of textiles, and the movement of people.

The old Ason market has many entangled streets full of ventures. This medieval market offers several rich alleyways that provide an unvarnished glimpse of the local way of life, goods, and food. You can observe all of this in an unlimited variety in the numerous street stores.

Usually, this market opens early in the morning for green vegetables, flowers, and meat. As the sun shines brighter, the market slowly opens up for dry foods, spices, dried fish, coconut, cutlery, snacks, clothes, fabrics, and many more. The activities of the people, passersby, vendors, and customers are all being watched silently by the goddess Annapurna, the goddess of abundance. She is believed to be the protector of the more of nature Ason and Indra Chowk.

Phulchowki: Haven of Nature Lovers

Phulchowki (flower-covered hill) is the highest hill (2,762 m) in Kathmandu Valley, located in Lalitpur district in the south. There is a Nepal Telecom Office and transmission towers built at the top of the hill and the entire area is protected by the Nepal Army.

Phulchowki is a popular hiking destination that lies above the Godawari and the national botanical garden of Godawari. Day hiking to Phulchowki is an ideal activity for nature lovers, especially bird watchers. Walking past thick woods of rhododendron, oak, and pine, one can witness the entire Kathmandu Valley and the plains of the entire Terai in the south from the top of the hill.

The long range of the Himalayas is seen to the north. Mountains like Langtang, Annapurna, and Mahalangur can be captured from the top of Phulchowki Hill. This short hike to Phulchowki can be a blessing for photographers who love to snap in nature.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Center of History, Art and Culture Enthusiasts

The capital of one of the ancient kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley, now listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kathmandu Durbar Square attracts pilgrims and art lovers from all over the world.

The ambiance of the palace and temples is a treasure for culturally enthusiastic photographers who love to dwell in legends and mythologies.

The inner complex of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the site of the Malla Royal Palaces, which was even modified by Shah kings, is now turned into a museum.

The outer complex of the square consists of several typical Nepali-style temples like the Das Avatar Temple, Kasthamandap, one of a kind in its giantess, the home of the living goddess Kumari, Jagannath Temple, and the tall Taleju Temple.

The Taleju temple and the legacy of Kumari have their roots in the Simrangadh kingdom of the east.

One of the square’s attractions is the statue of Kaal Bhirav, the demi-god of death. The 12-foot-high fierce idol of Kaal Bhairav is said to be the largest image of the Lord and is also considered one of the most powerful temples in Kathmandu Valley. The statue of the Kaal Bhairav is said to have been sculpted in the 5th or 6th century and was later rediscovered in the 17th century by King Pratap Malla. Every morning and evening, pilgrims come to offer light and worship to the god.

The Hanuman Dhoka palace is a wonderful example of traditional and medieval Nepalese architecture, with numerous courtyards, ponds, and gardens. The courtyards are a pivotal site for religious festivals like Holi, Indra Jatra, Kumari Jatra, fulpati of Dashain, and other holy and royal events. The walls and plinths of the temples are well decorated with carvings and sculptures appealing to photographers. No photographer should miss visiting this palace and its premises.

Patan Durbar Square: A City of Architecture

Patan, also known as Yala or “Lalita-pura,” meaning the city of arts, is another jewel of the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley. This medieval city, ruled by many Malla kings, is known for its metal arts, intricate dances, jatras, typical Newa culture, and artistry.

The Yala city provides a unique opportunity to capture the spirit of one of Nepal’s oldest cities, where every brick tells the story of devotion and craftsmanship.

The photographers who are keen on craftsmanship, culture, people, and the unique lifestyle of the Newari civilization are attracted by the aesthetic value of the handcrafted statues and temples.

The city is home to many Buddhist monasteries like the Hiranya Barna Mahabihar, Maha Bauddha Stupa, Red Macchindranath Temple, and Rudra Varna Mahabihar (Uku Bahal) that protect the beliefs of Newar Buddhists. The Baha, Bahi, and Bihar protect various courtyards, stupas, and public land.

The intricately carved stone taps (hiti), metalwork, woodcarvings, and stone crafts techniques have been passed down through generations. Photographers will find every corner of the city mesmerizing and enjoy finding a muse along every corner. Your photography tour will take you through the complex alleys and courtyards of a city that claims some of the finest of Patan’s historical sites for photography.

The heritage photography walk around the city will engage you in the local lifestyle of the people. Patan is also a vibrant hub for the traditions, culture, and daily life of Newari people, providing insights into cultural depth and adding layers to your photographic anecdotes. If you explore deeper, there are a lot of places to visit in Patan and a set of activities for everyone.

Dattatreya Square of Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur, also called Khwopa, is the oldest city within the Kathmandu Valley. The city has its significant cultural practices, traditions, festivals, and architecture. The city is often referred to as an Open Living Museum.

The city of Bhaktapur has many attractive places, temples, forts, and buildings that carry historical and cultural importance. The Bhaktapur is full of various squares like Pottery Square, Taumadi Square, Dattatreya Square, and other smaller courtyards. The Dattatreya Square is one of a kind. The Dattatray temple built in 1427 by King Yaksha Malla is unique for its construction from the woods of a single tree. The Dattatreya is not as busy as other squares but has its unique attractiveness surrounded by a few other temples.

The Dattatraya temple is built to honor the composite incarnation of the Divine Trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The three-story temple is raised above the ground on a brick and terracotta base and is supported by numerous wooden struts with erotic carvings. The front entrance, which is slightly out of place, was added later during renovation of the temple.

A photography tour to Bhaktapur adds a journey for those passionate about capturing the essence of ancient culture, medieval architecture, and traditional vibrant street life. The city of Devotees, Bhaktapur, is the oldest among four cities in Kathmandu Valley. After the death of King Yakshya Malla in 1482, the greater kingdom was divided into four smaller kingdoms of the valley by his four children. The Bhaktapur carries the remains of the best-preserved medieval cities in Nepal that used to have 99 gates to enter the city.

The photographers can capture the intricate artistry, traditional Nepalese culture, and historical artifacts along with the lives of aboriginal Newari people. The square also consists of a brass and bronze museum, woodcarving museum, and other temples like the Salan Ganesh temple, Bhimsen temple, and the Yatachhen Pukhu (pond) nearby.

The renowned Peacock window, the most fascinating woodcraft from the 15th century, is one everyone wants to capture a photograph of. A narrow street leading south from the square takes you to this masterpiece.

The other landmarks of the city include the majestic Nyatapola Temple and the intricate Fifty-Five Windows Palace. These spots offer exceptional opportunities to photograph the portraits of craftsmanship and architectural heritages. Entangled with tradition and culture, Bhaktapur is a vibrant center of traditional pottery, weaving, metalwork, and woodcarving.

Bhaktapur is more than just a city of ancient temples and historic squares; it’s a living museum to explore its best photography spots and capture not only stunning photographs but also a profound connection to its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people.

Nagarkot Hills

Nagarkot is renowned for its best sunrise spots, where the first rays of the day fall upon the giant mountains of the North. The panoramic view of the Himalayan range and the view of the Kathmandu Valley provide a spectacular setting for both landscape and portrait photography.

Nagarkot is best for those photographers who wish to see the view of the Himalayas in a short distance within just a 2-hour ride from Kathmandu. Eight of the thirteen sub-Himalayan ranges can be witnessed from Nagarkot.

Swayambhu Nath Stupa: The Biggest in Asia

The Swayambhu Nath stupa is a domed-shaped architecture, a sacred place for Buddhist believers. This is one of the most prominent holy and spiritual places for Buddhists. The Swayambhu-nath stupa lies at the top of a hill in the center of Kathmandu Valley. Photographers love to capture the images of walls, paintings, praying flags, lively hues, and bustle of the nearby markets. The surrounding area is filled with local artisans, vendors, and small shrines, providing endless opportunities for candid photography that captures the essence of daily life in Kathmandu.

Photographers enjoy capturing the stunning view of the Kathmandu Valley, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light. The golden spire, prayer wheels, and intricate carvings provide endless opportunities for detailed shots. The daily rituals, prayers, monks in saffron robes, and devotees lighting butter lamps create a deeply spiritual ambiance.

Capturing these moments allows photographers to tell stories beyond just architecture. The resident monkey in the Swayambhu Forest adds a unique and sometimes playful element to photography. Their interactions with visitors, along with birds circling the stupa, create dynamic compositions.

Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the most significant sites for photographers due to its rich blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

However, it’s important to note that Tibetans, unlike many Nepalis, are generally not fond of being photographed, especially without permission or in an intrusive manner.

General Tips for Photographers in Kathmandu

1. Kathmandu Valley offers different times for unique opportunities in a day to capture the best shots within. The golden hours are the best lighting to capture moments. Utilizing the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon for the best natural light and dramatic landscapes of the valley, late morning to early afternoon is best for capturing the artisans at work and is suitable after late morning to early afternoon.
2. Mid-morning and late afternoon are ideal for capturing the daily routines of children heading to school and people rushing for the office. A bustle and haste of people is seen after late morning.
3. A photography tour through Kathmandu Valley’s ancient cities and vibrant cultures requires preparation and respect for both nature and the people. One must respect the norms and values of the people and the communities encountered along the way.
4. Asking for permission to capture photographs of people and culturally sensitive matters. Not everybody likes to be filmed or photographed. Religious ceremonies or private moments cannot be captured without permission.
5. Protect your gear, and camera from rain, dust, and moisture. Especially during the monsoon, protect the camera from rain and be careful with the slippery, muddy roads. The temperature and moisture of the valley during the rainy season favor the growth of fungus. Hence, protect your tools using Silica gel packs.
6. Engage with locals for more authentic and meaningful photographs. Learning a few phrases in Nepali can enrich this interaction.
7. Be respectful and always ask for permission to take the photographs.
8. Consult fixers and local expert photographers who can take you to the best spots for photography.
9. Regularly back up your images on hard disks or in the cloud to protect your data from loss.