It might also seem like the site of a present-day battle between 21st Century modernity and medieval times. Remodeling is inexorably overtaking and vanquishing the ancient architecture and infrastructure but not without disorganized resistance from a distant, dying era that is fading into the new construction.
The sprawling Kathmandu valley's high population density and dearth of general services and basic facilities tend to intensify the growing pains, including long power cuts (rolling blackouts locally known as 'load shedding') , fuel shortages and rationed water. The shortages become all the more acute during winter and spring when rainfall is scarce and reservoirs run low.
Recently, the city has been receiving an upgrade in the paving of roadways, lane dividers put into place, and police directing traffic at major intersections and checking vehicle licensure, too. This transformation is a far cry from the chaotic, anything goes flow of traffic of only a few years ago. Then, frequent bottlenecks, backups and horn-blowing entanglements were routine as traffic moved along over the dusty, potholed streets.
Nowadays, morning crews regularly sweep the streets and garbage collection bins have been placed around the city, a significant improvement to the litter strewn streets of the recent past, but there is still a ways to go in this regard. Solid waste disposal is sorely problematic, as collected rubbish has to go somewhere and often winds up in waterways, brightening the streets but poisoning the rivers. Nevertheless, the city is beautifying itself in many ways. Modern construction of new homes, apartment complexes, businesses, private schools, large malls and shopping centers are signs of increased wealth and a burgeoning middle class.
At dawn, the streets of Kathmandu come alive, first with devotees visiting the myriad temples and shrines of the city, chanting prayers, ringing bells and depositing flowers, lighting incense, sprinkling crimson devotional powder and depositing foodstuffs on and around temple icons and the framework of temples.
As a necessary stop for most travelers, there are many activities to bide your time in this enchanting metropolis and greater valley. The contrast between hectic urban life and the trekking trails will likely make the time spent in each environment unique. A vibrant city life with bustling streets contrasts greatly with serene Himalayan footpaths surrounded by the highest peaks on the planet.
The following e-guidebook provides more on this iconic valley with insider information and activity options for leisure while preparing for a journey out of the valley and general recreation and sightseeing,
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