Panauti

Panauti is a beautiful village/municipality located just 32 kilometers from the Kathmandu valley in Kavrepalanchok district of central Nepal. This beautiful village is situated at the junction of Rosi river and Punyamati river and also there is a saying of there is another third river too which can be seen by mystic people only. This place was the independent township when Nepal was united by King Prithivi Narayan Shah in 1793. The historical town having religious and cultural importance was one of the oldest townships in Kathmandu valley and become a part of Bhaktapur district during later growth and expansion of people as well as place. It is said that Panauti was built during the reign of Ananda Malla during (1274-1310 CE or AD). There is also a documentation in the form of golden scripture stating that King Harisingh Dev founded this town but still there is no doubt for Panauti town to prove itself as the oldest town in Kathmandu valley.

Panauti, one of the historical and oldest town, consist of many temples which were dated back from the 15^th century and earlier. Indreshwar temple is one of the largest and tallest temples in Nepal built in pagoda style which was originally built by Lingam in 1294, which is the oldest surviving temple of Nepal and one of the key attractions of Panauti. Though the temple is old, it has got a very strong structure and still is in good condition, which also becomes able to survive the 2015 earthquake. Beside the temple, Panauti Durbar Square is another attraction over here and many artifacts and many stone taps, bricks, water well and coins which are excavated sections of this durbar.

Moreover, Panauti town is equally important from the cultural point of view too as it consists of a variety of monuments of Hindus and Buddhists and considered as the most important medieval sites. The town holds many unique ceremonies and celebrations with various festivals which reflect the ancient tradition and mythology. One of the most important jatra i.e. Panauti Jatra which is held at the end of monsoon is the most important and famous event in this area throughout the country.