Kasthamandap ("wooden pavilion") stands at the south-west corner of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Legend says it was built from the timber of a single tree, and the city's name, Kathmandu, is believed to come from it. It collapsed in the 2015 earthquake and has been rebuilt using traditional materials and methods, with strong community involvement.
Quick answer: Kasthamandap is part of the Durbar Square heritage area. Look for the shrine of Gorakhnath inside.
Kasthamandap at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kathmandu Durbar Square |
| Meaning | "Wooden pavilion" |
| Legend | Built from a single tree |
| 2015 | Collapsed in the earthquake |
| Today | Rebuilt with traditional methods |
Highlights
- The rebuilt timber pavilion.
- The story of Kathmandu's name.
- Community-led reconstruction.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Kasthamandap is where Kathmandu got its name. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.