The Kathmandu Valley is fertile, flat and compact. Situated at an altitude of 1,200 to 1,500 m (between 4,000 to 5,000 ft), the valley is also small, with an area of only 570 sq km (220 sq miles). Yet in spite of its small size, there are a record seven World Heritage sites declared by UNESCO-a number unrivalled anywhere else in the world for such a small compact area. These seven architectural and civic wonders are monuments to Nepal's past prosperity, artistry ...
