Kathmandu's Hanuman Dhoka, a short stroll from the tourist centre of Thamel, is one of the most interesting areas of Kathmandu.

Durbar (palace) square is a complex of ancient architecture with it's palaces, temples, courtyards and museums and is a fascinating place to spend a couple of hours. I often go there for lunch when I am in the office in Kathmandu and sit on the steps of Maju Deval  watching the street scene below. Often sitting here I have been engaged in conversations with the locals, sometimes touts, but more often by artists, musicians and teachers anxious to improve their english language skills. I have met some very interesting people here and enjoyed some wonderfully enlightening conversations.