Tundikhel

Tundikhel has also been described as Kathmandu's lungs as the large field provides fresh air in the midst of the city congested with houses.

Known as Khariko Bot or Chākalā Simā (Round Tree), it was used by Nepal's heads of state and government to make major proclamations.

Once extending 3–5 km in length from Rani Pokhari to Dasarath Rangasala Stadium, and almost 300 meters in width, it was reputed to be one of the largest parade grounds in Asia.

[7] During the Pāhān Charhe festival which coincides with Ghode Jatra, portable shrines containing the images of various Ajimā mother goddesses are carried on the shoulders of their attendants and assembled at Tundikhel for an ancient ceremony.

During the event which takes place late at night amid musical bands, flaming torches are exchanged between the entourages of the goddesses.

Soldiers fire a feu de joie using rifles and ancient cannons during the festivals of Phulpati which takes place during Dasain and Maha Shivaratri which occurs in February.

So every year on the full moon night in March, a pile of boiled rice and buffalo meat is left on the open ground for him to feast on.

[11] Among the earliest references to Tundikhel is contained in an account by Italian Jesuit Ippolito Desideri who visited Kathmandu in 1721 when Nepal was ruled by the Malla kings.

He was travelling from Tibet to India, and has mentioned in his travelogue seeing a two-mile long plain near the pond (Rani Pokhari) situated outside the city gate.