The ancient history of Katmandu begins from Manjushree ( The Buddhist Saint). Before Manjushree came to Kathmandu it was a lake, he cut southern side of the lake and drained out the water and made it in habitable. many dynastic came and went. Trade and arts flourished. There are seven heritage sites in the valley. Kathmandu has an exotic setting. It is surrounded by tier of green mountains wall above which tower mighty snow -capped peaks in winter. It consists of three main towns of great historic, artistic and cultural interest: Kathmandu, Patan and Bhadgaun. The Valley covers an area of 596sq. miles. It is situated at 1330m.above the sea-level. The major tourist attractions in Kathmandu include: