Nepal: Kathmandu Valley
Score: 39

"Very rich architectural heritage. Palaces, houses, religious buildings of the Hindus and Buddhists built in centuries-old Niwar style of wood carvings that are unparalleled in the world. Still-lived-in old cities celebrating festivals and performing daily rituals."

"The aesthetic appeal of ancient temples and other treasures of architecture is diminished by modern concrete buildings that surround many of them."

"The polluted air prevents views of the mountains surrounding the valley, occluding what should be one of Kathmandu's most attractive features."

"Those places where the local government has taken control of management have fared much better.This is one of the best examples of the rule that heritage is best taken care of when there is local community stewardship and empowerment."

"Huge influxes of pilgrims (more than tourists) put enormous pressures on the site, undertaking special ceremonies when several thousand may engage in an all-night 'puja.' It is pilgrims who are not 'treading lightly.' Tourists tend to be reasonably well behaved and follow instructions. Pilgrims, with their sense of ownership, often treat the places very differently!"