Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal, unlike any other city in the world. The dilapidated buildings in the city center are in sharp contrast with the lively atmosphere pervading the streets. When street vendors push their merchandise and people start their daily lives, the store smells of incense, all set against the background of historic temples and carved statues. For hundreds of years, Kathmandu and Bhaktapur were one of three competing royal cities.