Nestled within the heart of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal lies a place where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present. History whispers through intricately carved woodwork and ancient stone temples in this place. Welcome to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a living testament to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
As you step onto the cobblestone streets of Bhaktapur, you’re transported to a bygone era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not just a square; it’s a portal to a world where centuries-old architecture, religious devotion, and timeless traditions converge. It’s a place where the essence of Nepal’s history, art, and spirituality is captured in every sculpted deity and meticulously crafted window frame.
In this blog, we invite you to embark on a journey through Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where every corner reveals a story, every temple echoes with ancient chants, and every carving holds a piece of Nepal’s soul. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking the enchanting beauty of the past, Bhaktapur Durbar Square has something extraordinary to offer.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Location
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is in the historic city of Bhaktapur, one of the three ancient royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. The specific geographical details are as follows:
- City: Bhaktapur
- Region: Kathmandu Valley
- Country: Nepal
- Coordinates: Approximately 27.6722° N latitude and 85.4277° E longitude
Bhaktapur is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) east of Kathmandu’s capital. It is easily accessible from Kathmandu and other major cities in Nepal.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square History
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a former royal palace complex in Bhaktapur, Nepal. It housed the Malla kings of Nepal from the 14th to 15th century and the kings of the Kingdom of Bhaktapur from the 15th to late 18th century until the kingdom was conquered in 1769.
The construction of the Durbar Square began in the 14th century by King Yaksha Malla. The square was expanded and modified by subsequent kings, and it peaked during King Bhupatindra Malla’s reign in the 17th century. Bhupatindra Malla was a great patron of the arts and architecture and commissioned the construction of many of the temples and palaces in the square.
The Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its outstanding architectural and cultural significance. The square is home to various temples, palaces, and other structures beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The square is also the site of many festivals and cultural events, making it a popular tourist destination.
The Durbar Square was damaged in the earthquakes of 1934 and 2015. However, restoration work is underway, and the square is slowly being restored to its former glory.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Architecture
Here are some of the architectural features of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- Newar architecture: The architecture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square is characterized by its use of Newar architecture, a unique style of architecture found in the Kathmandu Valley. Newar architecture is characterized by brick, wood, terracotta, and intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Five-tiered pagoda: The most common type of temple in Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the five-tiered pagoda. This type of temple is characterized by its tall, pyramidal shape and multiple roofs.
- Wood carving: Wood carving is a highly skilled art form in Nepal, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square is home to some of the finest examples of this art. The windows, doors, and pillars of the temples and palaces are all decorated with elaborately carved figures of gods, goddesses, animals, and flowers.
- Sculpture: Bhaktapur Durbar Square is also home to many fine sculptures, many of which are displayed in the open air. These sculptures depict various subjects, including religious figures, mythological creatures, and everyday scenes.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Major Attractions
Here are some of the major attractions of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- Nyatapola Temple: The Nyatapola Temple is the tallest temple in Bhaktapur and one of the most important temples in Nepal. It is dedicated to the goddess Durga. It is a five-tiered pagoda, the most common type of temple in the square. The temple is made of brick, wood, and terracotta, decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- 55 Window Palace: The 55 Window Palace is a royal palace that was built in the 17th century. It is named after the 55 windows that are located on its facade. The palace is made of wood and brick, and it is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Vatsala Temple: The Vatsala Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vatsala Devi. It is located in the western part of the Durbar Square. The temple is made of brick and wood and decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Bhairava Nath Temple: The Bhairava Nath Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to the god Bhairava. It is located in the southern part of the Durbar Square. The temple is made of brick and wood and decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Golden Gate: The Golden Gate is a gateway that leads to the inner courtyard of the Durbar Square. It is decorated with gold leaf and intricate carvings.
- Peacock Window: The Peacock Window is located in the 55 Window Palace. It is named after the intricate carving of a peacock that is located on the window. The window is a fine example of Newar wood carving.
- Lion Gate: The Lion Gate is a gateway that was built in the 15th century. It is located in the western part of the Durbar Square. The gate is decorated with statues of lions.
- Taumadhi Square: Taumadhi Square is a square that is located next to Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It is home to the Nyatapola Temple and the Dattatreya Temple.
- Dattatreya Temple: The Dattatreya Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Dattatreya. It is located in Taumadhi Square. The temple is made of wood and brick and decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
These are just a few of the many attractions that can be found in Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Museum and Galleries
Here are some of the museums and galleries in Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- National Art Museum: The National Art Museum is located in the western part of the Durbar Square. Established in 1960, it houses a collection of Nepali art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
- Woodcarving Museum: The Woodcarving Museum is located in the eastern part of the Durbar Square. Established in 1974, it houses a collection of Newar woodcarving, including religious sculptures, furniture, and architectural elements.
- Brass and Bronze Museum: The Brass and Bronze Museum is located in the Tachupal Tole neighborhood, just outside of the Durbar Square. Established in 1988, it houses a collection of Nepali brass and bronze sculptures, including religious icons, jewelry, and household utensils.
- Mask Museum: The Mask Museum is located in the Taumadhi Square neighborhood, just next to the Durbar Square. Established in 2009, it houses a collection of Nepali masks, including religious, festival, and theatrical masks.
- Traditional Music and Dance Museum: The Traditional Music and Dance Museum is located in the Dattatreya Square neighborhood, just south of the Durbar Square. It was established in 2013 and houses a collection of Nepali musical instruments, costumes, and dance props.
Local Cuisine and Crafts
Here are some of the local cuisine and crafts in Bhaktapur:
- Cuisine: Bhaktapur is known for its delicious Newari cuisine, which is a blend of Indian and Tibetan influences. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Dhal Bhat: This is a staple dish of Nepal and consists of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables.
- Momos: These are steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
- Chatamari: This is a pancake made from rice flour and filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese.
- JuJu Dhau: This is a thick yogurt drink made with buffalo milk.
- Sel Roti: These are sweet pancakes made from rice flour and jaggery.
Crafts: Bhaktapur is also known for its fine handicrafts, including:
- Woodcarving: This is a highly skilled art form in Nepal, and Bhaktapur is home to some of the finest woodcarvers in the country. Woodcarvings can be found in all shapes and sizes, and they often depict religious figures, mythological creatures, and everyday scenes.
- Brasswork: This is another traditional craft of Nepal, and Bhaktapur is home to many brass workshops. Brasswork items can be found in all shapes and sizes, and they often depict religious icons, jewelry, and household utensils.
- Bronzework: This is a similar craft to brasswork, but it uses bronze instead of brass. Bronzework items are often more expensive than brasswork items, but they are also more durable.
- Thanka: This is a traditional form of painting that is done on cloth. Thankas often depict religious scenes or deities.
- Papermaking: This is a traditional craft that is still practiced in Bhaktapur. Paper made in Bhaktapur is known for its high quality and is used to make a variety of items, including thankas, religious scrolls, and greeting cards.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Entrance Fees and Timings
Here are the entrance fees and timings for Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- Entrance fees:
- Foreign nationals: NPR 1,500 (US$ 15)
- SAARC nationals: NPR 500 (US$ 5)
- Nepalese nationals: Free
- Children below 10 years: Free
- Timings:
- Open 24 hours a day
- Ticket counter opens from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Please note that the entrance fees and timings are subject to change. It is always best to check with the authorities before visiting.
How to Reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Reaching Bhaktapur Durbar Square is relatively straightforward, as it’s a well-known and easily accessible destination in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Here’s how you can reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- From Kathmandu (the capital of Nepal):
- By Taxi or Private Vehicle: The most convenient way to reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square from Kathmandu is by taxi or a private vehicle. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are readily available in Kathmandu, and you can negotiate a fare with the driver.
- By Public Bus: Public buses also run between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. You can catch a bus from various points in Kathmandu, such as Ratna Park or the Old Bus Park. Buses to Bhaktapur are typically inexpensive but may be crowded.
- From Bhaktapur’s Bus Park (Ratna Park):
- If you arrive in Bhaktapur by public bus, you’ll likely be dropped off at the Bhaktapur Bus Park (Ratna Park). From there, you can either walk to Bhaktapur Durbar Square or take a short taxi ride.
- From Bhaktapur’s Main Entrance:
- If you’re arriving by taxi or private vehicle, you’ll typically be dropped off at the main entrance to Bhaktapur city. From there, you can enter the city on foot. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located within the city, and it’s a short walk from the entrance gate.
Nearby Accommodation Options
There are many accommodation options near Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Here are a few of the highly-rated places to stay:
- Hotel Bhaktapur Inn
- Golden Gate Guest House
- Tulajya Boutique Hotel
- Kumari Guest House
- Hotel Heritage Bhaktapur
Local Legends and Stories
Here are some of the local legends and stories in Bhaktapur:
- The Praying Ghost of Bhaktapur: Laasi: This is a story about a young woman named Laasi who her husband killed. Her spirit is said to haunt the streets of Bhaktapur still, praying for justice.
- The Demonic Spirit in Suryabinayak: This is a story about a demonic spirit that is said to live in the Suryabinayak temple. The spirit is said to possess people and make them do evil things.
- The Woman in the White of Siddha Pokhari: This story is about a woman who drowned in Siddha Pokhari lake. Her spirit still haunts the lake, appearing as a white figure.
- The Legend of the Bhairava: This is a legend about the god Bhairava, who is said to protect Bhaktapur from evil. The legend tells the story of how Bhairava defeated a demon that was terrorizing the city.
- The Tale of the Kumari: The Kumari is a living goddess who is worshipped in Bhaktapur. The legend tells how the Kumari is chosen and how she lives.
These are just a few of Bhaktapur’s many local legends and stories. These stories are passed down from generation to generation and help to preserve the city’s culture and heritage.
Nearby Places to Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square
There are many places to visit near Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Here are a few suggestions:
- Changu Narayan: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 3 kilometers from Bhaktapur. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. The temple is built on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Patan Durbar Square: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is about 5 kilometers from Bhaktapur. It is a former royal palace complex home to many temples and palaces.
- Suryabinayak Temple: This Hindu temple is dedicated to Surya, the sun god. The temple is located in the heart of Bhaktapur and is one of the most popular temples in the city.
- Siddha Pokhari: This is a sacred lake located in Bhaktapur. It is said to have medicinal properties and is a popular place for pilgrims and tourists alike.
- Mul Chowk: This is the main square in Bhaktapur and is home to many shops, restaurants, and temples. It is a great place to wander around and experience the city’s atmosphere.
- Bhaktapur Pottery Square: This square in Bhaktapur is where you can see potters at work. You can also buy pottery souvenirs here.