Nestled within the heart of Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley lies a living testament to centuries of history, culture, and architectural brilliance—Patan Durbar Square. As you step into this enchanting square, the past comes alive, and you are transported to a time when kings ruled with grace, artists chiseled stories into stone, and spirituality permeated every corner. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur (Patan) is a mesmerizing mosaic of temples, palaces, courtyards, and museums.
Join us on a journey through the intricate carvings, sacred sanctuaries, and vibrant culture that make Patan Durbar Square a treasure trove of Nepal’s rich heritage. In this blog, we will explore this cultural gem’s history, artistry, and enduring allure, inviting you to wander through the alleys of time and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Patan Durbar Square.
History of Patan Durbar Square
The history of Patan Durbar Square can be traced back to the 12th century, when the Malla kings of Nepal founded it. The square was the seat of their power for centuries and was a major center of art and culture.
The square was damaged in many earthquakes over the centuries, but it was always rebuilt. The most recent earthquake was in 2015, and the square suffered extensive damage. However, it has been restored and is a popular tourist destination.
Patan Durbar Square has impressive architectural features, including the Krishna Mandir, the Taleju Temple, and the Golden Gate. The Krishna Mandir is a Hindu temple dedicated to Krishna, one of the most important temples in Patan. The Taleju Temple is a royal temple dedicated to Taleju Bhawani, the patron goddess of the Malla kings. The Golden Gate is the main entrance to the square, and it is decorated with gold leaf.
Patan Durbar Square is known for its intricate woodcarvings and vibrant Newari culture. The woodcarvings can be seen on the square’s temples, palaces, and other buildings. The Newari are the indigenous people of Patan, and they have a rich culture reflected in the square.
Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of Nepal.
Patan Durbar Square Location :
The address of Patan Durbar Square is:
- Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Nepal
The square is located in the city of Patan, which is about 5 kilometers south of Kathmandu. The square is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or rickshaw.
Architectural Marvels: The Temples and Palaces
Here are some of the architectural marvels in Patan Durbar Square:
- Krishna Mandir: This Hindu temple is dedicated to Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It is one of the most important temples in Patan and is known for its intricate woodcarvings and golden roof.
- Golden Gate: This is the main entrance to Patan Durbar Square. It is decorated with gold leaf and is a beautiful example of Newari architecture.
- Mul Chowk: This is the central courtyard of Patan Durbar Square. Temples and palaces surround it, and it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- Keshav Narayan Chowk: Keshav Narayan Chowk is a courtyard located in Patan Durbar Square. It is named after King Keshav Narayan Malla, who ruled Nepal from 1644 to 1681.
The most notable building in Keshav Narayan Chowk is the Kasthamandap, a five-story pagoda that is said to have been built in the 12th century. It is one of the oldest and most important buildings in Patan Durbar Square.
Other notable buildings in Keshav Narayan Chowk include the Bhairab Nath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Bhairava, the god of destruction; the Kumari Ghar, the former residence of the living goddess Kumari; and the Mul Chowk, the central courtyard of Patan Durbar Square.
- Hiranya Varna Mahavihar: This Buddhist monastery is home to a large collection of Buddhist scriptures and artifacts. It is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Nepal.
- Patan Museum: The museum was founded in 1982 and is housed in a beautifully restored palace. The museum exhibits many artifacts from the Kathmandu Valley, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, and musical instruments.
The museum is divided into three sections:
The Newar Art Gallery exhibits a collection of sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts from the Newar community. The Newar are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley and have a rich artistic tradition.
The Musical Instruments Gallery exhibits a collection of traditional Nepali musical instruments. Nepal has a rich musical tradition, and the museum’s collection includes instruments from all over the country.
The Textile Gallery exhibits a collection of traditional Nepali textiles. Nepal is known for its beautiful textiles, and the museum’s collection includes a variety of saris, dresses, and other textiles.
Cultural Events and Festivals at Patan Durbar Squire
Here are some of the cultural events and festivals that are celebrated at Patan Durbar Square:
- Buddha Jayanti: This is the festival that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. It is a time for great joy and celebration.
- Gai Jatra: This is a festival that celebrates cows and other animals. It is a time for people to come together and celebrate the lives of their loved ones who have passed away.
- Makar Sankranti: This is a festival that celebrates the winter solstice. It is a time for kite flying and feasting.
- Dashain: This is the longest festival in Nepal. It is a time for family reunions and feasting.
- Tihar: This is the festival of lights. It is a time for worshipping animals and honouring older adults.
These are just a few cultural events and festivals celebrated at Patan Durbar Square. These festivals are a great way to experience Nepal’s rich culture and traditions.
In addition to these festivals, many cultural events are held at Patan Durbar Square throughout the year. These events include traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and religious ceremonies.
Patan Durbar Square Timings and Entry Fees
Here are the visiting timings and fees for Patan Durbar Square:
- Timings:
- Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, every day.
- Fees:
- Foreign nationals: NPR 1,000
- SAARC nationals: NPR 250
- Nepalese nationals: Free
The entrance fee is collected at the ticket counter at the square’s entrance. You must show your passport or other identification document to purchase a ticket.
Local Cuisine and Shopping Surroundings Patan Durbar Square
Here are some of the local cuisine and shopping options in the surroundings of Patan Durbar Square:
Cuisine:
- Newari cuisine: This is the traditional cuisine of the Newar people, who are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley. Newari cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs and spices, and its many vegetarian dishes. Some popular Newari dishes include momo (steamed dumplings), saag (spinach curry), and chhatamari (flatbread).
- Nepali cuisine: This is the national cuisine of Nepal, and it is influenced by both Indian and Tibetan cuisine. Nepali cuisine is known for its use of meat, lentils, and vegetables. Some popular Nepali dishes include dal bhat (lentils and rice), aloo tamatar (potato and tomato curry), and masu bhat (meat and rice).
Shopping:
- Traditional handicrafts: Patan Durbar Square is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, such as woodcarvings, metalwork, and textiles.
- Souvenirs: There are many shops in Patan Durbar Square selling souvenirs, such as t-shirts, magnets, and hats.
- Food: There are also many restaurants in Patan Durbar Square where you can buy food and drinks.
Ask the locals for recommendations if you are looking for a specific type of food or souvenir. They will be happy to help you find what you are looking for.
Best time to visit Patan Durbar Square
The best time to visit Patan Durbar Square depends on your interests and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Weather: The weather in Patan Durbar Square is pleasant year-round. The summers are warm and humid, while the winters are cool and dry. If you are sensitive to the cold, avoid visiting during winter.
- Crowds: Patan Durbar Square is a popular tourist destination, so that it can get crowded, especially during the weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is best.
- Festivals: Many festivals are celebrated in Patan Durbar Square throughout the year. These festivals are a great way to experience Nepal’s rich culture and traditions. If you are interested in attending a festival, plan your visit accordingly. Some of the most popular festivals celebrated in Patan Durbar Square are Buddha Jayanti, Gai Jatra, Makar Sankranti, Holi, Dashain and Tihar.
How to Reach Patan Durbar Square
Reaching Patan Durbar Square in Nepal is relatively easy, as it’s located in the heart of the city of Lalitpur, part of the Kathmandu Valley and just a short distance from the capital city of Kathmandu. Here are detailed instructions on how to reach Patan Durbar Square:
- From Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM):
- Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Patan Durbar Square from the airport is by taking a taxi. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the journey should take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Agree on the fare with the taxi driver before starting the journey.
- From Kathmandu (Thamel or City Center):
- Taxi: If you’re in Kathmandu, hire a taxi to reach Patan Durbar Square. The journey from the city center, such as Thamel, should take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Public Bus: You can also take a local public bus to Patan. Ask for directions to the nearest bus stop to Patan Durbar Square. Buses in Nepal are colorful and distinctive, but schedules and routes can be less predictable. If you choose this option, prepare for a potentially longer and more crowded journey.
- From Bhaktapur:
- Taxi: If you’re in Bhaktapur, another historic city in the Kathmandu Valley, you can taxi to Patan Durbar Square. The journey will take approximately 30-45 minutes.
- From Other Locations:
- Tourist Bus: Some tour operators in Kathmandu offer guided tours, including a visit to Patan Durbar Square. Check with your hotel or a local tour agency for availability.
- On Foot:
- If you’re staying in the Lalitpur area or enjoy walking, you can reach Patan Durbar Square on foot within a reasonable distance. The city’s streets and alleys are full of interesting sights, so walking can be a pleasant way to explore the area.
Final Note:
Patan Durbar Square isn’t just a collection of temples and palaces; it’s a living museum where the past gracefully coexists with the present. It’s a place where locals gather for daily rituals, artisans continue age-old craftsmanship, and visitors worldwide come to marvel at the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The beauty of Patan Durbar Square lies not only in its physical grandeur but also in the stories it silently tells—the stories of devotion, creativity, and resilience that have shaped the soul of Nepal. It stands as a symbol of the unity of diverse cultures, a place where Buddhism and Hinduism harmoniously converge, and where the spiritual and the artistic find common ground.