Bhaktapur Durbar Square is undoubtedly one of the best sites to visit in Nepal that embodies the richness of Newari art, architecture, and history. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is another UNESCO World Heritage site in Kathmandu Valley that showcases Nepal’s historic and architectural arts and rich culture.
Once housed as a Royal Palace complex for Malla Kings of Nepal, this World Heritage site is filled with primeval shrines, idols and traditional Newari houses. Occupied with beautiful wood and metal crafts and cultural significances, this square is an important location for any individual who wants to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.
Main attractions of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- 55-Window Palace: A palace which is famous for its beautifully crafted 55 wooden windows, this palace was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 15th century. Formally, this palace was the house for royal seat until 18th century and now is used by National Art Gallery for displaying historic artifacts and many other significant historical arts.
- Vatsala Temple: This temple is home for goddess Vatsala which features exceptional Shikhara-style architecture and complex carvings. There is a bell inside this temple, which is known as “Bell of Barking Dogs” because of the bell sound that causes local dogs to bark.
- Nyatapola Temple: This temple is the tallest temple the Durbar Square, a five-story pagoda, was made under the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702. The homes for goddess Siddhi Laxmi, this temple have huge sequence of large stone guardians on each level.
- Bhairab Nath Temple: This temple houses an idol of fierce deity Bhairab, an incarnation of a Lord Shiva which exhibits complex wooden carvings.
- Dattatreya Square: Situated at just a short walk from the center of square, this historical site is home for the Dattatreya temple, a temple which is believed to have built from a single tree. The temple is home for the most celebrated and worshipped deities of Hindu religion, the trinity gods i.e. Brahma, Visnu and Shiva.
- Pottery Square: The pottery square in this site is a pivotal place for witnessing traditional clay art where one can observe potters making artistic pottery by hand and traditional kilns. This area has been successful to preserve the artistic and beautiful side of traditional pottery, making it a unique attraction.
- Taumadhi Square: As you stroll around the Square complex will get to see beautiful temples and local vendors, musicians and locals performing their daily rituals. During the major festival of Bisket Jatra, one of the biggest celebrations, chariot processions along with traditional dances and music is carried out making it a site that offers you lifetime experience.
Overview of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square Tour
The ancient city of Bhaktapur is one of the oldest cities in the world. As you stroll around the Durbar square you will feel like you are walking in the open air museum. You will see beautiful 18th century structures all around here. The ancient Royal Palace at Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the most attractive places in the city. A visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square complex provides both religious and historical sightseeing opportunities, as the complex contains a number of temples as well as surviving palaces and monuments.
The ancient city of Bhaktapur is best known for its Pagoda and Shikhar style temples, Lonha Haiti (stone spouts), ponds, Vihars and Bahis (traditional Buddhist monasteries), Math, and Sattal (public shelters), terracotta temples, Dyochhens (residence of Hindu Deities), palaces, artistic private houses, and other cultural and historical monuments.
The grand festivals of the native Newars, their way of life, traditions, daffa (prayer groups), kudi and traditional dance groups make up the city's intangible heritage. The adreline rush when one participates in Bisket Jatra chariot procession offers a wonderful experience. The square rich in cultural relevancies, artistic beauties and historical importance, a tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square can be a long-lasting memory.
Final Words:
A tour with the exploration experience of witnessing Nepal’s rich heritage, visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square is more than a visit. It is a journey throughout time that symbolizes the well-crafted artistic beauty with thoughtful geometrical construction and the rich history.
The square’s blend of earliest architecture and dynamic values makes it a must-visit destination, whether you are passionate about history, architecture, or simply fascinated by Nepal’s exceptional way of life. So, pack you backpack and book you city tour to this wonderful heritage site with the Iconic Himalayan Adventure to experience unforgettable experience.
