Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a captivating open-air museum that showcases the richness of medieval art and architecture in Nepal. Renowned for its exquisite temples, ancient palaces, intricately carved woodwork, and monumental stone sculptures, Bhaktapur is one of the most historically preserved cities in the Kathmandu Valley.
Located just 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur—also known as Khwopa in the local Newari language—is a city steeped in devotion, artistry, and cultural heritage. Despite being Nepal’s smallest district, Bhaktapur surpasses expectations with its rich history, timeless architecture, and vibrant local culture.
Major Squares in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur comprises four main heritage squares, each with its own historical and cultural significance:
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square – the former royal palace complex
- Taumadhi Square – home to the iconic Nyatapola Temple
- Dattatreya Square – rich in spiritual symbolism and woodcraft
- Pottery Square – a living tradition of ceramic craftsmanship
Together, these sites form the greater Bhaktapur Durbar Square area, recognized globally as a UNESCO World Heritage Zone.
Top Places to Visit in Bhaktapur Durbar Square
1. 55 Windows Palace
The 55 Windows Palace is a remarkable masterpiece of 17th-century Nepalese architecture. Constructed during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla, this historic royal residence is adorned with 55 intricately carved wooden windows, showcasing the finest craftsmanship of the era. Open to the public on select days, the palace offers glimpses into Bhaktapur’s regal past.
2. Golden Gate (Lu Dhowka)
The Golden Gate is one of the most visually striking structures in Bhaktapur Durbar Square. This gilded gate leads to the Taleju Temple courtyard and is embellished with mythological deities including Goddess Taleju, Garuda, and other Hindu symbols. It stands as a prime example of metal artistry in Nepal.
3. Taleju Temple
Accessible through the Golden Gate, the Taleju Temple is one of Bhaktapur’s oldest and most sacred religious monuments, built in the 14th century. Dedicated to the royal goddess Taleju Bhawani, the temple’s inner courtyard is restricted to Hindus, but visitors can admire its remarkable wooden and stone carvings from the outside. Adjacent to the temple lies a beautifully designed ceremonial pond with intricate stone serpent motifs.
4. Vatsala Devi Temple
Standing proudly in front of the palace, the Vatsala Devi Temple is built entirely of sandstone and rests on a three-tiered platform. It is comparable in design to the Krishna Mandir of Patan and is dedicated to a manifestation of Goddess Durga. A nearby bell, known as the Taleju Bell, was once used to summon the goddess.
5. Siddhi Lakshmi Temple
The Siddhi Lakshmi Temple is a stone marvel showcasing Shikhara-style architecture. The staircase leading to the shrine is lined with statues of animals and mythical creatures such as camels, lions, and rhinoceroses. The temple honors Siddhi Lakshmi, a Tantric goddess worshipped for protection and prosperity.
6. Nyatapola Temple
The Nyatapola Temple, standing at 30 meters, is the tallest temple in Nepal. Built in 1702 during King Bhupatindra Malla’s reign, it is dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. This five-tiered pagoda structure is renowned for its architectural brilliance and seismic resilience, having withstood multiple major earthquakes, including the 2015 disaster.
7. Bhairav Nath Temple
Directly opposite the Nyatapola Temple, the Bhairav Nath Temple is devoted to the fierce form of Lord Shiva—Bhairav. The three-story temple is significant during Biska Jatra, when the deity’s statue is paraded through the city in an elaborate chariot procession.
8. Dattatreya Temple
Located in Dattatreya Square, this temple is dedicated to Dattatreya, a composite form of the Hindu trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Built in the 15th century, the temple features stunning woodwork and is guarded by two iconic stone wrestlers. Legend holds that it was crafted from a single tree.
9. Peacock Window
A short walk from Dattatreya Temple leads to the renowned Peacock Window—also known as “Nepal’s Mona Lisa of woodcraft.” This ornate wooden masterpiece features a peacock framed in an intricately detailed lattice design, and is considered the finest example of traditional Newari woodcarving in Nepal.
10. Pottery Square
Pottery Square is a vibrant courtyard where traditional potters shape clay using age-old techniques. Visitors can observe live pottery-making, purchase handcrafted items, or try their hand at shaping clay on the potter’s wheel.
11. Siddhapokhari
Located a few minutes from the Durbar Square, Siddhapokhari is Bhaktapur’s largest historical pond. Originally built in the Lichhavi period, it is a tranquil space where you can feed fish, enjoy a peaceful walk, or simply relax by the water. Boating may be available seasonally.
Top Things to Do in Bhaktapur Durbar Square
1. Cultural Sightseeing
Bhaktapur is an immersive destination for those seeking to explore medieval architecture, religious landmarks, and traditional lifestyles. Walking through the narrow lanes, visitors encounter courtyards, statues, and monuments that remain almost untouched by modernity.
2. Taste Bhaktapur’s Signature Yogurt
No visit to Bhaktapur is complete without trying the famous Juju Dhau, meaning “King’s Curd.” Made using traditional methods, this creamy yogurt is a celebrated delicacy. Visitors can also sample authentic Newari cuisine, including bara, choila, yomari, and local herbal drinks.
3. Visit Museums
To delve deeper into the city’s heritage, visit Bhaktapur’s notable museums:
- National Art Gallery – classical Paubha and religious art
- Woodcarving Museum – intricate carvings and tools of the craft
- Brass and Bronze Museum – metal utensils, sculptures, and artifacts
4. Participate in Pottery-Making
At Pottery Square, you can experience traditional ceramic art firsthand. Join a workshop, shape your own pottery under expert guidance, and take home a unique souvenir. Popular items include clay lamps, wind chimes, mugs, and figurines.
5. Sketch or Paint the Monuments
Bhaktapur’s timeless ambiance makes it an ideal destination for artists. Many visitors take part in art fairs or hold live sketching sessions around monuments. The architectural symmetry and woodwork details offer exceptional artistic inspiration.
6. Evening Walk Around Bhaktapur Durbar Square
As the sun sets, Bhaktapur Durbar Square transforms into a magical setting illuminated by warm lights. The wooden and stone structures come alive under the glow, making evening strolls particularly enchanting. The peaceful ambiance and lit courtyards offer a unique perspective of the ancient city.
7. Attend Traditional Festivals
Bhaktapur is known for its grand cultural processions and traditional Newari festivals. If you plan your visit during local celebrations, you may witness:
- Biska Jatra (Nepali New Year)
- Gai Jatra
- Panchadan
- Indra Jatra
- Krishna Janmashtami
- Dashain and Tihar
These festivals bring the city to life with chariot parades, masked dances, music, and vibrant rituals.
8. Visit Historical Ponds
Apart from Siddhapokhari, other notable ponds in Bhaktapur include:
- Napukhu
- Bhajya Pukhu
- Kamal Pokhari
- Rani Pokhari
These ponds serve as both spiritual and recreational spaces where visitors can relax, reflect, or feed the fish.
9. Shopping for Traditional Handicrafts
Bhaktapur offers a rich selection of handmade souvenirs and local products, including:
- Bhadgaunle topi (traditional Nepali cap)
- Haku Patasi (black saree with red border)
- Thangka paintings
- Pashmina shawls
- Clay and bronze crafts
- Handmade paper goods
The local markets offer authentic Nepali craftsmanship that reflects centuries of cultural heritage.
Discover the Soul of Nepal in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is more than a historical site—it is a journey into Nepal’s glorious Malla era, a celebration of Newar architecture, and a living showcase of Nepali traditions and spirituality. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, an art lover, or a curious traveler, Bhaktapur offers an enriching experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.
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