Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is also listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site lies 13km east from Kathmandu. The place where the durbar square is situated in Bhaktapur also known as Bhadgaun/Khwopa. The major visiting areas of the complex are 55 windows temple, Bhairav temple, Golden Temple, Nyatapola temple and many others. Bhaktapur is considered to be the place of traditional Nepali culture, customs, arts and artic rafts. This place is surrounded by Newari people in the large group. The temples and shrines located in the area define the traditions of early Nepal. Bhaktapur is known as the most ancient city.

Durbar square used to be the home place of royal families. There are basically four different squares i.e. Taumadhi Square, Durbar Square, Pottery Square and Dattatreya Square. The ancient temples and other architecture here lasts since the 17th 18th century. The overall square premises is a bunch of art and architecture that was developed by Newari people.

Alike other Durbar squares Bhaktapur Durbar Square also was severely caused due to the massive earthquake of 2015. Many buildings have already been reconstructed whereas some are still in the process to recover back. Visitors can still see the damage while exposing.

Some major appeal of the premises.

55 windows palace: The palace was built by Malla king in the 14^th century. The name of the palace is given after its balcony which consists of 55 windows. The palace is regarded as a distinctive architecture of woodcarving. This is also considered as the oldest masterpiece.

Bhairava Nath Temple: The temple is dedicated to Bhairav who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The entrance of the temple is guarded by two lions holding a Nepali flag. Going through the right side of the door visitors can see the idol of Bhairav.

Nyatapola Temple: It is a five-storeyed Hindu temple established by Malla King in the 17^th century. This sculptured building is quite attractive and known to be the tallest pagodas of the country. We can see the five roofs in every store with different arts and statues.

Golden Gate: Alike other architecture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square this monument was also developed by Malla King. The gate is covered by the idol of Hindu Goddess Kali and Garuda. On top of that, we can see the statue surmounted with some supernatural serpents. Golden Gate was also considered as an attractive masterpiece by Percy Brown, an art critic and historian.

Additional Information

• Cameras are restricted in some areas which must be strictly followed by the visitors. However one can enjoy taking the photographs in a permitted area.
• Bhaktapur is famous for ”Curd”. Thus it is personally recommended for the visitors to give a try.
• One can feel the architecture of the heritage even with its smell. Thus one should not miss this site.