Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square also known as Hanuman Durbar Square is another appeal of Kathmandu valley which is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site. The premises are covered by handicrafts, fountains, ancient statues, and a sequence of the enclosure.

Durbar squares are the ancient historical palace, which is now the remains of the small kingdom before the unification. The Hanuman statue stands right in front of the main entrance of the palace, which was established by King Pratap Malla. Hanuman Dhoka Durbar was named after this statue. The architecture here is built-in Pagoda style and most of the buildings seen here are from the 15-18^th century

The Durbar square literally consists of two major sub-areas. The outer premises consists of flabbergasting Pagoda styles monuments like Shiva Parbati temple, Kastamandap, Kumari temple ( The living Goddess) whereas inner premises consists of an old palace, Hanuman Dhoka and its yard like Mul Chok , Sundari Chok ,Nasal Chok, Basantapur Durbar and others. Apart from these beautiful temples and shrines, Durbar square is also well known for different cultural activities, traditions and festivals which people have been following for hundreds of decades. These major festivals involve Gai Jatra, Indra Gatra, Dasain and Tihar and many others.

Moreover, these historical architectures, shrines and buildings were highly caused by the devastating earthquake. Some are already repaired whereas others are still in the construction. However, the beauty of this heritage site is never going to fade away.

One can see the ancient architecture, galleries, fountains and different ideals in the premises of Kathmandu Durbar Square. However, the major view spot in the complex are:

Kastamandap Temple:  Kastamandap also known as Kathmandu in Nepalese is situated in the southwest of Durbar Square. It was built around the 12^th century covered with woods. It is a three-layered pagoda-style building which carries the shrines of Gorakhnath, Ganesh and statues of other Gods in ever section of the yard.

Hanuman Dhoka Square: It is also known as the royal palace of Malla Kings and Shah dynasty. It is the largest historical site which is spread over 5acres land. It comprises of plentiful arts and gallery which is very rare. Hanuman Dhoka got its name from the statue of Hanuman, the deity of Hindu in the main entrance which was built by King Pratap Malla

Kumari Bahal: Kumari Bahal which is situated in the southern side of the square is the quarter of Kumari (The Living Goddess) who are regarded as an incarnation of Goddess Taleju. Even the Kings used to worship and take blessings from Kumari with great admiration. The practice of Kumari was prevalent since the 17^th century during the time of Malla Kings. These Kumari are from the Newari culture and has to adapt very strict protocols for the selection process. The living Goddess is not more than 5 years old when they are selected for the purpose.

Shiva Parbati Mandir: The temple which was built in 18^th century by Bahadur Shah consists of complex carvings throughout its wall. At the top of the centre of the temple, visitors can have a glance of an idol of Shiva and Pārbati peeping out of the window. It is the representative of the most ancient architecture. There are two huge lions guarding the entrance of the temple.

Kal Bhairava: In the premises of Hanuman Dhoka there lies a grand temple known as Kal Bhairav. Bhairav is the reincarnation of Lord Shiva who is being portrayed, holding a sword, enemy vessels and wearing an apron of human bones. The statue of Bhairav which is in the open space is built in the 6^th century and is surrounded by stones

Taleju Temple: In the northern side of Kathmandu Durbar Square there lies a twelve-storeyed temple known as Taleju Temple which was constructed in 1549. The temple which is closed throughout the year is opened only once during the festival of Dashain. The temple comprises of small monuments, stone carvings of lions, monsters and many others.

Additional Information

• It is the best place to visit esp. in the evening time where one can find benches to observe and enjoy the view of the premises.
• Kumari ( Living Goddess)
• Nepalese are quite friendly. So tourist can spare their time to talk with local people out there.
• The place is quite cool and soothing. Thus one can also be refreshed through the means of meditation