One of the best-known tourist attractions in Nepal is Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square is composed of several temples, palaces, and courtyards, which are all constructed in the traditional Newari style.
History of Bhaktapur Durbar:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square has a history dating back to the 12th century when the Malla dynasty founded the city. The square advanced during the Malla period (12-18th centuries) – the golden period of Newari culture. Several key buildings were built in the square, including the Nyatapola temple, the Dattatreya temple, and the Fifty-Five Windows Palace.
The architecture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square Nepal
Unique Hindu and Buddhist blended architecture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The buildings are built with complex bricks, carved wooden doors and windows, and roofs with intricate designs. Some of the most notable buildings in the square include:
- Nyatapola Temple: The tallest temple in Nepal, one of the most known Bhaktapur landmarks, is a five-story temple. The temple, dedicated to Siddhi Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and success, is located in Kakatiya’s dynasty.
- Dattatreya Temple: This temple is devoted to the Hindu god Dattatreya, which is a manifestation of three primary Hindu gods including Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple is famous for its elaborate brickwork and its wooden doors and windows.
- Fifty-Five Windows Palace: The palace was constructed in the fifteenth century, and it served as the home of the Malla kings. The palace is famous for its 55 windows that have delicate carvings.
- Lion’s Gate: One of the major entry gates into Bhaktapur Durbar Square. On each side of the gate stand two stone lions, which are symbols of the mightiness of the Malla dynasty.
- Pashupati Temple: The Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the most sacred temple in this country. The Temple of Lord Pashupatinath, situated on the banks of the Bagmati River, remains a primary Hindu pilgrim site.
Festivals of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square serves to hold many essential festivals annually. The most common is the Bisket Jatra, held in April or May. This festival marks the New Year, also with a chariot procession of a form of the Hindu god Shiva known as Bhairav.
Other important festivals held in Bhaktapur Durbar Square include:
- Dashain: A ten-day festival in October or November to celebrate the triumph of good over evil.
- Tihar: A Festival of five days celebrating different Hindu gods and goddesses, including Laxmi, Goddess of wealth, is celebrated in October or November.
- Khicha Pokhari Mela: An annual fair held in November or December to mark the end of the monsoon season.
Timings of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- Summer: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Winter: 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fees of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
- Nepalese Nationals: NPR 50
- Nepali Students (upon providing ID): NPR 25
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 500
- Foreign Nationals (except SAARC): NPR 1800
Notes:
- Children below ten years have free entry.
- The tickets are valid for 24 hours, which would give you an entire day to roam around the square and see all the attractions it has to offer.
- You can purchase tickets at the entrance gate to the square.
15 Closest Hotels to Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Hotel Heritage (200 meters)
- Peacock Guest House (250 meters)
- Newari Boutique Hotel (300 meters)
- Hotel Shree Durbar (350 meters)
- Yeti Guest House (400 meters)
- Hotel Newari (450 meters)
- Yak & Yeti Guest House (500 meters)
- Hotel Ancient Palace (550 meters)
- Hotel Bhaktapur Inn (600 meters)
- Hotel Himal (650 meters)
- Hotel Nepalaya (700 meters)
- Hotel Royal (750 meters)
- Hotel Dwarika’s (800 meters)
- Hotel Kathmandu Guest House (850 meters)
- Hotel Yak & Yeti (900 meters)
- Hotel Shree Bhaktapur (950 meters)
How To Reach:
By taxi: This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive. Taxis can be hired from anywhere in Kathmandu and will take you directly to Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The journey takes 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
By bus: There are regular buses from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur. The buses depart from the Ratna Park Bus Stand in Kathmandu and take 45 minutes to reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The buses are relatively inexpensive and are a good option if you are on a budget.
FAQ’s:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous tourist destination in Nepal. It is a former royal palace complex now home to many temples, courtyards, and other historical buildings.
Nyatapola Temple, Dattatreya Temple, Fifty-Five Windows Palace, Lion’s Gate, and Pashupati Temple.
March-May is the best time to visit.
Wear comfortable shoes; bring a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
