Bhaktapur is a city of living heritage and is a great day trip from Kathmandu. Despite the damage done during the 2015 earthquake, it's still an incredible place to visit!
Known as the 'Golden City' of Nepal, this ancient Newar kingdom is famed for its courtyards and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It's also known for its traditional pottery and wood carving traditions.
Taumadhi Square
Taumadhi Square or Tachupal Tole is the original central gathering place in Bhaktapur and one of its most renowned squares. It is flanked by a series of traditional buildings and is the site of Nyatapola Temple, one of the tallest pagodas in Nepal.
There is also a pond called Siddha Pokhari which was built in the 15th century and is surrounded by several traditional buildings. It is a popular picnic spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The Vatsala Temple is located between the Durbar Square and the Pashupatinath temple and was originally built in 1672 by King Jagat Prakash Malla. It was damaged during the earthquake in 2015 and is now being restored.
Dattatreya Square
Bhaktapur’s Dattatreya Square is a popular place to visit with a wide range of cultural heritages and stalls that sell traditional arts and architectures handicrafts. It is less crowded than the main Durbar Square, but you will have the opportunity to see a number of ancient temples and museums.
There is a large temple dedicated to Dattatreya, a curious hybrid deity that blends elements of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The temple features a golden gate and a gilded torana (a gallery of metal craftsmanship) with the family deity of the Malla Kings, Taleju Bhawani.
A window carving of a peacock sets high in the wall is also a highlight of the Dattatreya Square. It is a treasured piece of Nepali art and is sometimes referred to as the Mona Lisa.
Tamadhi Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the most renowned attractions in Nepal, offering visitors a chance to see ancient art and architecture and experience the rich culture of this city. The area is also home to many interesting sites and landmarks, so make sure to check them out during your visit!
Tamadhi Square is the main entrance to the Durbar Square and houses traditional buildings and monuments that offer an insight into the city’s heritage. Some of the most notable sights in the area include Nyatapola Temple, Bhairabnath Temple, and Til Mahadev Narayan Temple.
The square is especially lively during festivals, such as the Bisket Jatra. This is a three-day event where the head priest worships Lord Bhairava and people are allowed to bring offerings of fruits, animals, and food.
Pottery Square
Pottery Square is the heart of Bhaktapur's ceramic industry. This sloping open space south of Taumadhi Tol is lined with potters wheels, rows of clay ware drying in the sun and traditional Nepali straw fired clay kilns.
It's a great place to get close to the craft. There are a few shops selling finished pottery, and you can also see the firing process behind the potters wheels.
The best time to visit is during the dry season or winter when there are plenty of potters out in the open sun drying their wares. I personally like to stand underneath the Ganesh temple or in the central area and watch them work.
Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the main attractions in Bhaktapur. The square is home to various palaces, temples and other interesting historical structures.
The principle palace in the Durbar Square built by King Jitamitra Malla contains 55 windows and was the royal palace of the Malla kingdom until 1769. Today, the palace is a national gallery and a great place to see old Hindu art and architecture.
Another popular attraction in the square is the Vatsala Durga Temple. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga, the incarnation of Lord Krishna.
