Bhaktapur

Preservation of its ancient character

Bhaktapur, which has preserved its ancient character is the place to see the wonderful temple architecture and medieval Nepalese town life. Bhaktapur is full of character and friendly people. It is very serene and a great escape from the crowded Kathmandu. It is renowned for elegant art, architecture, culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances and the Newar liefestyle. Durbar Square This square is the best preserved of the three Durbar Squares in the valley (the others being Kathmandu and Patan). The Palace of 55 Windows built during the period of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1754 situated to the left as you enter through the city gate. The National Art Gallery is housed inside. There are temples of various designs around the square and even a modern day cybercafé! Taumadhi Square Tauadhi Square lies to the east of Durbar Square reached by a narrow brick-paved lane. The towering five-roofed Nyatapol temple presides over the square. Dattatreya Square It takes its name from the Dattatreya temple dedicated to a three-headed combination of the Hindu deities Brahma, Bishnu and Shiva. Set in a maze of streets lined with richly ornamented houses, the square is famed for its many ornate Hindu monasteries known as Math. The National Woodworking Museum is also housed here and the Brass and Bronze Museum is across the street. Potter’s Square South of Durbar Square is Bolachhen, also known as Potter’s Square because of the many potters seen here moulding wet clay into different kinds of earthen ware. There is much fresh pottery left out to dry in the open square. Siddha Pukhu The pond dating back to the Lichhavi period, is better known as Ta-Pukhu, meaning big pond. Though situated right at the bus stop, it provides a serene atmosphere with its sashaying fish and the stone images of different Hindu and Buddhist Gods.