Bagmati
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is famed for its preserved old city, pottery, temples, and timeless Newari architecture rich in history and craftsmanship.
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All Places in Bhaktapur
The 55 Window Palace, locally known as Pachpanna Jhyale Durbar, is a masterpiece of Newari architecture located within the heart of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. This 18th-century structure is celebrated as one of the most significant cultural landmarks in the Kathmandu Valley.
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Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal, featuring the 15th-century 55-Window Palace (Pachpanna Jhyale Durbar) known for its intricate woodcarvings and the adjacent Golden Gate. Built in 1754, the Golden Gate is a masterpiece of repoussé art, acting as the entrance to the Taleju Temple complex.
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The Golden Gate, or Lu Dhowka, is widely considered the most beautiful and richly molded specimen of its kind in the entire world. It serves as the primary entrance to the inner courtyards of the royal palace and the sacred Taleju Temple complex.
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The king most famously associated with Bhaktapur Durbar Square is King Bhupatindra Malla (reigned 1696-1722). He is widely considered the most influential of the Bhaktapur Malla kings, responsible for the city's "Golden Age" of art and architecture.
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The Siddhi Vatsala Temple is a striking stone monument dedicated to the goddess Vatsala Devi, a form of Durga. Located in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, it is easily identified by its distinctive Shikhara style, which contrasts with the tiered wooden pagodas typically found in the square
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Travel Guide
Bhaktapur — Complete Guide
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About
About Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon and famously called the “City of Devotees,” is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Nepal. Located 12 km east of Kathmandu on the Arniko Highway, it sits at an altitude of 1,401 meters and covers an area of 6.4 square kilometers. Bhaktapur is a major tourist destination known for preserving its medieval atmosphere, with brick-paved roads, red brick houses, and traditional lifestyles. The city is especially famous for its pottery, woodcarving, temples, monuments, and artistic architecture, making it a treasure of Nepalese culture and history.
Major Attractions of Bhaktapur
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Bhaktapur Durbar Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Historic palace square surrounded by buildings from the 13th to 18th century.
- Famous for the Palace of 55 Carved Windows and the Golden Gate.
- Reflects the glory of the Malla dynasty.
- Includes monuments like Lion Gate, Batsala Temple, and statue of King Bhupatindra Malla.
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Nyatapola Temple
- A famous five-storied temple and landmark of Bhaktapur.
- Known for surviving the devastating 1933 earthquake.
- Dedicated to a Tantric goddess.
- Decorated with powerful stone sculptures and mythical beasts.
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Bhairavnath Temple
- Dedicated to Bhairav, the God of Terror.
- A three-storied pagoda-style temple.
- Known for its artistic beauty and religious significance.
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Dattatreya Square
- Named after Dattatreya Temple, dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
- Temple is believed to have been built from a single tree trunk.
- Famous for the beautifully carved Peacock Windows.
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Siddha Pokhari
- A large historic rectangular pond from the Lichhavi period.
- Surrounded by stone statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities.
- Known for its fish and peaceful atmosphere.
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Thimi
- A nearby Newar town famous for pottery and farming.
- Supplies pottery and vegetables to Kathmandu.
- Known for Balkumari Temple and Karunamaya Temple.
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Surya Binayak Temple
- Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
- Located in a forest south of Bhaktapur.
- Crowded with devotees especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
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Changu Narayan Temple (World Heritage Monument)
- One of the oldest pagoda-style temples in Nepal.
- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Famous for its wood and stone carvings.
Quick Info
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Best Time
When to Visit
October to December and March to April are the best times to visit Bhaktapur due to pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant cultural festivals.
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Getting There
How to Reach
Bhaktapur is easily reachable by road from Kathmandu (approx. 13 km) via Pashupati Highway or Araniko Highway. Taxis, buses, and private vehicles are available. The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
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Culture
Food & Culture
Bhaktapur is a stronghold of Newari culture. Local foods include Juju Dhau (king curd), Bara (lentil pancakes), momo, and other Newari dishes. Handicrafts, pottery, mask making, and traditional festivals are integral to life here. Festivals like Bisket Jatra, Gai Jatra, Dashain, and Tihar are celebrated with rich local traditions.
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Activities
Top Things To Do
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Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square with its temples and palaces
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Visit Nyatapola Temple, one of the tallest pagoda-style temples in Nepal
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Walk through Taumadhi and Dattatreya Squares
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Experience local pottery and traditional crafts in Bhaktapur streets
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Taste Bhaktapur's famous Juju Dhau (King Curd) at local shops
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Attend or observe local festivals such as Bisket Jatra and Gai Jatra
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Visit Siddha Pokhari and other historic water ponds
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Explore the small lanes and alleys to experience daily Newari life
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Shop for handmade pottery, wood carvings, and traditional textiles
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FAQ
Before You Go
Q.Where is Bhaktapur located?
Bhaktapur lies in Bagmati Province within the Kathmandu Valley, east of Kathmandu city.
Q.What is Bhaktapur famous for?
Historic architecture, Newari culture, temples, and Juju Dhau.
Q.Is Bhaktapur suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes, it is culturally rich and easy to explore within a day or two.
Q.How many days are enough for Bhaktapur?
2 to 3 days to explore major sites and experience festivals.
Q.Which festivals are popular in Bhaktapur?
Bisket Jatra, Gai Jatra, Dashain, and Tihar.
Q.What kind of travel is Bhaktapur best for?
Cultural heritage, photography, food tourism, and traditional experiences.
Q.Are there local handicrafts to buy?
Pottery, wood carvings, masks, and traditional textiles.