Explore Bhaktapur : A historic city in Kathmandu Valley

Explore Bhaktapur: A historic city in Kathmandu Valley

I have started my travel journey from Thamel to Bhaktapur. I have planned my travel route as Thamel to Changu Narayan temple, then back to Dattatreya Square, Nyatapola Temple, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Bhaktapur is a historic city located in the eastern part of the Kathmandu valley. It is revered as the home of traditional Nepali culture, customs, and distinctive wood and pottery. The ancient monuments all around represent Nepal's medieval era culture and customs, and this old city is inhabited by significant communities of indigenous Newari people. My route's main attractions include Changu Narayan Temple, Nyatapola Temple, King Bhupatindra Malla's statue, the Peacock Window, the Golden Gate, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square's fifty-five-windowed palace.

Changu Narayan Temple	Dattatreya Temple
Bhaktapur Durbar Square	Major Attractions Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Changu Narayan Temple

Around 20 km from Themel, I reached my first destination, Changu Narayan Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To explore the Changu Narayan temple, there is an entry fee. The entry fee for foreign nationals is 300 NPR and 200 for SAARC nationals. After about 5 minutes of walking toward the Changu Narayan temple finally I reached the point. Due to Earthquake in 2015, the Changu Narayan Temple is severely damaged and reconstruction is taking place, I cannot capture and explore the stone, wood, and metal artistry and temple structure clearly.

Changu Narayan Temple is often regarded as Nepal's oldest Hindu temple. This historic temple is devoted to the lord Vishnu. The temple and its grounds are littered with fifth-century stone inscriptions about Lord Vishnu.

Dattatreya Temple Square

After exploring this damaged site, I was backed towards Dattatreya Square. Dattatreya Square is about 4km from Changu Narayan Temple, On the way to Dattatreya temple, there are a lot of temples, and shrines of different gods. In every courtyard, we can see small temples, this is the beauty of historic cities such as Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.

After reaching Dattatreya temple, it was wonderful to explore the temple's surroundings with Black Coffee.

Dattatreya Square is one of Bhaktapur's oldest squares. The square is located east of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The Dattatreya Square is called after the square's major temple, Dattatreya. The square features an open middle space with two big temples and one minor temple.

After roaming around the squares have found there is a Museum called Wood Carving Museum, No entry tickets are required. On the opposite Wood Carving Museum, behind the Dattatreya temple, There is also a beautiful wood-crafted window called Peacock Window.

The window is supposed to have been built in the 15th century. It is sometimes referred to as Nepal's "Mona Lisa." It is the most treasured item in the country.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Now it's time for exploring Bhaktapur durbar square, which is 10-12 minutes of walking distance from Dattatreya Square. It's easy to reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square, continue to stone walk away will lead directly towards the Bhaktapur Durbar Square area.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the most popular tourist site in Bhaktapur. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 55-window palace is one of the most intriguing monuments here. It was erected in 1427 AD by Malla King Yaksha Malla and renovated in the 17th century by King Bhupendra. The square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the Valley as it highlights the ancient arts of Nepal.

The Major attraction of Bhaktapur Darbar Square

Golden Gate

This is the main entrance to the palace. The craftsman who worked on this wonderful gate must be from Heaven. It is an eternal beauty in itself.

55 Window Palace

This is the dominant architectural structure that dominates the whole of Durbar Square. This amazing structure was created in the 15th century AD. King Bhupatindra Malla is seated on a massive column top, praying to God.

Nyatapola Temple

This is Nepal's most renowned, five-storied pagoda Style, Temple. This is Nepal's highest pagoda-style temple, created with architectural excellence and artistic beauty. This temple is dedicated to Sidhilaxmi, the tantric goddess of supreme power and success.

Bhairava Nath Temple

This temple is dedicated to Bhairava the God of terror and death.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square was also damaged by Earthquake, but renovation is completed.

What is the best time to visit Bhaktapur?

The best time to visit Bhaktapur is during the spring (March to April) and Autumn (October to November). The weather here is pleasant during these seasons as the sky is clear and the Himalayas are visible.

What is Bhaktapur famous for?

Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaun, is well-known for its religious, cultural, and historical history. This city is renowned as an open museum since it is rich in ancient artworks, religious values, amazing cultural traditions, architectural treasures, and antique sculptures. Furthermore, the city is known as a city of gods.

Which food is Bhaktapur famous for?

The most famous and delicious variety of dhau is 'Juju dhau,' which is known for its rich taste and thick consistency. Bhaktapur is famous for its delicious 'Juju Dhau,' also known as the 'King of Curds.' Juju Dhau is served in a tiny clay pot and is produced with fresh buffalo milk.