Situated at an altitude of 1,401 m, Bhaktapur covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur or the City of Devotees still retains a medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated to myriad wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulers continues to be reflected at the Durbar Square. Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. Bhaktapur is famous for woodcarving and the Bhadgaolen topi or cap. The city lies about 14 km east of Kathmandu and can be reached by public transport
and by trolley buses.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The Golden Gate is the entrance to the main court yard of the Palace of 55 Windows. Built by King Ranjit Malla, the gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world. This gate is embellished with deities and monsters with marvelous intricacy. The Palace of 55 Windows was built in 1700 AD. Among the brick walls in their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows. This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving.
The stone temple of Batsala Devi which is also located in the Durbar Square is full of intricate carvings. This temple a beautiful example of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal.
There is a bronze bell on the terrace of the temple which is also known as the "Bell of Barking Dogs". This colossal bell, placed in 1737 AD, was rung to signal curfew during those days.
The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like the Lion Gate, the Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery, the Batsala temple, etc.
A magnificent statue of King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979.
Built in 1637 AD, the temple of Lord Krishna holds a commanding position in the palace complex of Patan. It is supposed to be the first specimen of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. It is the only temple in Nepal having 21 spires and is completely made of stone.
- The National Art Gallery
Contains ancient and medieval paintings belonging to Hindu and Buddhist schools depicting Tantrism of various periods and descriptions.
- Nyatapola Temple
This five-story pagoda was built In 1702 AD by King Bhupatindra Malla. It stands on a five-terraced platform. On each of the terraces squat a pair of figures. This is one of the tallest pagodas and is famous for its massive structure and subtie workmanship.
- Bhairavnath Temple
This temple was first built as a one-story pagoda but was later changed into a three-storey temple in 1718 AD by King Bhupatindra Malla. The temple is noted for its artistic grandeur. It is dedicated to Lord Bhairav - the God of terror.
- Dattatraya Temple
Built in 1427 AD, this temple is said to have been built from the trunk of a single tree. Near this temple is a monastery with exquisitely carved peacock windows.
- Dattratrà ya Square
The Square takes its name from the Dattrataya Temple. The Square is famous for ornate monasteries known as Maths. The National Wood-working Museum and the Brass and Bronze Museum are housed here.
Outskirts of Bhaktapur
- Surya Vinayak
Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhadgaon, the temple of Ganesh is placed in a sylvan setting to catch the first rays of the rising sun. It is a good picnic spot f1anked by many attractive landscapes.
- Thimi
Thimi is a farming town situated 8km east of Kathmandu on the way to Bhaktapur. Thimi is famous for earthen pots, home spun cotton cloth and artistic masks.
- Changu Narayan
Situated at the end of a long ridge which runs well into the Valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest. temple in the Valley. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979.
- Khokana
Khokana is a Newar farming village lying 7 km south of the Ring Road that encircles the two cities of Kathmandu and Patan. The village begins with a wide cobbled street and in the middle of the main street lies the temple of Shekali Mai, Kokhana's local mother Goddess. Khokana is famous for mustard oil, which is still made the traditional way, and spun woollen yam.
- Panauti
It is a thriving Newari village with beautiful temples and interesting old houses. The drive passes through the beautiful countryside.
- Namo Buddha
It is situated on a hill above Panauti. It requires an easy drive or good walk to get there. There is an amazing legend related to the Buddha which is commemorated by an ancient stone slab and a stupa with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha.
- Timal Narayan
The route from Dhulikhel to Timal Narayan is ideal for a short trek. From here one can have a beautiful view of Gaurishankar Himal and other important peaks as well as the Sunkoshi river. A pleasant option is to visit the village of the Tamang people in this area.
- Palanchowk Bhagawati
It is a 42km, one hour drive from Kathmandu to Palanchowk on the Arniko Highway (Highway to Tibet border). This noted historic temple of goddess Kali is located at a hilltop some 7km north of Panchkhal. One can really enjoy the panoramic view of the landscape from this spot. This temple is said to have been constructed during the reign of King Man Dev. The temple houses a three feet high idol of goddess Bhagwati (Kali) artistically carved in a black stone which is one of the best examples of such intricate workmanship.
