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

• 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.
• 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.
• Bhairavnath Temple
  • Dedicated to Bhairav, the God of Terror.
  • A three-storied pagoda-style temple.
  • Known for its artistic beauty and religious significance.
• 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.
• 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.
• Thimi
  • A nearby Newar town famous for pottery and farming.
  • Supplies pottery and vegetables to Kathmandu.
  • Known for Balkumari Temple and Karunamaya Temple.
• Surya Binayak Temple
  • Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
  • Located in a forest south of Bhaktapur.
  • Crowded with devotees especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
• 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.