Bhaktapur is a central city located in the Bagmati Province of Nepal. It is locally known as “Khwopa” and historically “Bhadgaon.” It is situated in the east corner of the Kathmandu Valley and has an elevation of 1,401 meters.
It is one of the medieval cities of Kathmandu Valley along Patan. The major attraction of Bhaktapur is Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is also a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the smallest city in Nepal and only covers an area of 119 square km. The city is full of rich culture that dates back to the 8th century and is famous for its handicrafts like wood carving and pottery making.
An extraordinary city, Bhaktapur transcends time and space where ancient heritages collide with vibrant culture and traditions. The majestic and holy temple unfolds the secret of the ancestors and it whispers the story of devotees towards their gods. It is known as the city of devotees and the abundance of history, culture, tradition, and diverse architecture has attracted the hearts of locals as well as tourists.
This blog helps you do things when you visit this small yet highly populated city near the heart of Kathmandu Valley. Our company, Mystic Adventure Holiday also provides a Kathmandu Day tour where you can visit the famous places of Bhaktapur as well.
Cultural Attraction
- Nyatapola temple
Nyatapola temple is a masterpiece of Nepali architecture and has a tall height of 30 meters. The temple is a five-story building in pagoda style and the interior is decorated with wood carving, stone sculpture, and divine imagery. The temple was made in and is dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. There is a representation of different deities on every story of the temple hence showing the gradual development of mundane to the divinity.
- Doleshwor Mahadev Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built 400 years ago. There is a belief that visiting Doleshwor Mahadev temple, Pashupatinath, and Kedarnath temple will wash off those sins that devotees have done knowingly or unknowingly via Lord Shiva's blessing.
- Dattatreya Square
Dattatreya Square is dedicated to lord Dattatreya, a combination of the Hindu trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple is a perfect example of Newari craftsmanship and is one of the most dominant features of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The wooden window of the temple is a carved peacock structure and the stone sculpture adds to the cultural richness of the temple.
- Taumadhi Square
Taumadhi Square is popular due to its five-story temple, the Nyatapola. There are a variety of local markets, restaurants, and traditional Newari houses in this area. You can enjoy strolling in the streets and tasting local foods while communicating with the local people.
- Changunarayan temple
Changunarayan temple is located 6.9km away from the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It is the most popular place to visit and is dedicated to lord Vishnu. It is one of the oldest temples in Nepal and the surrounding serenity and panoramic views of the mountains add to the beauty of this temple. The temple has exquisite stone, metal, and wood carvings inside and outside.
Discover hidden temples and courtyards
The narrow lane of the tourist area comprises hidden temples and well-preserved courtyards. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings make your heart in awe. When you are in Bhaktapur don't forget to visit Dattatreya Square and Taumadhi Square.
Golden Gate of Bhaktapur
The Golden Gate of Bhaktapur is at the entrance of the 55-window Palace. It exhibits the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of the Malla dynasty. The construction was initiated by King Bhupatindra Malla and was completed in the period of his successor, Jaya Ranjit Malla. It was built in the traditional pagoda style with woodcarving, metalwork, and artistry dedicated to the goddess Kali. It also holds deep symbolism and spiritual significance while signaling the protection and prosperity of the city. It serves as a gateway to different temples, alleys, and vibrant local culture.
Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was used as a royal residence by the king of Bhaktapur. The four squares complete the whole of Durbar Square, they are Taumadhi Square, Durbar Square, Pottery Square, and Dattatreya Square. It lies 13 km away from Kathmandu and is one of the most visited places in Bhaktapur. It is beautified by numerous temples, palaces, and courtyards. The magnificent square symbolizes the artistic prowess of the local Newari people. The entrance fee for Bhaktapur Durbar Square is out of cost for Nepali citizens, NPR 150 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 1000 for foreign nationals.
Local foods & Wines
The local food and wines are the main attraction in Bhaktapur. From local Newar to tourists, all of them enjoy local Newari dishes. Here are a few dishes to try while in Bhaktapur:
- Bara and wo
Bara and Wo is a must-try duo in Bhaktapur. Bara is a pancake prepared by a paste of black lentils with different spices until it turns golden brown. It is served with Wo, a lentil soup that is added to it while serving. It is consumed as a snack or in the main course.
- Chatamari
Chatamari is known as Nepali pizza. It is made of rice flour base which is added with toppings like minced meat, eggs, chopped vegetables, and flavorful spices. The combination of a thin crispy base and spiceful topping make your tastebuds burst with flavours.
- Yomari
Yomari is a traditional Newari desert and is perfect for your sweet tooth. The visually appealing and incredible dessert is prepared with rice flour dough with sweet filling like molasses, sesame, or coconut. It is designed in intricate shape and each bite is full of sweetness.
- Aela
Aela is a local Newari wine produced by fermentation of rice, grains, and millet and distillation. It is a homemade wine and is mostly consumed during the typical Newari festival. Aela is consumed by the Newari people and they also offer it to gods during the festival.
- Juju Dhau
Juju Dhau is also known as the “King of Yogurts.” Bhaktapur is famous for its dairy treasure, Juju Dhau. It is a yogurt prepared with utmost care and is an age-old recipe that is enriched with a tangy and mildly sweet flavor and velvety texture.
You can enjoy this sweet yogurt plain or add aromatic spices and honey, the choice is all yours. It is the identity of a native of Bhaktapur and has been winning the hearts of people all around the world. The juju Dhau tastes better when consumed in a pot made from mud. You can also buy it in a small, medium, and large size container.
Celebrate Jatras
Bhaktapur is also popular for jatras. It is a sacred traditional festival which provides a glimpse of rich cultural heritages. The fascinating jatras celebrated in Bhaktapur are:
- Bisket Jatra: Welcome Nepali New Year
Bisket Jatra is one of the notable jatra celebrated in the Bhaktapur district. It is annually celebrated during the Nepali New Year, Baisakh (April). At first, devotees erect the wooden chariot tower, while this intricate structure symbolizes the lord Bhairava. Local worships lord Bhairava for bringing good fortune and protecting them against the bad spirits. The exciting tug-of-war between rival communities is the most appealing thing to watch. These rival communities try to pull the chariot among their respective neighborhoods which symbolises teh cosmic battle between gods and demons. Those communities who succeed turn the chariot towards their neighborhood mean that they are blessed by lord Bhairava for the year ahead.
- Gai Jatra
Gai Jatra falls in the month of Bhadra (August/September) annually. During this festival, those families who have lost their loved ones in the past year lead a parade throughout the city. They are accompanied by a young boy or girl dressed as a cow. They believe that dancing to music, and laughter helps their loved ones to step forward to the staircase of heaven. It is a mixture of tradition, satire, and emotional release as families comfort themself by celebrating it as a goodbye to their late family members.
- Sindur Jatra: fiery celebration of vermillion powder
Sindur Jatra is celebrated annually in the month of Chaitra (March/April). The festival is dedicated to goddess Bhadrakali, the protector of the city. It starts in the sacred Taumadhi Square with the erection of a large wooden pole called Lingo decorated with a vibrant prayer flag. During late evening, the crowds start to light torches and throw vermillion powder among themself. The streets are filled with Kaleidoscope of colors, music, and dance. It is a festival that is full of joyful chaos and a spirited atmosphere.
Pottery work
Bhaktapur is famous for its pottery craftsmanship. You can witness this ancient form of art in Pottery Square. Potters are very skilled and have been doing it excellently. They shape clay with their own hands and traditional wheels while creating stunning pots, vases, and decorative items. You can also try making pottery under the guidance of a pottery master.
Explore the ponds
- Kamal Pokhari
Kamal Pokhari is one of the most popular destinations for both locals as well as foreigners. The locals bring their children who couldn't speak here and pray to Lord Ganesh to bless them with speaking abilities. There is a small temple located right next to the Kamalpokhari. The historic pond is believed to be of the Lichhavi period. It is a perfect destination to hang with your friends in the serendipity of nature.
- Siddha Pokhari
Siddha Pokhari is a man-made pond which is also known as Ta-Pukhu that lies near the main gate of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It is one of the ancient ponds that was built in the 15th century. It is larger than Kamal Pokhari and one can feed fish in the pond. There are plenty of small shops nearby where you can buy snacks and eat while you enjoy the beauty of the pond.
- Guhya Pokhari
Guhya Pokhari is located near Siddha Pokhari and is small in size. You can enjoy your free time visiting this pond. It is the perfect place to hang out with your friend and talk about the day to day life.
Explore Museum
- The National Art Gallery
The National Art Gallery is a cultural jewel that lies in the courtyard of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The museum displays traditional thanka paintings, sculptures, wood carvings, and metalwork. It showcases ancient religious art, contemporary masterpieces, the narrative of the artistic evolution of Nepal, and so on. The visitors surely enjoy witnessing these local craftsmanship.
- The Brass and Bronze Museum
The Brass and Bronze Museum stands near the popular Nyatapola temple. It offers the ancient technique of metal casting with magnificent artifacts made from brass and bronze. It displays the history of the metalwork of the Bhaktapur district, deities, enriches culture and economy.
- The woodcarving museum
The woodcarving museum is located near the 55 Window Palace. There are displays of a variety of wooden crafts from the ancient period to recently formed.
Buying Souvenirs and Handicraft
There are plenty of souvenir shops in Bhaktapur. You can buy an iconic "Bhadgaule Topi" also known as Kalo Topi. This topic is a symbol of national pride and is worn by locals at the time of festivals, weddings, and cultural events. There are handicraft shops where you can buy bells, vajra, stone sculpture, metal utensils, paubha painting, ceramics, Handmade Paper, hand-knitwear, filigree, and Vajra products.
