26/08/2013
Bhaktapur Durbar Square – is like entering into a forbidden city full of amazing examples of a bygone era’s architecture.
If you felt like the commotion in the streets and the everyday chaos obstruct a clear view of the monuments of yesteryear in the other two districts, then Bhaktapur will delight you. The folks in Bhaktapur have made sure that areas such as the Bhaktapur Durbar Square are cordoned off from locals trying to open a fast food stand or a kiosk selling kitsch. The effect is of having stumbled into a forbidden city with plenty to see, do and eat!
The district is home to an amazing woodcarving tradition and the national Bhadgaule topi. The most famous site here in without a doubt the charming Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The palace with 55 windows, the stone temple of Batsala Devi, innumerable other temples, architectural showpieces like the Lion Gate and the statue of king Bhupatindra Malla are all reminders of the artistic heritage of the place. Bhaktapur Durbar square was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monuments List in 1979.
Other interesting sites to visit:
The National Art Gallery is popular for its collection of ancient and medieval paintings from the Hindu and Buddhist schools. The awesome Nyatapola Temple is a five- storied pagoda built in 1702 AD by King Bhupatindra Malla and is one of the tallest pagodas here. The Bhairavnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav- the god of terror (!) and is famous for its artistic splendor. The temple dates back to 1718 AD. Nearby is Surya Vinayak, an enchanting temple site of Lord Ganesha situated amidst scenic smaller towns. Changu Narayan is the oldest pagoda temple situated at the end of the long ridge built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD. Visitors might also want take a walk in Thimi, a farming town famous for earthen pots, home spun cotton and artistic masks.
While in Bhaktapur, grab a bite at the centrally located Cafe Natapola and take in the sights as you dig into some local cuisine. Don’t forget to get some Juju Dhhau (curd fit for kings), a local favorite and one of the things Bhaktapur is famous for.
Not to miss: Bhaktapur Durbar Square – is like entering into a forbidden city full of amazing examples of a bygone era’s architecture; Nyatapola temple; the pottery culture in nearby Thimi; the milk curd popular in the area.
Photo Courtesy: Rocky Prajapati
