Bhaktapur & Patan Durbar Square Tour

TRIP OVERVIEW

Trip Facts

Destination	Nepal
Activity	Day Tours in Nepal
Duration	1 Day
Group size	min 2 people
Best Season	Best For All Seasion
Trip Code	GAT-31
Activity Per Day	-
Grade	Easy

Highlights of Bhaktapur & Patan Durbar Square Tour

• Explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Square
• Marvel at the Nyatapola Temple, the tallest five-story pagoda in Nepal
• Admire the intricate wood and metalwork of the 55-Window Palace and Golden Gate
• Taste the legendary "Juju Dhau," Bhaktapur’s famous "King of Yogurt."
• Discover the stone-carved masterpiece of the 17th-century Krishna Mandir
• Witness traditional artisans spinning clay at the historic Pottery Square
• Savor an authentic Newari lunch with local delicacies in a historic courtyard
• Visit Changu Narayan, the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley (Optional)
• Enjoy a seamless journey with private transfers in a comfortable vehicle

Explore the architectural wonders of the Kathmandu Valley with the Bhaktapur & Patan Durbar Square Tour. Wander through the ancient courtyards of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, home to the iconic Nyatapola Temple and the historic 55-Window Palace. Continue to Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its exquisite temples, royal palace, and intricate craftsmanship. Taste the famous Juju Dhau and enjoy authentic Newari cuisine while immersing yourself in centuries-old art, architecture, and traditions.

The Bhaktapur & Patan Durbar Square Tour is a carefully designed cultural day trip that unveils the timeless heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Starting from Kathmandu, the journey takes you first to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, famously known as the “City of Devotees.” Here, the beautifully preserved Bhaktapur Durbar Square showcases a remarkable collection of palaces, pagoda-style temples, and intricate wood carvings that reflect the artistic brilliance of the Malla dynasty.

After exploring Bhaktapur, the tour continues toward Patan, one of the oldest Buddhist cities in the region and a true center of fine arts. The stunning Patan Durbar Square offers an impressive blend of royal palaces, ancient courtyards, and sacred temples that highlight centuries of Newari craftsmanship.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking history, culture, and architecture in a single day. With comfortable private transport and an insightful exploration of UNESCO-listed heritage sites, this tour provides a deeper understanding of Nepal’s living traditions and rich cultural identity.

Major Monuments to Visit in Bhaktapur Durbar Square

1. 55-Window Palace

Built during the 15th century and remodeled in the 17th century, this palace is the crowning jewel of Newari woodcarving. The intricate balcony of fifty-five windows serves as a testament to the artistic excellence of the Malla era. It was once the royal seat of the kingdom and remains one of the most significant heritage structures in the Kathmandu Valley. 55 window palace is best for its fascinating sequenced and sacred wall paintings. Thus, you can expect one of the best wood carvings, paintings, and impressive architecture over there. 55 window palace holds back history from about 1427 AD before King Bhupatindra Malla remodelled it in the 17th century.

2. Nyatapola Temple

Dominating the skyline of Taumadhi Square, this five-story pagoda is the tallest temple in Nepal. Built in 1702 AD, it is dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi and is famous for its incredible structural stability, having survived multiple major earthquakes. The massive stone stairway is flanked by legendary guardians, including wrestlers, elephants, and griffins.

3. The Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka)

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful specimens of metalwork in the world, the Golden Gate serves as the entrance to the Taleju Temple complex. Commissioned by King Ranjit Malla, this gilded masterpiece features a magnificent finial of the goddess Kali and the mythical Garuda. Its shimmering brass details are a highlight for any art enthusiast.

4. Bhairavnath Temple

Dedicated to the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, this three-story rectangular temple stands adjacent to the Nyatapola. Originally a single-story structure, it was later expanded to its current form. The temple is a focal point during the Bisket Jatra festival and is known for its unique architectural style and powerful religious significance.

5. Dattatreya Temple

Located in the older Dattatreya Square, this temple is said to have been built from the trunk of a single tree in 1427 AD. It is dedicated to the three-headed deity representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple is famous for its heavy woodcarvings and is surrounded by ancient "Maths" (monasteries) that showcase medieval living quarters.

6. The Peacock Window

Tucked away in a narrow alley near Dattatreya Square, the Peacock Window is often called the "Mona Lisa of Nepal." Carved in the 15th century, this masterpiece of woodcraft adorns the wall of a former priest's house. The level of detail in the bird's feathers and the surrounding floral patterns represents the peak of Newari craftsmanship.

7. Siddha Pokhari

Located just outside the main palace gates, this large rectangular water tank dates back to the reign of King Yaksha Malla. It is one of the oldest and most atmospheric ponds in the city, surrounded by stone statues of various Hindu and Buddhist deities. It offers a peaceful retreat where locals gather to feed the fish and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

Major Monuments to Visit in Patan Durbar Square

1. Krishna Mandir

This 17th-century masterpiece is the most important temple in Patan and is built entirely of stone. Unlike the wooden pagodas nearby, it follows the Shikhara style of architecture. The temple’s three levels feature intricate stone friezes that depict epic scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, centered around the life of Lord Krishna.

2. Patan Museum (Old Royal Palace)

Housed within the restored residential courtyards of the Malla kings, this museum is recognized as one of the finest in South Asia. The building itself is an architectural treasure, featuring the Keshav Narayan Chowk. Inside, you can explore a world-class collection of bronze statues, traditional religious objects, and historical tantric manuscripts.

3. Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar)

Located a short walk from the main square, this Buddhist monastery is famous for its gilded facade and three tiers of golden roofs. Known locally as Kwa Bahal, the courtyard is filled with ornate bronze statues, prayer wheels, and intricate carvings. It remains one of the most active and beautiful "Vihars" in the city today.

4. Mul Chowk

This is the central and oldest courtyard of the Patan Royal Palace. It serves as the heart of the palace complex and is dedicated to the goddess Taleju Bhawani. The courtyard is flanked by beautifully carved wooden doorways and two stunning bronze statues of the river goddesses Ganga and Jamuna, standing on their respective mythical mounts.

5. Taleju Bell

The massive bronze bell, suspended between two sturdy stone pillars, was traditionally used by the public to signal the King in times of grievance or to announce royal decrees. It remains a powerful symbol of the justice system of the medieval Malla period and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the square.

6. Mahaboudha Temple

Often called the "Temple of a Thousand Buddhas," this 16th-century terracotta masterpiece is located just outside the main square. Every single brick used in the construction of this Shikhara-style temple bears an engraved image of Lord Buddha. It is a remarkable example of Newari tile and terracotta craftsmanship.

7. Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ornate two-story pagoda is famous for its stone elephant guardians at the entrance and its elaborate woodcarvings. Inside the temple sits a large stone Lingam. The pillars and struts of the temple are decorated with erotic carvings and depictions of various deities, characteristic of the medieval architectural style.

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