15 days
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Kathmandu Valley · UNESCO World Heritage
Bhaktapur is the most complete of the Kathmandu Valley's three old royal cities. Its centre is largely free of traffic, and its brick lanes connect a series of squares filled with pagoda temples, carved windows and workshops where potters and woodcarvers still work.
The city lies about 13 kilometres east of Kathmandu. Give it at least half a day, or better still stay overnight to see the squares in the quiet of early morning and evening.
What to see
- Durbar Square. The former royal square, with the 55 Window Palace, the gilded Golden Gate and a cluster of stone and pagoda temples.
- Taumadhi Square and Nyatapola. Nyatapola, built in 1702, is the tallest pagoda temple in Nepal at five storeys, with pairs of guardian figures lining its steps. It came through the 2015 earthquake largely intact.
- Pottery Square. Rows of clay pots dry in the sun while potters work their wheels. A good place to watch, and to buy small pieces to take home.
- Dattatreya Square. The oldest part of the city, known for its woodcarving workshops and the famous Peacock Window.
Food and festivals
Try juju dhau, Bhaktapur's rich, sweet curd served in clay bowls, sold in small shops around the squares.
Bisket Jatra, held around Nepali New Year in April, is the city's biggest festival, with huge chariots pulled through the streets. Book accommodation well ahead if you plan to visit then.
Tips for your visit
- Keep your ticket with you, as it is checked at several points around the old city.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the brick lanes are uneven and the best parts are explored on foot.
- Changu Narayan, another World Heritage temple, is a short drive or a pleasant walk away and pairs well with Bhaktapur.
Multi-day tours that visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Every tour here includes Bhaktapur Durbar Square in its itinerary. Best rated first.
15 days
5 days
10 days
10 days
17 days
3 daysCombine it with
Changu Narayan
UNESCOA hilltop temple to Vishnu above Bhaktapur, believed to be the oldest in the valley, with remarkable stone and wood carvings.
Visitor guide →Patan Durbar Square
UNESCOThe royal square of Lalitpur, packed with fine Newar temples and home to the Patan Museum, one of the best museums in South Asia.
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Bhaktapur Durbar Square: questions
How much is the entry fee for Bhaktapur?
Foreign visitors pay NPR 1,800 for a city ticket, which covers Durbar Square and the surrounding old town. Fees change from time to time, so check at the ticket office.
Is Bhaktapur worth an overnight stay?
Yes. Day visitors leave by late afternoon, and staying overnight lets you see the squares at their quietest in the evening and early morning.
How do I get from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur?
A taxi from Thamel takes around 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Most multi-day Nepal tours include a guided visit with transport.
Was Bhaktapur damaged in the 2015 earthquake?
Several buildings were damaged or destroyed, and some have since been rebuilt. Nyatapola Temple survived largely intact, and the old city remains one of the finest in Nepal.