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Visit the temples and palaces in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, such as Vatsala Temple and the 55-Window Palace. Explore the ancient architecture, admire the wood carvings, and visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Museum. Take time to wander around the vibrant market square and try traditional Newari food.
Bhaktapur's largest square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is surrounded by various temples and pagodas, including the palace of the Malla dynasty and many unique shrines, temples, pagodas, and statues. It is known as an "open-air museum."
This stone Hindu temple is beautifully shaped and intricately carved, with a large bronze bell hanging outside. The Golden Gate, as its name suggests, is a magnificent golden gate that stands out among the many red buildings.
To the southeast stands the 30-meter-high Nyatapola Temple (a five-story pagoda), a landmark building on the square. Climb its steep steps and sit to overlook the entire square. It is hailed as "the essence and treasure house of medieval Nepalese art."
The whole year is suitable for travel, but October to December is the golden season, with no rain during the dry season and clear skies every day.
1 hour
The ticket is 750 rupees, and only 500 rupees for those holding a Chinese passport, which allows multiple entries and exits.
Open all day, the ticket office of Bhaktapur Old Town is open from 7:00 to 19:00
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the three royal palaces in the Kathmandu Valley, dating back to the 12th century. It was the capital of the Malla Kingdom and is known for its well-preserved architecture and numerous Hindu and Buddhist monuments, including palaces, temples, and shrines.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the historic city of Bhaktapur, approximately 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu. You can reach it by taxi, private car, or public bus from Kathmandu. It is best explored on foot once you arrive.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon when the square is less crowded and the lighting is perfect for photography.
The entrance fee is NPR 1,500 for foreign tourists. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and there is no online booking option available.
No advance booking is required. You can purchase tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit.
You can explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. If you wish to visit museums or explore the surrounding areas, you may want to set aside more time.
The main highlights include the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, Taleju Temple, and the Bhaktapur Durbar Museum. Don't miss the intricately carved woodwork and the colorful local markets.
Guided tours are available in English, and audio guides may be rented at the entrance. Guides can provide rich historical context about the temples, palaces, and carvings within the square.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the 55-Window Palace and the Vatsala Temple. The square itself is a beautiful subject for photography, with its intricate architecture and bustling atmosphere. Sunrise and sunset offer excellent lighting.
Start by entering from the main entrance and exploring the 55-Window Palace. Visit the surrounding temples and shrines, then head to the Bhaktapur Durbar Museum. End with a stroll through the local market area, where you can buy traditional crafts and souvenirs.
There are no night visits or light shows at Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The square is best visited during the day when the temples and structures are fully visible.
The square can get busy, especially on weekends and during festivals. The least crowded times are in the early morning on weekdays or late afternoon after the main tourist crowds have left.
There are public toilets near the entrance. Several cafes and restaurants around the square offer food and drinks. Shops selling local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs are abundant in the square.
The area is somewhat challenging for visitors with mobility issues, due to uneven cobblestone streets and stairs leading to certain temples. However, elderly visitors and children can still enjoy the main square and nearby attractions.
Cash is needed for the entrance fee, purchases from local vendors, and for food. Credit cards are not widely accepted, although some larger shops or restaurants might accept them.
There are several restaurants and cafes near Bhaktapur Durbar Square offering both traditional Nepali dishes and international cuisine. Popular options include "Patan Durbar Square Café" and "The Local Cafe".
Yes, many of the local restaurants around Bhaktapur offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, including traditional Nepali vegetarian dishes such as momos and dal bhat.
Nearby accommodations include the heritage hotels in Bhaktapur, such as "Hotel Heritage" and "The Garden of Dreams." There are also several guesthouses and budget hotels within walking distance of the square.
Nearby attractions include the Changunarayan Temple, which is about a 20-minute drive away, and the medieval town of Panauti. These can be easily combined for a day trip from Bhaktapur.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops around the square selling traditional Nepali crafts, including handmade pottery, masks, wooden carvings, jewelry, and prayer flags.
To continue your trip, taxis and buses are the best options. Bhaktapur is well-connected to Kathmandu, and you can also find local buses heading to other parts of the Kathmandu Valley.
