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Visit the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, explore the Taleju Temple, and admire the intricately carved woodwork of the many temples. The Kathmandu Durbar Square is a hub of history, culture, and vibrant local life, perfect for photography and experiencing the traditional architecture of Nepal.
Kathmandu's Durbar Square is located in the old city, in front of the old Royal Palace. It is Kathmandu's most prominent attraction, showcasing Nepal's classical architecture from the 16th to 19th centuries. The square boasts over 50 temples and palaces, each retaining its original architectural style and elegance from the Middle Ages. The square and its surrounding buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The entire square is composed of three scattered squares. To the south is the empty Basantapur Square, which used to be the royal elephant farm and is now a gathering place for various souvenir vendors.
To the west is the main area of Durbar Square, where you can visit various ancient temples.
To the northeast is the sub-area of Durbar Square, where the entrance to the former royal palace is located.
The open area extending to the northeast is called Makhan Street. It used to be the main traffic artery in Kathmandu and has now become a very famous pedestrian street.
September to November is the best time to travel
1-3 hours
1000 rupees; with your passport and a photo, you can go to the office on the south side of the square to get a free multiple-entry Visitor Pass
6:00-19:00
Kathmandu Durbar Square was the royal palace complex of the Malla kings. It is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley and features a blend of Hindu and Buddhist temples, palaces, and courtyards. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represents the cultural and architectural grandeur of Nepal.
Located in the heart of Kathmandu, you can reach Kathmandu Durbar Square by walking, taxi, or bus. It is easily accessible from most areas of Kathmandu.
The square is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the square's beauty in good lighting.
The entrance fee for foreign visitors is NPR 1,000. Tickets can be bought at the entrance gate of the Durbar Square. There is no online ticketing system available.
No, tickets are available on-site and do not need to be booked in advance.
You will need about 2 to 3 hours to explore the main sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, including the temples, palaces, and museums. If you wish to explore in more detail, consider spending half a day.
The must-see highlights include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Taleju Temple, Kumari Ghar (residence of the living goddess), and the Kathmandu Durbar Museum. The intricately carved woodwork and architectural details are also a major attraction.
Guided tours are available in English and other languages. Audio guides can also be rented for a more informative experience.
The best photography spots include the view of the square from the top of the temples and palaces, particularly the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and the vibrant activity around the square itself. The intricate carvings and local life offer great photographic opportunities.
Start at the entrance near the Kumari Ghar, then visit the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, followed by Taleju Temple and the Kathmandu Durbar Museum. Wander around the square and explore smaller temples and shrines as you go. Finish with a walk through the surrounding streets to enjoy the local culture.
There are no night visits or light shows at Kathmandu Durbar Square. However, the square is beautifully lit in the evenings, making it a good time for photography.
The square can be quite crowded during midday, especially on weekends. The least crowded times are in the early morning on weekdays, right after opening hours.
There are public toilets around the square. Many local cafes and restaurants offer food and drinks. You will find shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and other local items within and around the square.
The area is not fully accessible for wheelchair users due to uneven cobblestones and stairs, but it is suitable for elderly and children, though they may need assistance navigating certain areas.
Cash is needed for the entrance fee and most purchases. Mobile payments and credit cards are not widely accepted, although larger establishments may accept them.
Nearby cafes and restaurants include "The Garden of Dreams Café" and "Bhojan Griha," both offering a mix of Nepali and international cuisines. There are also many smaller eateries around the square.
Yes, many local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan food options, with dishes like momos, dal bhat, and vegetable curries. Halal food options are also available in the area.
Nearby accommodations include "Hotel Manang," "Kathmandu Guest House," and "Hotel Yak & Yeti." There are also budget guesthouses in the Thamel area, which is a short walk from the square.
Nearby attractions include Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. These are all within a 30-minute drive from Kathmandu Durbar Square and can be easily combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the square selling handcrafted items such as wooden carvings, thangka paintings, jewelry, and prayer flags. You can also find textiles like shawls and scarves.
To continue your trip, taxis are the best option. Public buses and private vehicles are also available, and you can easily arrange transport to nearby attractions from Kathmandu Durbar Square.
