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Bhaktapur, located 14 kilometers east of Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, is one of the three major cities in the Kathmandu Valley and the birthplace of Nepal's medieval architecture and art. Bhaktapur's ancient city is dominated by brick red, with its rustic red bricks, deep maroon intricate wood carvings, and densely packed temples and brick and stone pagodas forming its unique architectural style.
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhaktapur, means "City of Rice" or "City of the Devout" in Nepali. As the former capital of Nepal, Bhaktapur boasts a considerable collection of ancient buildings, centered around the three major squares of Durbar Square, Taumati Square, and Tachupa Square, and their surrounding areas. Shrines, temples, pagodas, and wells can be found everywhere. The centuries-old pottery craft is also a popular spot, where you can witness pottery being made and dried, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Best in October-November
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the largest and quietest of the three famous Durbar Squares. Besides the countless temples, the most attractive thing about this place is the rich atmosphere of local life. There is a market here in the morning, which usually starts around 6:00.
Tickets
The square is open to the public free of charge, but foreign tourists entering Bhaktapur must purchase a ticket, which costs 750 rupees per person.
Tickets for tourists holding Chinese passports are 500 rupees and can enter and exit multiple times.
Opening hours
Open all day, the ticket office of Bhaktapur Old Town is open from 7:00 to 19:00
Nagarkot
This small spot is known as the "Viewing Platform of the Himalayas" because it offers the widest and best views of the Himalayas in the Kathmandu Valley. From here, you can admire the panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas, which hang like a jade belt across the sky. If visibility is good, you can even see Mount Everest, the world's highest peak.
Free; all day
Nyatapola Temple
Located in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, this is Nepal's tallest Hindu temple. Built in 1702, the temple is dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. The steps of the Nyatapola Temple are flanked by guardian figures of the goddess, an eagle, an elephant, a lion, and a strongman, with the lower the statue, the greater the power. The temple boasts 108 slanted wooden pillars, each carved with various incarnations of the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi.
Free; all day
Bhaktapur is an ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley, known for preserving medieval art, architecture, and culture. It was a major center for Newar civilization and has significant temples, palaces, and squares that reflect Nepalese heritage.
Located about 13 km east of Kathmandu city. Accessible via local buses, taxis, or private cars from Kathmandu. Walking is feasible within the city due to its compact layout.
Advance booking is generally not required; for guided tours, a few days’ notice may help ensure availability.
1–2 full days to explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, surrounding temples, squares, and local markets.
Guided tours are available in English and other major languages; audio guides are limited but may be offered at some heritage sites.
Night visits are limited; some festivals or religious events may offer evening activities. Special guided tours can be arranged on request.
Crowds are higher on weekends and holidays; weekdays and early mornings are less busy.
Basic facilities including restrooms, small eateries, water, rest areas, and souvenir shops are available near main squares.
Most areas are walkable, but some temples have stairs and uneven ground which may limit accessibility for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash in Nepalese Rupees is recommended; cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but smaller shops and markets prefer cash.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available; halal options are also offered at select restaurants.
Souvenirs include pottery, traditional masks, thangkas, handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and local crafts.
