I thought Kathmandu was beautiful, until I visited Bhaktapur...

"Even if the whole of Nepal disappears, as long as Bhaktapur remains, it's worth flying halfway around the world to see it."

Only after arriving in Bhaktapur did I truly understand the weight of British traveler Powell's words. From night to dawn, I witnessed the liveliness and tranquility of this ancient city. Coinciding with a local festival, residents were busy making straw effigies to burn in the evening celebrations. Carrying my camera, friendly locals would greet me and even join in for photos. Nepal gave me a sense of "acceptance" - perhaps accustomed to tourists, people showed no obvious distinction, treating you like a distant relative visiting, ready to chat at any moment...

Bhaktapur has four main squares, all within walking distance. The entire old city feels like an open-air museum.

📍Durbar Square
Bhaktapur's largest square and former site of the Malla Kingdom palace. The 55 sandalwood carved windows are exquisite, while the Batsala Devi Temple's gray granite structure, flanked by stone guardian beasts, creates a solemn atmosphere. Sitting on the square steps at sunset, watching children play on the stone paths, time seems to slow down...
📸 Best photo spot at Khwapa Chhen - the rooftop view is stunning~

📍Taumadhi Square
Located in Bhaktapur's old quarter, once one of the busiest areas. The Nyatapola Temple, Nepal's tallest Hindu temple at 30m/5 stories, features guardian statues from wrestlers to elephants ascending its base.
📸 Great photo spot at Himalayan Java Coffee - enjoy street views with your brew👀

📍Pottery Square
The birthplace of Nepal's traditional pottery craft. Watch artisans shape clay on spinning wheels throughout the square.

📍Tachupal Square (Dattatreya Square)
Bhaktapur's original central square with 700 years of history. The Dattatreya Temple showcases unique architecture. Nearby alleys hide the world-famous Peacock Window - a 15th-century masterpiece of Nepali woodcarving commissioned by the king, featuring an intricately carved peacock spreading its tail.
📸 Photo spot at De Temple Cafe's second floor~

🚗 About 1hr taxi ride from Kathmandu's Thamel (~800 NPR)
🎫 500 NPR for Chinese passport holders (7-day validity)
🍯 Must try the local "King Curd" Juju Dhau - incredibly delicious😋
🍴 Dinner at The Garuda Bar offers excellent views👀