Bhaktapur, which means “City of Rice” or “City of Devotees” in Nepali, is the best-preserved medieval heritage among the three ancient cities of the Kathmandu Valley. Once the royal capital of the Malla dynasty in the 15th century, this “living heritage” is renowned for its red-brick architecture, intricate wood carvings, and pottery craftsmanship. It is hailed as an “open-air gallery of Newar architectural art”.

Time flows with every turn of the potter’s wheel, yet Bhaktapur remains unchanged: the smile of an old woman behind a carved window frame, the warmth of clay in a potter’s hands, the lengthening shadows of temples cast by the setting sun. Together, they compose an ancient hymn.

Visit Bhaktapur, and in the time it takes to savor a bowl of yogurt, you’ll come to understand the passage of ages.

 

1. Weather

Bhaktapur has a warm and humid climate, with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. It experiences neither extreme heat nor severe cold, making it comfortable for visitors year-round.

 

2. Popular Attractions

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: As the heart of the city, this square is home to numerous exquisite buildings. Among them, the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows stands out, which is renowned for its 55 intricately carved wooden windows that showcase the superb craftsmanship of Nepalese artisans. The square also features the Vishnu Temple, Shiva Temple, and other remarkable examples of ancient Nepalese architecture.

Golden Gate: It is the main entrance to the old royal palace and one of Bhaktapur’s most iconic landmarks. It also serves as the entryway to view the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows.

Pottery Square: Tucked beneath the red walls of Durbar Square lies a vibrant area known as Pottery Square, filled with all kinds of pottery. With a pottery-making history that spans nearly a thousand years, this square is where the entire crafting process—kneading the clay, shaping, and drying—is done right in the open. If you wish, you can even try your hand at making your own piece and experience the timeless artistic charm of this medieval square.

Nyatapola Temple: Standing at 30 meters tall, Nyatapola Temple is the tallest Hindu temple in Nepal and is dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. It is located in Taumadhi Square, the second-largest square in Bhaktapur. The temple has five distinct tiers, which taper as they ascend, hence its nickname “Five-Story Pagoda”. The base of the temple also consists of five platforms. A central staircase leads up to the temple, flanked on each platform by pairs of massive stone guardians: the bottom platform features two wrestlers, followed by elephants, lions, griffins (lion-bodied, eagle-headed creatures), and finally two goddesses at the top. The temple is constructed from brick and wood, featuring exquisitely detailed wood carvings and grand stone sculptures—a rare and impressive combination of both wood and stone craftsmanship.

Peacock Window: Renowned worldwide for its intricate craftsmanship, Nepal’s woodcarving art finds its finest expression in the “Peacock Window”—a hidden masterpiece tucked away in a narrow alley. Considered the pinnacle of Nepali woodcarving, this iconic piece is located on the east wall of the Woodcarving Museum in Bhaktapur. Carved in the 15th century, the dark wooden window features a delicately open-worked peacock with its tail fully fanned at the center. The carving is exquisite and the composition is brilliantly designed, surrounded by depictions of deities, doves, and finely detailed floral motifs—all of which are breathtakingly beautiful.

Taumadhi Street Old Town Square: As the earliest central square in Bhaktapur and the oldest part of the city, this historic plaza is surrounded by medieval temples and traditional houses, preserving the authentic atmosphere of ancient Bhaktapur.

 

3. Cuisine

Bhaktapur’s specialty yogurt, known as “juju-dhau,” is referred to as the “King of Yogurts”. According to legend, during the distant Malla Dynasty in Nepal, the king ordered the people of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur to present their homemade yogurt. The king, with his golden words, declared Bhaktapur’s yogurt as the best, thus earning it the title of the “King of Yogurts”. This yogurt is made strictly following ancient methods, offering a delicious, rich, and creamy taste.

 

 

4. Shopping

Durbar Square: The area around Durbar Square has many shops where you can purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs unique to the region.

Pottery Square: It is a hub for pottery products, where you can find a wide variety of traditional Nepalese pottery. Visitors can also try making or customizing their own unique pottery items.

 

5. Transportation Guide

Walking: The ancient city is crowded, with cobblestone streets and narrow alleys that only allow for walking. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring on foot.

Rickshaw: It is a great option for carrying luggage or short-distance transportation. Some rickshaw drivers also double as guides, sharing interesting stories and secrets of the ancient city.

 

6. Accommodation Recommendations

Near Durbar Square: This area is close to the city’s main attractions, offering a convenient location with great views. Some accommodations are renovated from classical medieval buildings, providing a “museum-like” experience during your stay.

Near Pottery Square: Quieter than the main buildings around Durbar Square, some accommodations offer a terrace view where you can observe pottery craftsmen at work in the square below.