Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, is a popular tourist destination. Every corner of Kathmandu offers a unique cultural heritage. Among the many iconic and popular destinations are the Durbar Squares, which are ancient palace complexes that offer a glimpse into Nepal’s fascinating history.
However, beyond the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu lies the charming city of Bhaktapur. Tourists prefer visiting this place on day trips. But if you ask me, staying a night in Bhaktapur would offer a more immersive experience of the city’s vibrant culture, local traditions, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Bhaktapur is a hub of festivals and celebrations. Staying here means you’ll run into one of the many unique customs that offer a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. From the colorful Bisket Jatra to the grand Gai Jatra, the city’s festivals are an unforgettable experience.
Bhaktapur also offers a plethora of offbeat experiences, including pottery making, woodcarving, and traditional weaving. You can spend hours running around its winding alleys, sampling delicious street food, and chatting with friendly locals and it will still not be enough.
Bhaktapur is very different than many of the tourist destinations in Kathmandu. Being away from the main city makes it perfect to experience when you are staying here and in this Bhaktapur travel blog, I will tell you the reason why.
2015 Earthquake and Restoration of Bhaktapur
A significant portion of Bhaktapur was destroyed during the earthquake of 2015. On my last visit, in the year 2018, parts of many temples and structures were still under restoration. The support came from around the world while Nepal government was also trying to make sure that they maintained the ancient architecture.
I revisited Bhaktapur this year in 2023. The restoration work is almost complete. The temples that were supported by logs and pillars were standing freely now. Bhaktapur looked gorgeous.
This time, I had plans to spend a few days in Bhaktapur because of two festivals in the vicinity. It was the best decision I took and the trip was worth it.
Bhaktapur – The City of Devotees
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name “Bhaktapur” translates to “City of Devotees.” It is believed to have been founded in the 12th century by King Ananda Malla. It was known for its skilled craftsmen, who created exquisite pottery, wood carvings, and weaving. The city flourished under the Malla dynasty and reached its peak during the 15th century.
Today Bhaktapur is the capital of Newari culture and people come here to experience this up-close and personal.
How to reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square from Kathmandu?
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located just 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu. The most convenient way to reach Bhaktapur is by taking a taxi or private car. The taxis charge close to 1000 Nepalese rupee and take around 30-45 minutes depending on the traffic. The distance from the Kathmandu airport to Bhaktapur is even shorter, making it a great option to go directly here instead of crowded main city.
If you are staying near Thamel, I recommend taking a local bus from Ratna Park. It’s just a 1-kilometer walk from Thamel. The bus ride takes around an hour and costs only a few Nepalese Rupees. There are direct buses also available from Pashupatinath Temple area. The bus drops you off at the entrance of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and from there, it’s just a short walk to explore the city’s fascinating history and culture.
Tickets for Bhaktapur Durbar Square
To enter Bhaktapur Durbar Square, visitors are required to purchase a ticket. The ticket cost varies for different categories of visitors, including foreigners, SAARC nationals, and locals. The ticket allows visitors to explore the ancient temples, palaces, and monuments within the square.
As I was staying in Bhaktapur, it became easy for me to explore around as I only had to buy the ticket on the day of my arrival. The ticket is valid for multiple entries, so visitors can explore the square at their own pace over several days.
The Famous Ju Ju Dhau of Bhaktapur
Ju Ju Dhau, also known as “King Curd,” is a famous sweet yogurt that originated in Bhaktapur. This delicious yogurt is made by fermenting buffalo milk in clay pots. It has a creamy texture and unique taste that brings visitors from far away places to Bhaktapur.
Legend has it that Ju Ju Dhau was first created for a king’s visit to Bhaktapur. It was so delicious that it became a staple of the city’s culinary heritage. You can sample this sweet treat from local shops and street vendors throughout Bhaktapur. You’ll also find dedicated Ju Ju Dhau stores that offer different varieties of this famous Bhaktapur delicacy.
Must see Attractions of Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the heart of Bhaktapur’s historical heritage. It features a cluster of ancient temples, palaces, and monuments. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Newari culture. While people come here for a day trip, I personally find spending evenings here the perfect way to unwind. The peaceful and relaxing environment is something that you won’t find anywhere else in Kathmandu. Just pick a set of staircases and enjoy the world pass by.
Taumadhi Square
Taumadhi Square is home to the iconic Nyatapola Temple, which is one of the tallest temples in Nepal. This stunning temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, and its intricate carvings and colorful facade make it a popular spot for photographers.
Dattatraya Square
Dattatraya Square is another ancient square, featuring a number of historic temples and shrines. This square is especially worth visiting if you’re lucky enough to witness a religious ceremony or festival. These festivals are very small and personal and mostly involve taking a god’s statue around the square before reestablishing it in the temple.
Pottery Square
Pottery Square offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional pottery-making techniques of the Newari people. Here, you can witness local artisans at work, creating everything from pots and plates to intricate clay sculptures. Pottery Square is a great spot for photographers, as the colorful displays and lively atmosphere make for great photo opportunities.
Madhyampur Thimi
Located just a short distance from Bhaktapur, Madhyapur Thimi is a charming Newari town. This town is famous for its pottery, traditional architecture, and local markets. You should come here to experience the daily life and culture of the Newari people. Madhyapur Thimi is a great destination for solo travelers or those interested in exploring the offbeat places in Kathmandu.
Why You Should Choose Staying at Bhaktapur over Kathmandu
I highly recommend staying in Bhaktapur during your visit to Kathmandu, for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the authentic Newari culture. Staying in Bhaktapur allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, including trying the delicious local food and witnessing traditional festivals and ceremonies.
Additionally, Bhaktapur is a great base for exploring nearby destinations, such as Nagarkot. Finally, the city itself is too big to experience on a day trip, so staying overnight allows you to fully explore and appreciate everything that Bhaktapur has to offer.
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