Bhaktapur Durbar square in Nepal
Bhaktapur
**Bhaktapur Durbar Square** is one of the three historic royal palace squares in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the ancient city of **Bhaktapur** (also known as **Bhadgaon** or **Khwopa** in the local Newari language), it is a stunning example of traditional Newari architecture and Nepalese craftsmanship.
### **Key Attractions in Bhaktapur Durbar Square:**
1. **55-Window Palace (Pachpanna Jhyale Durbar)**
- Built by King **Yaksha Malla** in the 15th century and later expanded by **Bhupatindra Malla** (17th century).
- Famous for its intricately carved wooden windows.
2. **Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka)**
- A masterpiece of repoussé metalwork, leading to the **Taleju Temple**.
- Features the goddess **Taleju Bhawani** and other deities.
3. **Taleju Temple**
- A towering temple dedicated to the royal deity **Taleju Bhawani**, accessible only during the **Dashain festival**.
4. **Vatsala Temple**
- A stone temple dedicated to **Goddess Vatsala**, known for its **Bell of Barking Dogs**.
5. **Nyatapola Temple**
- Located in **Taumadhi Square** (a short walk from Durbar Square).
- A five-story pagoda-style temple, the tallest in Nepal, dedicated to **Siddhi Lakshmi**.
6. **Bhairavnath Temple**
- Next to Nyatapola, this temple is dedicated to **Lord Bhairav** (the fierce form of Shiva).
7. **Dattatreya Temple**
- One of the oldest temples in Bhaktapur, believed to be built from a single tree.
8. **Pottery Square (Talako)**
- A lively area where artisans create traditional clay pots using ancient techniques.
### **Visiting Information:**
- **Entry Fee:**
- **Foreigners:** NPR 1,500 (approx. $12-15)
- **SAARC Nationals:** NPR 500
- **Nepali Citizens:** Free or minimal charge
- **Best Time to Visit:** Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- **Nearby Attractions:**
- **Changu Narayan Temple** (another UNESCO site)
- **Thimi** (traditional pottery town)
### **Cultural Significance:**
- Bhaktapur is known for its preserved medieval culture, festivals like **Bisket Jatra** (New Year celebrations), and traditional **Juju Dhau** (king curd).
- The city is less commercialized than Kathmandu or Patan, offering a more authentic experience.
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