Situated at an altitude of 1,401 m, Bhaktapur covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur or "the Cityof Devotees" still retains the medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated with myriad wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulers continue to be reflected at the Durbar Square. Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. The city lies about 14 km east of Kathmandu. The ancient city of Patan, lying 5 km southeast of Kathmandu, is known as the city of fine arts. The city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. The diversity of the medieval culture that allowed both Hinduism and Buddhism to flourish has left a rich legacy of impressive sightseeing in this city for today's visitors.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The Golden Gate is the entrance to the main courtyard of the Palace of 55 Windows. Built by King Ranjit Malla, the Gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world. This gate is embellished with deities and monsters with marvelous intricacy. The le Palace of 55 Windows was built in the 17th century.Among the brick walls in their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 Windows.
This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving. The stone temple of Batsala Devi which is also located in the Durbar Square is full of intricate carvings. This temple also sets a beautlful example of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. There is a bronze bell on the , terrace of the temple which is also known as the "Bell of Barking Dogs". This colossal bell, placed in 1737 AD, was rung to signal curfew during those days. Superior artistry of the Golden Gate at Bhaktapur The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like the Lion Gate, the Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery, the Batsala temple, etc. A magnificent statue of King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace of the many windows.
Nyatapola Temple
This five-storey pagoda was built in 1702 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla. It stands on a five-terraced platform. On each of the terraces squat a pair of figures. This is one of the tallest pagodas and is famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.
The National Art Gallery
Contains ancient and medieval paintings belonging to Hindu and Buddhist schools depicting Tantrism
of various periods and descriptions.
Bhairavnath Temple
Located inside, Kwabadehal, this three storey golden pagoda of Lokeshwor (Lord Buddha) was built in the twelfth century by King Bhaskar Verma. Inside the upper storey of the pagoda, are the gold- en image of Lord Buddha and a large prayer wheel.
Dattatraya Temple
Built in 1427 A.D., this temple is said to have been built from the trunk of a single tree. Near this temple is a monastery with exquisitely carved peacock window.
Surya Vinayak
Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhadgaon, the temple of Ganesh is placed in a sylvan setting to catch the first rays of the rising sun. It is a good picnic spot flanked by many attractive landscapes.
