Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Overview

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once home to the royal family of Bhaktapur. Locally known as Khwopa or the ancient Newa City, visitors can explore the entire complex of four linked squares: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Pottery Square and Dattatreya Square. It sits about 13 kilometres east of Kathmandu within the same valley, which makes it an easy half-day trip from the capital.

The entire square is a massive display of traditional Newari architecture. Every building is a work of art in itself, and visitors will enjoy exploring. The square was severely damaged in the 1934 and 2015 earthquakes that hit Nepal. Most of the ancient architecture suffered, and several buildings, statues, and structures were destroyed. Other buildings underwent some restoration, but visitors can still see the signs of the damage.

Architecture

Bhaktapur Durbar Square consists of four different squares namely, Pottery Square, Durbar Square, Dattatreya and Taumadhi Square. These squares comprised of buildings, temples, statues, etc. all belonging to the 18th century. The Royal Residence/ Palace is located at Durbar Square, which was initially situated at Dattatreya Square. The remaining ancient buildings are spread across the rest of the site. Here, one can see well-preserved 17th and 18th century Newari, traditional pagoda and shikhara style of architecture. There is extensive use of wood and stone that bear beautiful carvings depicting stories and mythical creatures of the time.

How To Reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the centre of the town and is accessible by the roadways. Buses are frequently available from Kathmandu which is located approximately 12.5 kilometres to the east of the attraction.