The former royal complex in the centre of the Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon) district is known as the Durbar Square in Bhaktapur. Consisting of a castle, courtyards, historic monuments and numerous temples, the whole complex was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 along with Durbar Square in Kathmandu and Durbar Square in Patan.

It is an ancient city built by the Malla (Newars) kings of Nepal. Formerly a kingdom of Newar, the main inhabitants of the region are Newars, therefore the architecture of the area signifies the ancient establishment of the greatest Newari culture and arts.

After Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur is the second most visited place in the entire Kathmandu Valley.

Inside Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Main Attractions

UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur Durbar Square

55 Windows Palace (Pachpanne Jhyale Durbar) -It is a former royal palace of the Malla kings. The interesting thing about this palace is the one with a total of 55 windows.
Golden Gate – The main gate, made entirely of gold.
Lion Gate – This magnificent Lion Gate is made by the craftsmen whose hands were cut by the envious king after giving finishing touches to them so that no more than many works could be produced again.
Mini-Pashupati Temple – Similar to Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, the Pashupati Mini Temple is a major attraction in Bhaktapur.
Nyatapola Temple – A 5-story temple, located inside the premise of Square Bhaktapur.
Bhairav Nath Temple – An important tourist destination in Bhaktapur, a temple dedicated to the god of terror and death, Bhairava.

Entrance Fee For Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Foreign Nationals: US$ 15 or NPR. 1,500
SAARC Nationals: NPR. 500
Chinese: NPR. 500
Nepalese: Free
Below 10 year: free
Groups: For 11-20 pax, one tour leader can enter free

Accessibility: How To Get To Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Drive: Public bus or taxi
Public Bus cost: NPR 50 foreigners, NPR 25 Nepalese
Taxi cost: NPR 1200-NPR 1500
Duration: 20-45 minutes, based on traffic
Note: There is a direct bus available which departs from Ratna park daily