Things to do in Bhaktapur
THINGS TO DO IN BHAKTAPUR
1. Observe Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the major attractions of Bhaktapur. The houses, temples, palaces, and statues are rich in wood carvings, stone art, metal art, and terracotta art. The craftsmanship reflects the Newari culture of Kathmandu Valley.
2. Enjoy Taumadhi Square
Taumadhi Square is considered the second most important square of Bhaktapur. The five-storied temple, located in the square, miraculously resisted the massive earthquake in 2015. The square has two other temples too. The square is surrounded by rooftop restaurants that all offer wonderful views of the Nyatapola Temple.
3. Visit National Art Museum
The National Art Museum is located right in the middle of Durbar Square. Tapestries Thangka paintings and some stone carvings are the most important things to be looked at. Drawings of kings with a brief description give the history of the rulers of Nepal. Nepali rulers have crazy stories. Most were poisoned, held captive, or shot down.
4. Taleju Bhawani Temple
Taleju Bhawani Temple, designated for Hindus only, is located inside the old palace. Even though non-Hindus cannot enter or take photos inside, they can go up to the golden gate and can see the king’s pond which has a serpent statue inside. The incredible carvings on the outside of the temple entrance are admiring.
4. Watch Nyatapola Dewal Temple
Napoli is the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal. Nyatapola is a five-storied ancient temple. The statue of Goddess Siddhi Laxmi, the powerful tantric goddess, is inside Temple. A group of elderly men and women singing and praying can be seen in the evenings generally at 7 pm. It’s really beautiful to witness. The temple looks magical at night.
5. Pachpanna Jhyale Darbar (Palace of 55 Windows)
One of the best architectural gems, located in Durbar Square, is Pachpanna Jhyale Darbar in Bhaktapur. It was built during the Malla dynasty which is known as the Golden Age in the Kathmandu Valley.
6. Have Juju Dhau of Bhaktapur
Juju Dhau is the local name of a yogurt. ‘Juju’ means ‘King’ and ‘Dhau’ means curd. It is prepared only in Bhaktapur since ancient times. Bhaktapur is famous for it. The taste is liked by everyone and is unforgettable.
7. Visit Changu Narayan Temple
Changu Narayan or Dolagiri is an ancient Hindu temple, located on a high hilltop in Changunarayan Municipality of Bhaktapur District, Nepal. The temple is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Nepal. The temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu. The temple is surrounded by a champak tree forest and a small village named as Changu.
8. Visit Dattatraya and pottery Square
Both Dattatraya and pottery square are special for pottery and its terracotta creations and exceptionally beautiful thanka and paubha paintings. It is just about two minutes of walk from the Taumadhi.
9. Visit Nagarkot
Nagarkot, the highest point of Bhaktapur, is one of the most beautiful places that visitors simply could not ignore. Nagarkot is famous for watching the sunrise. The sun rises among the beautiful hills and mountains and sets on the heads of miniature architectures of the Kathmandu Valley.
Moreover, travelers go there to see the green wilderness on top of the freezing fog.
10. Camp at Ghyampe Danda
Ghyampe Danda (hill) is a perfect place for camping. Right above the Pilot Baba Ashram and below Ranikot Danda, there situates the Ghyampe Danda. Besides camping, ziplining or hiking can be done. With the beautiful Himalayan, Ghyampe Danda also offers a ravishing sunset view.
Among all the festivals, the Biska Jatra, Gai Jatra, Holi, Tongue Piercing, and Sindoor festivals are the most colorful and energizing. Juju Dhau, Bara, Newari Pancake, Samay Baji, Newari Set Meal, Choila, Spiciest Grilled Meat, Aalu Tama, Healthy Stew, Sekuwa, Yummiest Barbecue Meat, Kachilaa are Newar’s Unique food varieties to be tasted.