Bhaktapur Nepal feels like a city that stepped straight out of the Middle Ages. Its name means “City of Devotees”, and it lives up to it. Everywhere you look, there are temples, shrines, carved wooden windows and brick courtyards. Meanwhile, potters spin clay in the open air, and farmers spread grain to dry in the squares. In short, it is the best-preserved of the three old royal cities of the Kathmandu Valley. So, this guide covers what to see, where to eat and how to plan your visit.
Quick Facts About Bhaktapur Nepal
| Country | Nepal |
| Region | Kathmandu Valley, about 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu |
| Known For | Newar architecture, pagoda temples, woodcarving, pottery and juju dhau yogurt |
| UNESCO Status | Part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 |
| History | Capital of the Malla kingdom of the Kathmandu Valley until the late 1400s |
| Best Time to Visit | October to November and March to April |
| Getting There | About 45 to 60 minutes by taxi or bus from Kathmandu |
Where Is Bhaktapur Nepal?
Bhaktapur lies on the eastern side of the Kathmandu Valley, about 13 kilometers from central Kathmandu. Together with Kathmandu and Patan, it was one of three rival royal cities in the valley. However, Bhaktapur feels quieter than the capital. In fact, vehicles are restricted in much of the old center, so walking is pleasant and easy.
Why Visit Bhaktapur Nepal?
First, Bhaktapur Nepal has an extraordinary concentration of temples and palaces. Most date from the 15th to 18th centuries, when the Malla kings built lavishly to show their power. As a result, UNESCO included the city in the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site in 1979.
Second, traditional life continues here. The city is home mainly to the Newar people, who are known for their art, festivals and food. Woodcarvers, potters and painters still work in small workshops along the lanes. Finally, Bhaktapur is a great base for exploring the eastern valley and enjoying mountain views. If you loved our guide to Luang Prabang in Laos, you will feel at home among these temples too.
Things to Do in Bhaktapur Nepal
Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Durbar Square was the royal heart of the city. Here you will find the Palace of 55 Windows, with its intricately carved wooden balcony. Next to it stands the Golden Gate, a gilded doorway from the 1750s that is one of the finest pieces of metalwork in Nepal. In addition, the square is full of stone temples and statues. Some were damaged in the 2015 earthquake, but many have been carefully restored.
Climb the Steps of Nyatapola Temple
Next, walk to Taumadhi Square to see Nyatapola, a five-tiered pagoda built in 1702. At about 30 meters tall, it is the tallest pagoda temple in Nepal. Pairs of stone guardians line the staircase. According to tradition, each pair is ten times stronger than the pair below. Remarkably, the temple survived both the 1934 and 2015 earthquakes.
Watch the Potters at Pottery Square
In Pottery Square, artisans shape clay on wheels and leave hundreds of pots to dry in the sun. It is one of the most photogenic spots in Bhaktapur Nepal. Moreover, you can often try the wheel yourself for a small fee. Afterwards, browse the shops for small clay souvenirs.
Find the Peacock Window in Dattatreya Square
Dattatreya Square is the oldest part of the city. Its temple is said to be built from the wood of a single tree. Nearby, look for the famous Peacock Window, a carved latticework window that many consider the best in the valley. In addition, the square has several small museums devoted to woodcarving and metalwork.
Taste Juju Dhau
Before you leave, try juju dhau, which means “king of yogurts”. It is a rich, sweet yogurt set in clay bowls, and Bhaktapur is famous for it. Then, sit in a rooftop café and enjoy it with a view of the temples.
Festivals in Bhaktapur Nepal
Bhaktapur hosts many colorful festivals. The most famous is Bisket Jatra, which marks the Nepali New Year in April. During the festival, crowds pull huge wooden chariots through the streets in a playful tug of war. Similarly, Gai Jatra in late summer fills the lanes with costumed processions.
Day Trips From Bhaktapur Nepal
Changu Narayan Temple
Changu Narayan sits on a hilltop a few kilometers north of town. It is considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, and it is part of the same UNESCO site. You can drive there in about 20 minutes or hike through fields and villages.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a hill village on the rim of the valley. On clear mornings, it offers sunrise views over a long stretch of the Himalayas. Many visitors stay overnight and then hike back down toward Bhaktapur.
One Historical Fact About Bhaktapur Nepal
For a long time, Bhaktapur was the capital of the whole Kathmandu Valley under the Malla dynasty. In the late 1400s, the kingdom split into three. After that, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu and Patan competed to build the most beautiful temples, which is why the valley has so many today.
How to Get to Bhaktapur Nepal
Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. From there, Bhaktapur is about 45 to 60 minutes away by taxi, depending on traffic. Local buses are cheaper but slower. Also note that foreign visitors pay an entry fee to the heritage zone, so keep your ticket with you.
Best Time to Visit Bhaktapur Nepal
The best time to visit is in autumn, from October to November, when skies are clear and the weather is mild. Spring, from March to April, is also pleasant, and it brings the Bisket Jatra festival. On the other hand, the monsoon from June to September brings heavy rain and cloudy skies. Meanwhile, winter mornings can be cold, so pack layers.
Is Bhaktapur Nepal Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Bhaktapur Nepal is one of the most beautiful historic cities in Asia, and it is easy to reach from Kathmandu. Ideally, spend at least one night to enjoy the squares after the day visitors leave. For another ancient royal city in Asia, read our guide to Gyeongju in South Korea.
Final Thoughts on Bhaktapur Nepal
In short, Bhaktapur rewards travelers who slow down. Watch the potters at work, climb Nyatapola at sunset and eat juju dhau in a quiet courtyard. Before long, you will understand why so many visitors call it the most charming city in the Kathmandu Valley.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Göran Höglund (Kartläsarn): Nepal – Bhaktapur Nyatapola temple, CC BY 2.0
- Janak Bhatta: Bhaktapur Durbar Square 5, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Goutam1962: In and around Bhaktapur Pottery Square 22, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Nrik kiran: Bisket Jatra festival 2018 at the Nyatapola temple, Bhaktapur, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Tanweer Morshed: Bhaktapur street 01, CC BY-SA 4.0
