When I first stepped into Bhaktapur, I instantly fell in love. There’s something about this ancient city that draws you in right from the start—the energy, the history, the beauty. It's not just a place you visit; it’s a place you feel. Walking through the narrow, cobbled streets, surrounded by the stunning architecture of temples and traditional Newari houses, I realised I had found my favourite city in Nepal.
Often overshadowed by Nepal’s famous trekking trails, Bhaktapur offers something completely different. It’s a journey into the soul of Nepal. The city's old-world charm is almost magical; from the peaceful courtyards where locals gather to the vibrant Durbar Square filled with intricate wood carvings, it feels like stepping back in time. Every corner seems to tell a story. I could spend hours just wandering, soaking in the atmosphere.
What really made Bhaktapur special for me was the connection I felt with the place. Unlike the bustling streets of Kathmandu, there’s a calmness here, a slower pace of life that resonates with how I’ve come to appreciate living in Nepal. The sense of community, the genuine smiles from the locals, and the unhurried way the city breathes all made me fall in love with it straight away.
Whether you’re exploring the temples, watching artisans craft pottery, or simply sitting with a cup of tea and watching the world go by, Bhaktapur is a city that captures your heart. If you're visiting Nepal, don’t miss this timeless gem—you’ll never forget the feeling it leaves you with.
Bhaktapur: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Timeless Gem While Visiting Nepal
Short History of Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur's golden age truly began in the 12th century, under the reign of the Malla kings, who transformed the city into a center of art, architecture, and devotion. During this period, the city became a major hub for the production of pottery, woodwork, metalwork, and textiles, as well as the seat of political power. This is why Bhaktapur is often referred to as the "City of Devotees"—every corner of the city was, and still is, infused with a deep sense of spirituality. It was here that some of Nepal’s most iconic temples were constructed, many of which remain standing today as monuments to the city’s cultural resilience.
Bhaktapur’s influence wasn’t just political; it was deeply cultural. The city has always been a living testament to Nepal’s rich traditions, especially in art and religion. The Newars, the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, developed a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism that is still practiced today. Temples dedicated to deities like Vishnu, Shiva, and the Buddha coexist in harmony throughout the city, showcasing Bhaktapur’s spiritual diversity.
In 2015, Bhaktapur was significantly impacted by an earthquake that caused damage to many of its historic buildings and temples. Following the quake, the Nepali government, along with local and international organizations, stepped in to support restoration efforts. A key aspect of the rebuilding process was the emphasis on preserving the city's heritage. The government offered financial support to rebuild using traditional methods, including the reuse of old wall bricks from the damaged structures. This approach helped maintain Bhaktapur’s original architectural style and historical integrity, ensuring that the city retained its cultural significance while being restored.
Bhaktapur is much more than just a pretty city. Its history runs deep, and it holds an important place in shaping Nepal’s identity. Back in its heyday, Bhaktapur was one of the three kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley, alongside Kathmandu and Patan. Each kingdom had its own distinct style, culture, and royal influence, but Bhaktapur—known as Khwopa in the native Newari language—was the cultural and artistic hub. The legacy of this creative energy is still alive today in the city’s many festivals, traditional crafts, and centuries-old buildings.
Temples, Squares, and Architectural Marvels
At the heart of Bhaktapur lies Durbar Square, the former royal palace complex that served as the home of Bhaktapur’s kings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an open-air museum, filled with pagoda-style temples, statues, and palaces adorned with intricate wood carvings and metalwork. One of the most impressive structures in Durbar Square is the 55-Window Palace, a grand example of Newari craftsmanship. As you wander the square, it’s easy to imagine what life must have been like during the height of Bhaktapur’s reign—this was a city where kings walked, where artisans honed their craft, and where devotion was a way of life.
Nestled in Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square, the Vatsala Temple stands out with its impressive stone architecture, a rarity in a city known for its intricate wooden carvings. Built in the 17th century by King Bhupatindra Malla.
Unlike the pagoda-style temples more commonly seen in the Kathmandu Valley, Vatsala’s towering design and intricate carvings make it feel like a stone masterpiece. The temple’s bell, famously known as the “Bell of Barking Dogs”, has its own legend—when rung, it was believed that the sound could be heard throughout the city and even made the dogs howl.
Unfortunately, like many of Bhaktapur’s ancient structures, the Vatsala Temple was heavily damaged in the 2015 earthquake. While the original temple is no longer standing, restoration efforts have aimed to faithfully rebuild it, preserving its historical and cultural value.
One of Bhaktapur’s most iconic symbols, the Nyatapola Temple, is a five-story pagoda that stands proudly in Taumadhi Square. Built in 1702 by King Bhupatendra Malla, it’s not only the tallest temple in Nepal, but also a stunning example of Newari engineering and craftsmanship. Rising 30 meters high, the Nyatapola Temple dominates the skyline, and once you see it in person, it’s easy to understand why it’s held in such high regard.
Dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi, a Tantric deity believed to possess immense power, the temple was constructed to ensure her protection over the city. Every part of the temple reflects this reverence for the divine, from the intricate woodwork at the top to the massive stone guardians at the base of the staircase. These guardians—mythical creatures, wrestlers, elephants, lions, and griffins—stand watch, each figure twice as strong as the one below, symbolizing the protection and power surrounding the temple.
One of the things that makes Nyatapola so impressive is its seismic resilience. Even during the devastating 2015 earthquake, which damaged much of Bhaktapur, Nyatapola stood strong—a testament to the genius of Newari architecture. The builders used a unique technique that allowed the structure to “sway” with the earth's movements, rather than crumble.
Climbing up the steep steps of the Nyatapola Temple is like taking a journey back in time. Each level reveals a new perspective of the city below, and when you reach the top, the view over Bhaktapur is breathtaking. It’s a spot to pause, reflect, and feel the energy of a place where history and spirituality intertwine.
Nyatapola is more than just an architectural wonder; it’s a living part of Bhaktapur’s culture and history. Whether you’re admiring the temple from afar or standing at its base, you can’t help but feel its power—a true masterpiece of Nepal’s heritage.
Tucked away in the quiet Dattatraya Square of Bhaktapur, the Dattatraya Temple is one of the city’s hidden gems, offering a unique glimpse into Nepal’s rich religious and architectural heritage. Built in 1427 by King Yaksha Malla, this temple is not just another pagoda-style shrine—it holds a special place in Bhaktapur’s history, being the only temple in the Kathmandu Valley dedicated to the three deities of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, collectively known as Dattatraya.
What makes this temple particularly fascinating is the legend behind its construction. It’s said that the temple was built using the wood from a single tree, and as you stand before its towering structure, it’s hard not to marvel at this feat. The Newari artisans outdid themselves with the temple’s intricate wood and stone carvings, which feature everything from deities to mythical creatures, symbolizing the spiritual power of the temple. The famous Garuda statue stands guard in front, adding to the temple's mystique.
While the temple was damaged in the 2015 earthquake, efforts have been made to restore it, preserving its status as a spiritual and cultural landmark. The area is quieter than Bhaktapur’s more famous spots, giving you the chance to soak in the atmosphere without the hustle of crowds.
You’ll find many cozy cafes in Dattatraya Square, each with its own charm and ambiance. Be sure to look for a rooftop cafe to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Sitting atop one of these cafes, you can sip your coffee while taking in the breathtaking sights of Bhaktapur’s ancient architecture and the vibrant life of the square below. It’s the perfect way to relax and soak in the rich culture and history that surrounds you.
One of Bhaktapur’s most enchanting spots, Pottery Square is where centuries-old craftsmanship comes alive before your eyes. As soon as you step into the square, you’re greeted by rows of clay pots drying under the sun, the air filled with the earthy scent of fresh clay. This is where the ancient art of pottery, passed down through generations, continues to thrive.
The square isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a working hub where local artisans shape clay into everything from simple bowls to intricately designed vases. Using traditional techniques, including manual spinning wheels, potters skill-fully mould the clay with their hands, each piece unique in its design. Watching them work is mesmerising—you can see the years of experience and artistry in every movement.
Pottery has been a part of Bhaktapur’s heritage for centuries, and the craft is deeply tied to the Newar culture. The soil of Bhaktapur is rich in clay, making it the perfect setting for pottery. Walking around, you’ll see kilns in the corners of the square, where the clay pieces are fired and transformed into finished products. It’s a true window into the daily life of the city’s artisans.
If you’re feeling adventurous, many of the potters offer hands-on experiences where you can try making your own pottery. And don't forget to get some souvenirs for your loved ones and yourself!
A Taste of Newari Cuisine: Flavors You Can’t Miss in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s also a treat for your taste buds! After a day of wandering through ancient temples and admiring intricate wood carvings, you’ve definitely earned a taste of Newari cuisine. Trust me, you’ll want to sit down at one of the cozy Newari restaurants scattered around the city and dive into the local flavors.
Let’s start with the humble but addictive momo. These Nepali dumplings are a must-try, filled with juicy goodness and served with a spicy dipping sauce that has just the right amount of kick. You might think, “Oh, it’s just a dumpling,” but once you’ve had Bhaktapur momo, you'll wonder why they haven’t taken over the world yet.
Next up is chatamari, often lovingly called "Nepali pizza"—though don’t expect pepperoni here. This thin, crispy rice pancake is topped with eggs, meat, and spices, and somehow manages to be both light and filling at the same time. It’s the perfect snack to keep you going as you explore more of the city.
And then there’s bara, a Newari lentil pancake that’s equal parts hearty and delicious. Sometimes topped with an egg or meat, bara is a great example of how Newari cuisine takes simple ingredients and turns them into something special. It's the kind of comfort food that makes you feel right at home, even in the middle of a centuries-old city.
Now, here’s the pro tip: after all that delicious food, find yourself a rooftop bar. Whether you’re sipping on some Nepali tea or cracking open a cold beer, the panoramic views of Bhaktapur and the surrounding hills are the perfect way to end the day. It’s a moment where you can sit back, enjoy the blend of history, food, and stunning views, and maybe even wonder why you didn’t come here sooner.
Bhaktapur’s Newari cuisine isn’t just food—it’s an experience. So, loosen that belt, grab a plate, and dig into the delicious traditions of this ancient city!
How Much Time Should You Spend?
Bhaktapur is a small town, and you could technically see the main sites in half a day. But why rush? If you really want to feel the essence of Bhaktapur, I recommend spending at least a full day or even staying overnight. After all, sunsets from a rooftop bar overlooking Durbar Square are something you don’t want to miss! In the early morning, the streets are quiet, and you’ll see the city before it wakes up, making for a peaceful experience.
This time, we only spent half a day, as we moved on to spend a relaxing night in Kakani, where it’s a tradition for Sanjog's family to visit each year. But we will definitely come back to this beautiful city and make sure to spend a night—wandering through the streets at night would be magical!
How to Get to Bhaktapur
Getting to Bhaktapur from Kathmandu is pretty simple and there are two main options:
Taxi: The easiest and most convenient way to reach Bhaktapur is by taxi. It’s about a 30 to 40-minute ride from central Kathmandu, but this can vary depending on the traffic. Just be prepared for Kathmandu’s usual traffic jams!
Bus: If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, local buses run frequently from Bagbazar bus park in Kathmandu. While the ride can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic, it’s a more authentic, local experience. Keep in mind that there’s no English signage, so it’s a good idea to be familiar with the route before you hop on.
A taxi may cost you around 1500 NPR, while bus only 70 NPR one way. What a difference, right?
Final words
Bhaktapur is a place where time feels slower, where every corner offers a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry. It’s a town that not only shows you its history but lets you feel it. Whether you’re into history, art, food, or just want a break from Kathmandu’s bustling streets, Bhaktapur should be on your itinerary.
So, when you're making your way through Nepal, don't just go for the mountains—take a detour to Bhaktapur. Trust me, it's worth every moment. You might leave with a handcrafted souvenir, but the real gift is the experience itself.
Have you ever been in Bhaktapur?
I’d love to hear about your own experiences, so please feel free to share them in the comments below! And if you haven’t already, I invite you to follow my journey on Instagram, where I share the real, raw moments of life in Nepal, the beauty of slow living, and my deep connection to this incredible place. Let’s keep exploring and growing together!