Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon) is situated at an altitude of 1,401m Bhaktapur covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur or the City of Devotees still retains and medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated to myriad wonders of culturaland artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulerscontinues to be reflectedat theDurbar Square.Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. Bhaktapur is famous for woodcarving and the Bhadgaolen topi or cap. The city lies about 14kmeastof Kathmandu and can be reached by public transport and by trolley busses.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square:-
The Golden Gate is the entrance to the main courtyard of the palace of 55 windows. Built by King Ranjit Malla, the gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world. This gate is emnbellished with deities and monsters with marvelous intricacy. The Palace of 55 Windows was built in 1700 AD. Among the brick walls in their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows. This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving. The stone temple of Batsla Devi which is also located in the Durbar Square is full of intricate carvings. This temple also sets a beautiful example of shikhara style architecture in Nepal. There is a bronze bell on the terrace of the temple which is also known as the "Bell of Barking Dogs". This colossal bell palced in 1737 AD, was rung of signal curfew during those days.
The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like the Lion Gate, the Statue of King Bhupatindra Mall, the Picture Gallary, the Batsala temple etc. A magnificent statue of King Bhupatindra Mall in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the place. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979.
The National Art Gallery:-
Contains ancient and medieval paintings belonging to Hindu and Buddhist schools depicting Tanstrism of various periods and descriptions.
Nyatapola Temple:-
This five-story pagoda was built in 1702 AD by king Bhupatindra Mall it stands on a five-terraced platform. On each of the terraces squant a pair of figures. This is one of the tallest pagodas and it famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.
BhairavnathTemple:-
This temple was first built as a one-story pagoda but was later changed into a three-storey temple in 1718 AD by king Bhupatindra Mall. The temple is noted for its artistic grandeur. It is dedicated to Lord Bhairav - the god of terror.
Dattatraya Temple:-
Built in 1427 AD, this temple is said to have been built from the trunk of a single tree. Near this temple is a monastery with exquisitely carved peacock windows.
Dattraya Square:-
The Square takes its name from the Dattrataya Temple. The Square is famous for ornate monasteries known as Maths. National Wood-working Museum and the Brass and Bronze Musem are housed here.
Outskrits of Bhaktapur(Bhadgaon)
Surya Vinayak:-
Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhadgoan, the temple of Ganesh is placed in a sylvan setting to catch the first rays of the rising sun. It is a good picnic spot flanked by many attractive landscapes.
Thimi:-
Thimi is a farming town situated 8km east of Kathmandu on the way to Bhatapur. Thimi is famous for earthen pots, home spun cotton cloth and artistic masks.
Changu Narayan:-
Situated at the endof a long ridge which runs well into the Vally, it si said to have neen built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the Valley. It waslisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979.
Khokana:-
Khokana is a Newar farming village lying 7 km south of the Ring Road that encirceles the two cities of Kiathnandu and Patan The village begins with a wide cobbeled street and in the middle of the main street lies the temple of Shekali Mai. Kokhana's local mother Goddess. Khokanan is famous for mustard oil which is still made the traditional way, and spun woollen yearn.
Panauti:-
It is a thriving Newaqri villavge with beautiful temples and inbteresting old houses. The drive passes through the beautiful countryside.
Namo Buddha:-
It is situated on a hill above Panauti. It requires an easy drive or good walk to get there. There is and amazing legend related to the Buddha which is commemorated by an ancient stone slab and a stupa with the all-seeing eyes Lord Buddha.
Timal Narayan:-
The route from Dhulikhel to Timal Narayan is ideal for a short trek. Form here one can have a beautiful view of Gaurishankar Himal and other important peaks as well as the Sunkoshi river. A pleasant option is to the village of the Tamange people in this area.
Palanchowk Bhagawati:-
It is 42 Km,onehour drive from Kathmandu to Palanchowk on the Arniko Highwqy (Highway to Tibet border.) This noted historic temple of goddess Kali is located at a hilltop some 7km north of Panchkhal. One can really enjoy the panoramic view of the landcape from this spot. This temple is said to have been constructed during the reign of King Man Dev. The temple houses a three feet high idol of goddess Bhagwati (Kali) aretistically carvedin a black stone which
Places to see in Nepal