This medieval royal city has three main squares with traditional red-brick temples and wood carvings. Local artisans still practice pottery and weaving in its narrow streets.
In Bhaktapur, 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu, you'll walk through narrow brick-paved streets where woodcarvers chisel window frames in open workshops and potters spin clay vessels in sunny courtyards. Local vendors sell the creamy Juju Dhau (king curd) in traditional clay bowls, while temple priests perform daily rituals at centuries-old temples like the five-story Nyatapola and the intricately carved Palace of Fifty-five Windows.
Exploring the Three Squares
Three main squares make up Bhaktapur's old town core. In Durbar Square, you'll find the Palace of Fifty-five Windows, built in 1427, with detailed wooden carvings across its walls and multiple inner courtyards. The 30-meter Nyatapola Temple dominates Taumadhi Square, standing strong since 1702 despite several major earthquakes. In Dattatreya Square, woodcarvers work in their workshops around the Dattatreya Temple, which local craftsmen built using wood from a single tree.
Traditional Crafts in Action
Walk through Bhaktapur's streets and courtyards to see craftspeople at work. In Pottery Square, artisans shape clay on traditional wheels, their finished pots drying in rows under the sun. Watch woodcarvers in Dattatreya Square as they transform blocks of wood into intricate window frames and door panels. Many will show you their tools and explain the techniques passed down through generations.
Daily Life in Bhaktapur
Early morning brings locals to the stone water spouts with brass vessels, while temple priests light incense and perform pujas. Markets come alive with fresh produce and spices. In the evening, people light butter lamps at temples, and you might hear traditional music played on drums and cymbals in the squares.
Local Food and King Curd
Sample Juju Dhau, a thick yogurt made with buffalo milk, set in clay pots and sweetened with honey. Local restaurants serve Newari dishes including bara (lentil pancakes), chatamari (Nepali pizza), and yomari (steamed rice dough with molasses filling). Choose a rooftop restaurant to eat with views of the temples and, on clear days, the mountain ranges beyond.
Getting There and Practical Information
Reach Bhaktapur by local bus from Kathmandu's Ratna Park station (45 minutes) or by taxi (30 minutes). International visitors pay 1500 NPR entrance fee, while SAARC country citizens pay 500 NPR. You'll need to explore on foot as vehicles can't enter the old town. Stay in one of several small hotels housed in restored Newari buildings within the old town, equipped with private bathrooms and wifi.
