Bhaktapur is the third largest city in the Kathmandu valley. The city was once the capital of Nepal during the great Malla Kingdom from the 12th to the 15th century.

Four square miles of land situated at an altitude of 1,401 meter from sea-level is a home to Traditional art and architecture, pottery and weaving industries, rich local customs and culture, and the every-day life of Bhaktapur people. All that and more will have you visit this untouched ancient city more than once! Nepal's Malla dynasty's achievements in arts and crafts are reflected throughout the Bhaktapur city. Bhaktapur is also known by woodcarving artists, for it's cap known as Bhadgaon Topi, and for it's curd known by Nepalese as the `Bhaktapur ko Dahe' (meaning Curd made in Bhaktapur). Tourists visiting the city also take the time to relax and observe other interesting happenings in the city such as children's playing outside their home and in temple yards, busy and color-full open markets, women's making clay-pots, weaving, and sun-drying crops and vegetable products. Bhaktapur is located at 14 km east of Kathmandu and can be reached by public transport. A day-trip to Bhaktapur is a popular tourist itinerary, so make it yours soon!.

Places to visit in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur Durbar Square : One of the world heritage sites in the country which reflects the city's rich culture, art and architectural design, it is also the central setting of the city for architectural monuments and arts. The golden gate is the entrance to the main countyard of the Palace of 55 windows, the gate is regarded as the world's most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind. 

Bhaktapur Nyatapol Temple

This temple is 30 meter tall, and is the tallest temple in the Kathmandu valley. It was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1708 AD. Each of its five terrace holds a pair of figures, starting from bottom wrestlers, elephant, lion, griffins and goddesses. 

The Bhaktapur National Art Gallery

Bhairavnath Temple of Bhaktapur

Built as a one-story pagoda during the reign of King Jagat Jyoti Malla, later changed into a three-storey temple in 1718 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla, this temple now stands for its artistic grandeur. Bhairavnath temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav - the god of Terror.

Dattatraya Temple:

Built in 1427 AD, the temple is said to have been built from a single tree. A Monastery having exquisitely carved peacock windows is located near the temple. 

Getting to Bhaktapur :

From Kathmandu, take a taxi or a bus or ride a bike. Ride should not cost more than Rs 300 for a taxi or Rs 10 for a public bus that leaves from Bagbazaar Bus Station. By taxi you will arrive in Bhaktapur in about 30 minutes, and about 45 minutes by public bus. You can also ride a bike to get to the city in about 45 to 50 minutes.