NEPAL

The City of Devotees

Bhaktapur is one of Nepal’s most charming and well preserved cities in the valley of Kathmandu. It is also known as the City of Devotees, a living museum of Newari culture and architecture.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming full of ancient temples and shrines that showcase remarkable architecture, exquisite wood carvings and metal craft. Having resisted change more than other cities, a walk through the historic squares and narrow alleys gives a ‘step back in time’ feeling.

Durbar Square is the main highlight of Bhaktapur. A conglomeration of pagoda and shikhara-style temples, mostly dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses, are grouped around a 55-window palace of brick and wood.

The square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the valley as it highlights the ancient arts of Nepal. Worth seeing are the five-storied Nyataponla Temple, the country’s tallest temple; the giant three-storied Dattatreya Temple; the beautiful Pottery Square; the Peacock Window; and many more.