The most iconic landmarks, temples, viewpoints, and cultural sites in Bhaktapur, Nepal — what makes each one special and how to visit.
The royal heart of the old city, this UNESCO-listed plaza is lined with temples, statues and the former palace of the Malla kings. Far less crowded than Kathmandu's own Durbar Square, its open brick courtyards let you take in the carved struts and golden gateways at a slow pace. Entry is via the foreign-visitor ticket that covers the whole walled old town (verify current fee).
Nepal's tallest pagoda, this five-tiered temple rises above Taumadhi Square on a stepped plinth guarded by stone wrestlers, elephants and lions. Built in 1702 under King Bhupatindra Malla, it survived the 1934 and 2015 earthquakes almost untouched, a testament to Newar engineering. Climb the steep stone stairway at dawn for the best light and an empty square.
The 55-Window Palace is the showpiece of Durbar Square, its long upper floor pierced by intricately carved wooden lattice windows. Beside it the gilded Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka) frames a tympanum of the goddess Taleju and is considered one of the finest pieces of repousse metalwork in Asia. The adjoining wings now house the National Art Gallery.
A short walk south of Taumadhi, this working square is where potters still shape clay on spinning wheels and lay out thousands of pots, lamps and figurines to dry in the sun. You can watch the kick-wheels in action, try the wheel yourself for a small fee, and buy souvenirs straight from the maker. It is at its busiest and most photogenic in the dry pre-monsoon months.
The liveliest of Bhaktapur's three main squares, anchored by the towering Nyatapola and the boat-roofed Bhairabnath Temple. Cafe terraces overlook the plaza, making it the ideal spot to sit with a cup of tea and a bowl of juju dhau while watching daily life. It is also the focal point of the spectacular Bisket Jatra chariot festival each April.
The oldest part of the city, built around the 15th-century Dattatreya Temple said to have been raised from the timber of a single tree. The surrounding lanes hide the famous Peacock Window, a masterpiece of Newar woodcarving, and the small but excellent Woodcarving and Brass & Bronze museums. It feels more local and untouristed than the central squares.
Go deeper with our travel blog guides for Bhaktapur and beyond.
