Bhaktapur

Written by Lorraine Aust, Santosh Thapa
11/08/2025
A woman in a red sari walks past ancient architecture at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal.
Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz, Pexels

Bhaktapur is a city in Nepal that feels like stepping back in time, offering well-preserved ancient architecture, vibrant local culture, and traditional craftsmanship for visitors to explore.

While not a party destination, Bhaktapur offers various cafes and rooftop restaurants around its main squares, such as Durbar Square and Taumadhi Square, where visitors can socialize and observe local life. Pottery Square also provides an opportunity to engage with local artisans and witness traditional pottery making.

Top 5 Things to do in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur offers a deep dive into ancient Newari culture through its historic squares, intricate architecture, traditional crafts, and unique culinary experiences.

1. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Wandering through Bhaktapur Durbar Square is like stepping into a living museum, showcasing exquisite Newar architecture, royal palaces, and religious shrines. Key highlights include the Golden Gate, a masterpiece of metalwork, and the 55 Window Palace, known for its intricate wooden carvings. Visitors can also explore the National Art Museum within the square. The restored beauty of the square, despite past earthquake damage, allows for a comprehensive appreciation of Nepal's historical artistry.

Cost: Entry to Bhaktapur city, which includes all four main squares (Durbar, Taumadhi, Pottery, and Dattatreya), costs approximately US$15 or NPR 1,800-2,000 for non-SAARC foreign nationals. For SAARC nationals and Chinese, the fee is NPR 500. This ticket can be extended for up to a week at no extra cost by presenting your passport at the ticket office.

Transport: Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the central point of the city, and all major attractions within the main squares are within walking distance as the old city center is car-free.

2. Visit Nyatapola Temple in Taumadhi Square

The five-storied Nyatapola Temple, located in Taumadhi Square, stands as Nepal's tallest temple, dedicated to the fierce Tantric goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. Its impressive pagoda-style architecture, built in 1702, has remarkably withstood significant earthquakes. Visitors can admire the detailed artistry, intricate carvings, and the guardian statues (wrestlers, elephants, lions, griffins, and tantric goddesses) on each of its five terraces. Climbing the steps offers panoramic views of Bhaktapur's squares and the surrounding Kathmandu Valley.

Cost: Included in the Bhaktapur city entry fee.

Transport: Nyatapola Temple is centrally located within Taumadhi Square, a short walk from Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

3. Experience Pottery Making at Pottery Square

Pottery Square (Bolachha Tole) offers a glimpse into Bhaktapur's traditional craftsmanship. Here, local artisans can be observed making various clay items using age-old techniques, from drying pots in the sun to operating traditional kilns. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in hands-on pottery-making workshops, providing a direct engagement with the local culture and an understanding of this ancient art form.

Cost: Entry to Pottery Square is included in the Bhaktapur city entry fee. Participation in a pottery workshop may incur an additional cost, with tours sometimes bundling this activity (e.g., around US$86 per person for a 'clay, curd, and chant' experience, or as part of a package for around US$110).

Transport: Pottery Square is a five-minute walk south from Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

4. Visit Changu Narayan Temple

Located on a hilltop about 6 km from Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan is Nepal's oldest Hindu temple, dating back to the 4th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its intricate wood, metal, and stone artworks, showcasing masterpieces of Nepalese art. The temple precinct includes smaller shrines and historical pillars, offering both spiritual significance and panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and Himalayas on clear days.

Cost: Entry fee is approximately NPR 350 for foreigners and NPR 150 for SAARC nationals.

Transport: Changu Narayan Temple is about 6 km north of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Public buses and taxis are available from Bhaktapur. Many visitors also choose to hike from Nagarkot (13 km away) or Bhaktapur, enjoying scenic routes through traditional villages.

5. Savor Newari Cuisine and Juju Dhau

Bhaktapur is an excellent place to experience authentic Newari cuisine, known for its rich flavors and unique dishes. Visitors should try 'Juju Dhau', often called 'King Curd', a delicious local yogurt traditionally served in clay pots, which is a must-try culinary experience. Exploring local eateries and engaging in a culinary journey can provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.

Cost: Costs vary for food and drinks depending on the establishment. A food tour focusing on Newari cuisine can start from around $100.

Transport: Local restaurants and cafes offering Newari cuisine and Juju Dhau are widely available within walking distance of the main squares in Bhaktapur.

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