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Bhaktapur Durbar Square

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Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

This royal square is a historic complex of palaces and temples located in the center of Bhaktapur. Travelers visit this site to see traditional Newari architecture and walk through the surrounding old-world alleys that preserve the city's medieval layout.

Getting There

The square is located within the heart of Bhaktapur. From the main city entrance or central transport hubs, it is accessible via a short walk or a local rickshaw ride, typically taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on the starting point.

Time Requirement

Allow approximately 3 to 5 hours to explore the main square and the adjacent narrow streets. This provides enough time to observe the temple carvings and the surrounding residential courtyards without rushing.

When to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. The site gets crowded during peak tourist seasons and local festivals. Visiting during the autumn or spring months generally offers the most stable weather.

Nearby Attractions

The square is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other nearby sites on foot:

  • Nyatapola Temple: 0.1km
  • Pujarimath Museum: 0.7km
  • Suryavinayak Temple: 1.8km
  • Doleshwor Mahadeva Temple: 3.8km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Nyatapola Temple

Temples & religious sites

Nyatapola Temple

A five-tiered pagoda-style temple in the heart of Bhaktapur, considered the tallest temple in Nepal. Built in the early 18th century, it has withstood numerous earthquakes over the centuries.

0.1 km away

Pujarimath Museum

Museums & galleries

Pujarimath Museum

This museum in Bhaktapur occupies a building originally constructed in the 15th century and rebuilt in 1763 into its present form. It's a great place to soak in the atmosphere of an old monastery building.

0.7 km away

Suryavinayak Temple

Temples & religious sites

Suryavinayak Temple

Suryavinayak Temple is a Hindu temple in Bhaktapur dedicated to the elephant god Ganesh. It is considered one of the Kathmandu Valley's leading Ganesh temples and is also known as a good spot to watch the sunrise.

1.8 km away

Doleshwor Mahadeva Temple

Temples & religious sites

Doleshwor Mahadeva Temple

Doleshwor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Suryabinayak southeast of Bhaktapur. It is known as a pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.

3.8 km away

Changu Narayan Temple

Temples & religious sites

Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan Temple sits atop a hill in Bhaktapur and, built in the 4th century, is considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal. Dedicated to Vishnu, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

4.9 km away

Kailashnath Mahadev Statue

Heritage & monuments

Kailashnath Mahadev Statue

The Kailashnath Mahadev Statue in Suryabinayak, Bhaktapur, is known as the tallest Shiva statue in the world. It's about 20 km from Kathmandu, making it an easy day trip from the city.

5.4 km away