Bhaktapur is a very old town located in the east of Kathmandu in the Valley of Kathmandu. First settled during the 8th century A.D., the Kathmandu valley has been composed of 3 royal cities, Patan, Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, each of them having its unique qualities and features. The word ‘Bhaktapur’ is a Sanskrit term which means ‘the city of devotees. The kings of Bhaktapur ruled over Patan and Kathmandu from the 12th to the 14th centuries.
A 1934 massive earthquake damaged the city of Bhaktapur badly and a large number of monasteries, temples and residences were demolished. Yet the remaining ancient buildings and temples are the testimonials of the marvelous craftsmanship skills of the city. The craftsmen of Bhaktapur also include a king, the King Bhupatindra Malla, who constructed the gate to the complex of the palace in the centre of the city. He resigned the city from 1696 to 1722. When we compare the gate with today’s structures, it may not look as massive, but at one time, it was one of the largest and hugest in the valley of Kathmandu.
Those who are planning to visit the city of Bhaktapur should not forget the name of Palace of 55 windows on their must-see lists. This palace housed many different kings, and it is this palace in which the King Bhupatindra Malla used to live. Other attractions that the visitors would like to see include the golden gate, the big bell, the Bhairab Temple, the 5-tiered temple at Nyatapola and Dattatreya Square where they will be visiting metal work and wood carving museums.
Anybody who is going for a trek in Nepal, they will have to at least spend a whole day visiting each city in the valley of Kathmandu. Breaking up to Patan and Bhaktapur is an excellent choice before heading out to the trek. Your trip will not be complete without a tasting Khopa Dhau, the home-made curd of Bhaktapur.
