Exploring the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu
What's a Durbar?
Durbar means palace, and so the Durbar Squares are essentially palace areas where the royal family once resided, conducted their affairs, and built temples to their gods for all sorts of things, like wishing for a large family or praying after the loss of a loved one. These stunning temples dot the areas around the palace where the family would have lived. These temples span hundreds of years, and their architecture certainly shows that, with each temple being uniquely beautiful.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the heart of Kathmandu, is a sprawling complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples that date back to the 12th century. Explore the intricately carved wooden facades and visit the Kumari Ghar (the virgin's house) where the young, living goddess resides. For my birthday a few years ago, my friends arranged a private tour of the small, secret places around the Kathmandu Durbar. We had to literally duck under buildings to reach tiny, private courtyards. Come with Upaya Tours and see these hidden gems with me.
The Nepali Kumari, known as the Living Goddess, is a young girl believed to be the physical embodiment of the goddess Taleju. Chosen through an ancient selection process, she resides in the Kumari Ghar in Kathmandu Durbar Square and is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists until she reaches puberty.
Patan Durbar Square
A short drive away is my favorite, Patan Durbar Square, offering a slightly different experience. I have called Patan my home for four years, and its charm never ceases to amaze me, especially in the moonlight. Known for its artistic heritage, Patan is a treasure trove of fine craftsmanship. The square is adorned with stunning temples, including the Krishna Temple, which is said to be carved from one massive stone that came up from the ground one dark night. Folklore is fun! The renowned Patan Museum houses a collection of traditional crafts and artifacts, and sometimes local traditional bands and dancers perform in the gorgeous Palace Museum courtyard. Upaya Tours typically stays one or two nights in this spectacular and lesser-visited area of Kathmandu. You will stay in this fantastically preserved village, where unexpected activities always seem to pop up. If you have seen the film "The Little Buddha," staring Keanu Reeves you will recognized several places here.
Keanu Reeves is on set at Patan Durbar Square filming "The Little Buddha," dressed as Prince Siddhartha, with the ancient temples and intricate Newari architecture of Patan providing a rich cultural backdrop
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The third palace is Bhaktapur Durbar Square. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, Bhaktapur is famous for its pottery craft and offers yet another glimpse into the rich history of the Kathmandu Valley. Walking through Bhaktapur feels like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is serene, and the craftsmanship displayed in the temples and courtyards is truly awe-inspiring. I love wandering through the narrow streets, discovering hidden courtyards, jumping to avoid neighborhood-roaming chickens, and interacting with local artisans who have honed their skills over generations.
Handmade clay pots sit before the stunning medieval temples and traditional Newari buildings of Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Ready to explore the stunning Durbar Squares of Kathmandu with a personal guide? Book your cultural exploration adventure with Upaya Tours today! For more information, visit Upaya Tours or contact us at upayatours@gmail.com.
Let us guide you through the rich heritage of Kathmandu and create unforgettable memories.
