Bhaktapur formerly was a princely state ruled by the Malla Kingdom of Nepal, until it was invaded and annexed by Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1744 during his initial unification campaign. Today, it remains one of the major cities in Nepal and a popular tourist destination.
Overview
Bhaktapur or Bhadgaun is an ancient Newari city located 12 km east of Kathmandu. One of the 3 former princely states of Kathmandu valley, Bhaktapur is also known to be the largest among them.
Due to the historical and archaeological importance of the place, it was enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Newar tribe of people remain the predominant inhabitants of the city. The local architecture and culture signifies that of contemporary Newari art and lifestyle.
The city was hugely damaged by the major earthquake of 2015, along with the tourist site of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Most of the monuments in the durbar square has been renovated or are in the process.
History
Founded in the 12th century by Ananda Malla, Bhaktapur was the capital city of the Greater Malla Kingdom until the 15th century and was an independent kingdom from then until the 18th century. The Newari art, cuisine and lifestyle flourished under the Malla regime. The popular religious and public festivals were birthed during the hey day of Bhaktapur. The individual rulers of Lalitpur and Kathmandu city belonged to the same Malla clan and were siblings.
Ranjit Malla was the last king of Bhaktapur. He was a close friend and aide of Prithvi Narayan Shah. The latter invaded and annexed the city during his initial conquest of the entire Kathmandu valley. Afterwards, it came to be known as one of the districts of the unified Nepal.
The most popular delicacy of Kathmandu, Ju Ju Dhau (Curd) was introduced in Bhaktapur.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The former royal complex at the center of Bhaktapur district is known as the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Consisting of a palace, courtyards, historic monuments and numerous temples, the whole complex, along with Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square, were included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
After Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur is the 2nd most visited tourist destination. it suffered a huge loss during the major earthquake of 2015. The renovations have started and going well lately.
Tourist Attractions
- 55 Windowed Palace -It is a former royal palace of the Malla Kings. It has a total of 55 windows, hence the name 55 Windowed Palace. Today, it serves as the art museum for the tourists.
- Golden Gate -A major gate of the palace is entirely made out of gold. It lies just in front of the 55 Windowed palace and acts the main entry point.
- Lion’s Gate -According to the legend, “This magnificent gate was produced from artisans whose hands were cut off after finishing touch to them by the envious king so that no more of such masterpieces could be produced again.” Today, it serves as one of the major entry points for the durbar square.
- Mini Pashupati Temple -Similar to the Pashupatinath temple of Kathmandu, the Mini Pashupati temple is a major attraction of Bhaktapur
- Nyatapola Temple -A 5 storied temple, it is located inside the Durbar Square premise, and is one of the major attractions of the area. Despite the huge earthquake in 2015, the temple still stands strong.
- Bhairav Nath Temple -Dedicated to the God of Terror and Death, Bhairava, it is another major tourist destination. It holds importance among the locals; and devotees sacrifice animal at the temple premise every year.
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