Nepal: Day Trip to Bhaktapur
The Kathmandu valley is like a conduit for all of Nepal. Here visitors will find a virtual melting pot of cultures from all over the country. Originally, the valley was divided into three kingdoms, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. These three cities have fused together bringing the valley a rich assortment of temples, bazaars, artisans and their wares. A day trip to each just scratches the surface on the wealth of what visitors have on hand to explore and enjoy.
The city of Bhaktapur just may be the most impressive of the three. Located just 14 kilometers from of Kathmandu — Nepal’s capital city — “Bhakta” means one-who-worships and “pur” means place. Now known as the “City of Devotees“, Bhaktapur is renowned around the world for its art and architecture. It is a city steeped in culture. The city was founded by King Anand Dev Malla in the 12th century.
The local residents here are known for having remained true to their faith, hence the city’s knick-name. The townspeople of Bhaktapur have taken great pains to see that it’s storied past has been left intact. Local industries include hand made pieces of traditional pottery and weaving. Bahaktapur is equally renowned for its woodcarving.
In Bhaktapur’s Taumadhi town square, you can still see the city’s five-story pagoda, with all its original beauty, intricately covered with woodcarving and sculpture. The architecture is typical medieval Nepalese, rising high and with a number of levels. At the time it was built, it was believed that temples should be the highest building in a town or city with surrounding buildings much lower.
The pagoda is one of the few historical landmarks in Bhaktapur that was not damaged during a devastating earthquake in 1934.
Buses leave daily for to Bhaktapur from Katmandu. Check the links on Nepal.com for points-of-contact on travel and tour packages and accommodations in Bhaktapur and the local area.
