Literally translates to ‘Place of devotees,’ Bhaktapur, is a small town located less than an hour away from the giant, chaotic capital of Kathmandu. The whole town is like a living museum, with temples on every corner, bustling street markets and arts and crafts being produced wherever you turn.

Handicraft stalls in Bhaktapur

The ancient city centre is car-free, making walking its cobbled streets very pleasant indeed.  A few minutes’ walk into the temple complex and you know you have entered a time capsule where history lives and breathes at every alley.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur has been accredited as a UNESCO world heritage site, one of the seven such UNESCO heritage monuments from Kathmandu valley.

Sage with long hair and beard is a common sight in Bhaktapur

One of the most striking examples of architecture in Bhaktapur is Bhairabnath Temple, unmissable due to its soaring three-tier roof.  Temple is dedicated to Bhairab, the fearsome incarnation of Shiva, whose consort occupies the Nyatapola Temple across the square.

Beautiful carvings on the walls of Bhairabnath Temple

The beauty of Bhaktapur must have inspired the local people because the city is now home to a whole host of unique arts and crafts. Bhaktapur is also home to Nepal’s National Art Gallery. Showcasing an impressive collection of paintings and traditional artefacts from the nation’s past.

Paintings on craft shops of Bhaktapur

There is much to see in Bhaktapur, wander around and soak up the unique atmosphere. While Kathmandu can feel overcrowded and chaotic, Bhaktapur is much quieter and more relaxed.

Also read: Garden of dreams: An idyllic escape in Kathmandu