Discover the Three Durbar Squares of Kathmandu Valley
The Kathmandu Valley, a melting pot of culture, history, and heritage, is home to three monumental Durbar Squares — Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. These squares once served as the political, cultural, and religious heart of the kingdom and now stand as living testaments to Nepal’s ancient royal heritage. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites represent a fascinating blend of art, architecture, and tradition.
In this blog, we take a deep dive into the history of these iconic Durbar Squares, explore their royal legacies, and uncover the unique legends that surround these sacred grounds.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: The Pulse of the Malla Kings
Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Basantapur Durbar Square, is the epicenter of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Steeped in centuries of history, it was the residence and working hub of the Malla Kings, who ruled the Kathmandu Valley from the 12th to the 18th century.
History:
Kathmandu Durbar Square’s history stretches back to the early Malla Dynasty (12th-18th century), with key structures built over several centuries. The square is home to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, where the Malla kings resided and ruled. The name Hanuman Dhoka comes from the statue of Hanuman (the Hindu god of strength) placed at the entrance. This palace, originally built in the 16th century, underwent multiple expansions, and the square itself became the political epicenter of the kingdom.
The square houses numerous significant monuments, including the Kumari Ghar, the residence of the living goddess Kumari, and Kasthamandap, a wooden pagoda-like structure that is said to have been constructed from a single tree. It is believed that Kasthamandap was the place where the city of Kathmandu was founded, according to ancient Newar mythology.
Royal Significance:
Kathmandu Durbar Square once played host to royal ceremonies, festivals, and the crowning of kings. The Malla Kings who ruled Kathmandu oversaw a golden era of architecture, art, and culture that greatly influenced the cultural landscape of Nepal.
Today:
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a living museum, showcasing royal artifacts, art, and culture. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace is now a museum, and visitors can explore its courtyards, marvel at the intricate wood carvings, and visit the sacred Kumari Ghar. The square is a bustling hub, drawing tourists and locals alike, offering a window into the heart of Nepal’s royal past.
Patan Durbar Square: A Legacy of Newar Art and Architecture
Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Lalitpur (Patan), just south of Kathmandu, is renowned for its exceptional Newar architecture. Unlike the other Durbar Squares, Patan was known for its more peaceful and artistic royal legacy.
History:
Patan Durbar Square’s roots date back to ancient times, and it was the capital of the Malla Kingdom until the unification of Nepal in the 18th century. The square is an architectural marvel, featuring stunning Newar architecture with intricately carved wooden windows and pillars. The Royal Palace in Patan, though smaller than that of Kathmandu, boasts an extensive courtyard with temples and shrines that date back to the 16th century.
The most significant structure in the square is the Mahabouddha Temple, which represents a stunning fusion of Buddhist and Hindu religious art. Patan Durbar Square is also home to the Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, a Buddhist monastery renowned for its stunning golden structure. The influence of Buddhism and Hinduism is apparent in the temple complexes and the grandeur of the palace.
Royal Significance:
The Malla kings of Patan were patrons of the arts, contributing greatly to the preservation and promotion of Nepali art, sculpture, and architecture. The square houses a number of temples dedicated to Hindu deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Buddha, and the royal palace complex was a center of administrative, religious, and social activity.
Today:
Patan Durbar Square has retained its charm, with the Patan Museum now housed in the old royal palace. The museum showcases exquisite pieces of Nepalese art, sculptures, and relics from Nepal’s royal history. The square remains a cultural center for Newar festivals, dances, and cultural performances, making it one of the most vibrant and artistic places to visit in the Kathmandu Valley.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square: The Royal City of Temples
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, is a marvel of medieval Nepali architecture. Known as the “City of Devotees,” Bhaktapur is famous for its rich cultural heritage and well-preserved medieval architecture. The Durbar Square is the historical center of Bhaktapur, once a prosperous kingdom.
History:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, established in the 12th century, reached its zenith during the reign of the Malla Kings in the 15th century. The square is famous for the 55-Window Palace, named after its intricate set of windows, and the Vatsala Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Vatsala. The 55-Window Palace served as the residence of Bhaktapur’s kings and was a symbol of the city’s grandeur.
Royal Significance:
The Malla kings of Bhaktapur played a vital role in advancing the city’s religious and architectural traditions. The kings commissioned the construction of temples, shrines, and palaces that reflected their devotion to Hindu deities, particularly Shiva, Durga, and Vishnu. Bhaktapur Durbar Square also became a hub of art and culture, with many painters, sculptors, and woodcarvers contributing to the square’s artistic legacy.
Today:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it remains one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world. The Bhaktapur Durbar Museum allows visitors to explore royal artifacts, sculptures, and paintings that once adorned the palace. The square is also known for its festivals and celebrations, especially the famous Biska Jatra, a vibrant procession in honor of the god Bhadrakali.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Kathmandu Valley’s Durbar Squares
The three Durbar Squares of the Kathmandu Valley — Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square — each offer a unique insight into Nepal’s royal, cultural, and spiritual history. From the architectural wonders of the Malla Dynasty to the rich religious and artistic traditions, these squares stand as testaments to Nepal’s glorious past.
Today, these squares continue to captivate visitors with their rich history, artistic excellence, and cultural vibrancy. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or someone who simply enjoys exploring new cultures, these Durbar Squares offer a deep connection to the past and present of Nepal’s majestic history.
Visiting the Kathmandu Valley’s Durbar Squares is like stepping into a living museum where the stories of the past are still very much alive — through the monuments, the temples, and the legacy of the Malla kings who once ruled this historic land.
Book Your Trip with Us and Experience the Rich History of Kathmandu Valley’s Durbar Squares!
Embark on a journey through time and explore the majestic Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square with Mountain Hike Nepal. Let us take you on a guided tour to these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history, fascinating legends, and architectural wonders that define the heart of Nepal.
Why Book with Us?
- Expert Guides: Our experienced English-speaking guides will provide you with insightful stories and history behind each monument.
- Convenient Transportation: Travel in comfort with our modern fleet of vehicles, ensuring you a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Customizable Tours: Tailored tours based on your preferences and schedule. Whether you want a quick visit or a more in-depth exploration, we have options for everyone.
- Stress-Free Booking: Our team will handle all the logistics, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy your journey.
Join us for a cultural and historical experience that you will cherish forever. Book your tour today with Mountain Hike Nepal and step into the world of ancient kings and timeless traditions.
