Things To Do
in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, Nepal, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning medieval architecture. It is one of the three royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley and is famous for its well-preserved temples, ancient squares, and traditional craftsmanship. The city, with its vibrant local life, offers visitors a glimpse into the Newar culture and traditions.
Bhaktapur is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Nepal.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, admiring the 55-Window Palace and the Vatsala Temple. Don't miss the chance to capture the intricate wood carvings and stone sculptures.
Visit the Pottery Square to see local artisans at work and try your hand at making pottery. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.
As the sun sets, head to the Nyatapola Temple, the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal, for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding hills.
Start your day at the National Art Gallery, exploring its vast collection of art and artifacts. Afterward, stroll through the ancient streets of Bhaktapur, observing daily life.
Take a short hike to the nearby Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in the valley, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Newari restaurant, sampling local delicacies while enjoying traditional music and dance performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $10-20 |
| 🚕Taxi Ride (within city) | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir | $2-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Less crowded than Kathmandu, providing a more relaxed atmosphere
- Delicious local cuisine with unique dishes
- Limited nightlife options
- Some areas may be challenging to navigate due to uneven terrain
- Public transport options are scarce
- "नमस्ते" - Hello
- "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
- "कसरी हुनुहुन्छ?" - How are you?
- "मलाई खानी चाहिन्छ" - I want to eat
- "कहाँ छ ...?" - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Bhaktapur
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of Bhaktapur, featuring stunning architecture, temples, and bustling local life. A perfect spot for capturing the essence of the city.
This five-story pagoda offers a panoramic view of Bhaktapur and the surrounding hills, especially beautiful during sunset.
An excellent location to photograph local artisans at work, surrounded by colorful pottery and vibrant market scenes.
Food in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, creamy yogurt known as 'king curd', famous for its taste and texture.
Must-Try!
Nepalese dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with spicy dipping sauce.
A traditional sweet dumpling made from rice flour, filled with jaggery and coconut.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Various stalls offering street food including samosas, chatamari, and local snacks.
A lively area where you can find local vendors selling quick bites and traditional sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always remove shoes before entering temples and respect local customs while taking photographs.
A traditional greeting in Nepal is 'Namaste', which involves placing your palms together and bowing your head.
Visitors should dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Bhaktapur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for guides, usually 10% of the bill is standard.
Cash is commonly used, especially in smaller shops; ATMs are available, but credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring outdoor sites and festivals, including the famous Biska Jatra.
Expect heavy rains and muddy streets; it's less crowded but can be challenging for outdoor activities.
Clear skies and mild temperatures make this the best time for sightseeing and enjoying the local festivals.
Cool temperatures can be brisk, but the city is less crowded. Dress warmly for evening outings.
Bhaktapur at Night
Hiking in Bhaktapur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley, taking approximately 3-4 hours.
This moderate hike leads from the ancient Changu Narayan Temple back to Bhaktapur, showcasing beautiful scenery and local villages.
Airports
How to reach Bhaktapur by plane.
Located approximately 12 km from Bhaktapur, this is the main international airport in Nepal, providing connectivity to various domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous ethnic group of the Kathmandu Valley, known for their rich cultural traditions and craftsmanship.
A group residing in the southern part of Nepal, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a major sport in Bhaktapur, with local teams often competing in tournaments.
Archery holds cultural significance and is practiced during festivals and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bhaktapur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes are vegetarian, but it's advisable to ask if meat is included.
Gluten-free options may be limited, so communicate dietary restrictions clearly.