Ancient Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square Tour

The Ancient Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy Nepal’s captivating cultural heritage. Spanning five hours, this guided experience grants exclusive access to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing the intricate woodcarvings and medieval architecture of Bhaktapur and the renowned Newari craftsmanship of Patan. With an insightful local guide, visitors can witness traditional artisanal practices and explore the vibrant local culture. Those seeking to delve deeper into Nepal’s remarkable history and uncover the stories behind these remarkable landmarks won’t want to miss this enriching opportunity.

Key Points

• This guided tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square, featuring exquisite Newari architecture and cultural heritage.
• Pricing starts at ₹1,745 per person for a 5-hour tour, including pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
• The tour highlights the historical significance of these sites, such as the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the Golden Temple.
• Visitors can witness traditional wood carving, pottery making, and observe local Buddhist practices during the culture experience.
• The tour includes transportation, a guided exploration of the sites, and complimentary water, with options to book and cancel the tour online.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square.

Priced from ₹1,745 per person, the 5-hour tour includes pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

Visitors can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. For added convenience, a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option is available.

The tour’s itinerary covers the historical plazas, showcasing exquisite architecture, intricate artwork, and medieval structures like the 55-Window Palace and Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur, as well as the renowned Newari craftsmanship in Patan.

Heritage Significance

Both Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square hold immense heritage significance, as they’re UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in Nepal.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square dates back to the 12th century and was once the royal palace of the Malla kings. It’s renowned for its exquisite woodcarvings, intricate artwork, and medieval architecture, including the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairava Nath Temple, and the Golden Gate.

Patan Durbar Square, on the other hand, is celebrated for its stunning architecture showcasing Newari craftsmanship. Key attractions include the Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, and the magnificent Golden Temple.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square dates back to the 12th century, serving as the royal palace of the Malla kings. This historical plaza is renowned for its exquisite woodcarvings, intricate artwork, and medieval architecture. Notable structures within the square include the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairava Nath Temple, and the Golden Gate.

Architectural Highlight	Description
55-Window Palace	Ornate royal residence displaying Newari craftsmanship
Nyatapola Temple	Five-story pagoda temple, the tallest in Nepal
Bhairava Nath Temple	Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Bhairava
Golden Gate	Elaborately carved entrance to the Taleju Temple
Peacock Window	Masterpiece of Newari woodcarving art

Visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage and witness the local traditions that have been preserved in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is renowned for its stunning architecture that showcases the exceptional Newari craftsmanship.

It’s a must-visit destination for those interested in Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Notable attractions within the square include:

• Krishna Mandir, a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Krishna
• Bhimsen Temple, an impressive example of Newari architectural style
• Golden Temple, a three-tiered pagoda temple covered in gold leaf
• Patan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Nepali art and artifacts
• Kumari Chok, the residence of the Kumari, a living goddess revered in the Newari community.

Visitors can explore the square, witness local traditions, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Patan.

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Itinerary and Transportation

The tour typically begins with a car ride from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which takes approximately 1 hour. Once there, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour guided tour of the historical site. The journey then continues to Patan Durbar Square, approximately a 40-minute drive away. Visitors spend another 1.5 hours exploring the stunning Newari architecture under the guidance of the tour leader. Finally, the group returns to Kathmandu, a 30-minute drive.

Pickup Location	Travel Duration
Kathmandu	1 hour
Bhaktapur	1.5 hours
Patan	1.5 hours
Kathmandu	30 minutes

Cultural Experiences

Beyond the architectural wonders of Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Squares, the tour offers immersive cultural experiences.

Visitors can:

• Witness the intricate process of wood carving and pottery making, gaining insights into the region’s rich artisanal traditions.

• Observe local Buddhist practices at temples and shrines, including the veneration of the Kumari, the "Living Goddess" of Nepal.

• Explore the vibrant local markets, indulging in the flavors of Nepali cuisine and interacting with friendly vendors.

• Learn about the unique Newari culture, which has shaped the architectural and artistic heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.

• Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s religious syncretism, where Hindu and Buddhist beliefs coexist harmoniously.

Inclusions

This tour includes a well-English-speaking guide to accompany visitors throughout the journey. The guide will provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Transportation is provided via private car, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. Visitors will also receive a complimentary bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.

Plus, the tour package covers government taxes and tips for the guide and driver, ensuring a hassle-free experience. However, entrance fees to Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Squares, as well as any food and beverages, aren’t included in the tour price.

Booking and Cancelation

Booking this tour is simple and straightforward. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

Some key details about booking and cancelation include:

• Tour can be booked online or by contacting the tour provider directly.
• A deposit is required to secure the booking, with the remaining balance due before the tour date.
• Cancelations made within 24 hours of the tour are subject to a 100% cancelation fee.
• Rescheduling the tour is also possible, subject to availability and any applicable fees.
• Travelers are encouraged to review the provider’s terms and conditions prior to booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 4 or More?

Yes, you can book this tour for a group of 4 or more. The tour allows for group bookings, and the price per person is likely to decrease with a larger group size.

How Long Does It Take to Explore Each Durbar Square?

The tour allocates 1.5 hours to explore each durbar square, Bhaktapur and Patan. This allows visitors sufficient time to witness the exquisite architecture, intricate artwork, and local cultural practices at these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Recommendations for the Tour?

The tour does not have any specific dietary restrictions or recommendations. Participants can explore local Nepali cuisine during the cultural experiences, but bringing any preferred snacks or beverages is at the discretion of the individual.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Heritage Sites?

Visitors can generally take photographs inside the heritage sites on this tour, but they should be mindful of any restrictions or rules regarding photography. It’s best to check with the tour guide for guidance on appropriate photography during the visits.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing for the Tour?

You don’t need any special equipment or clothing for the tour. Comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable attire are recommended to explore the heritage sites comfortably.

Recap

The Ancient Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Explore the exquisite medieval architecture, witness traditional artisanal practices, and discover the vibrant local culture of these UNESCO World Heritage sites. With insights from a knowledgeable guide, this five-hour tour promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for history and culture enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: