Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu : A Treasure of Nepalese Heritage

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu : A Treasure of Nepalese Heritage 

  Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu (Nepal)

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu : A Treasure of Nepalese Heritage 

Radha Krishna Temple, Bhaktapur (Nepal)

Sculpture along the steps of Siddhi Lakshmi Temple

55 Window Palace

Perspective View of Heritage Complex, Bhaktapur

Recently we got opportunity to visit Kathmandu, the beautiful capital city of Nepal. We entered Nepal through border towns Raxaul (India) and Birganj (Nepal). A small airport at Simara (Birganj) is serving air connectivity between Birganj and Kathmandu. The low flying Yeti Airlines flight provided picturesque view of Kathmandu valley from a height of about 10,000 feet. As soon as we landed at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, the Terminal Building with exposed brick work on exterior along with backdrop of beautiful Kathmandu valley welcomed us. About 30 minutes flight from Simara to Kathmandu Airport is very interesting.

Pashupatinath Temple at Kathmandu : Abode of Lord Shiva

·       Kathmandu is mainly famous for the Pashupatinath Temple, the abode of Lord Shiva, is a World Heritage Site and located nearby the airport. The temple complex houses various shrines, small temples, intricately carved door panels, 108 Shivalinga enclosure, etc. Lord Shiva is believed to be in the form of Pashupati, the protector of animals, at the sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha) of main temple. A colossal statue of Nandi, the carrier of Lord Shiva, is seated just in front of main temple. The pious river Bagmati flows behind the temple complex. As photography is not allowed inside temple complex, some photos clicked from outside the temple are displayed here. A visit to the most sacred site in Nepal, the Pashupatinath Temple, fills one with divine peace, sheer tranquility and spiritual bliss.

 Bhaktapur Durbar Square: The Heritage Complex

Bhaktapur is a small town located about 15 Km away from Kathmandu. The medieval period Durbar Square at Bhaktapur comprises of a number of temples, sculptures, museums, palaces, mandaps etc.These architectural marvels representing specimen of Nepalese art and architecture. Due to its historical, cultural and unique architectural style, Bhaktapur Durbar Square declared as the World Heritage Site in 1979. The famous monuments are as mentioned below:

·       55 Window Palace

·       Vatsala Durga Temple

·       Radha Krishna Temple

·       Yakshyashwor Temple (Pashupatinath Temple)_

·       Chyasilin Mandap ( Octagonal Pavilion)

·       Siddhi Lakshmi Temple

·       Changu Narayana Temple

·       Statue of king Bhupatindra Malla

·       National Art Museum

·       Char dham – Badrinath Temple

·       Lion’s Gate

·       Shilu Mahadeva Temple

·       Taleju Bell (Big ritual bell)

·       One can witness the magnificent architectural style representing different phases of its development. A visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square is mesmerizing and satisfying.

·       Accommodation: The best place to stay at Kathmandu is ‘Godavari Village Resort’ located on outskirt of the city. Nestled in eco-friendly environment, properly maintained and providing pleasing hospitality – stay at this resort is a memorable experience.

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