Best Things to do in Bhaktapur: Where to Go & What to Eat

Bhaktapur should be on your go-to list if you want to travel to Nepal. A city so rich in cultural heritage and ancient art is bound to blow your mind away. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that the medieval architecture, wood sculptures, and cultural relics surrounding the city will hook any visitors roaming the streets of Bhaktapur.

Historically, Bhaktapur was the land of the Malla dynasty, seeing the rise of several kings throughout, including Bhupatindra Malla. The man alone contributed to the giant Nyatapola temple and 55-Window Palace (the most popular tourist spot). The city is about cultural beauty and several more scenic spots, cafes, local eateries, food vendors, etc. So, not just sightseeing, tourists can enjoy hiking, participating in local traditions, and long tours. Now, are you interested in learning about some of the best things to do in Bhaktapur!!

Also Read:

• Best Things To Do in Pokhara
• Best Things To Do in Kathmandu
• The Ultimate Guide for Things to do in Bhutan

Visit Nyatapola Temple

We are starting our list with the gorgeous Nyatapola temple, a 33-meter-high temple seen from most of the areas in Bhaktapur. Also renowned as the five-storied temple and Panch Tale Mandir, Nyatapola symbolizes the Pagoda architecture style first introduced in the 7th century. Nepal has a lot of shrines built in pagoda style, but they hardly hold a candle compared to the gigantic Nyatapola temple.

Visitors have to visit the temple while traveling in Bhaktapur. The temple’s five stories represent air, sky, water, fire, and earth. This is a Hindu shrine housing the tantric goddess Siddhi Laxmi.

Another fact a visitor might notice is the abundance of cultural beliefs, superstitions, and an absolute trust in gods and goddesses among Nepalese people. As such, there is a belief that Siddhi Laxmi is the mother deity of Newars, a dominant ethnic community in Bhaktapur.

As mentioned, King Bhupatindra Malla established the temple in 822 Nepal Sambad (1702 AD). It was fascinating that it only took 214 days to build the gigantic structure with only 11,35,350 bricks.

Moreover, an urban legend is that the Nyatapola was built without a single nail. This alone has made it a fascinating research topic among architects.

Visitors will see two stone statues at the bottom of the stairs leading to the temple’s entrance. They are guardians of the temple. Above them are sets of elephants, Singhas (Lions), Griffin-like creatures, and Tantric gods, Simhani and Vyaghrani.

Unfortunately, visitors and outsiders cannot enter the temple, as it is only open to the priest. Nonetheless, they can see the statues of Siddhi Laxmi carved from wood outside the temple. Also, it is very enjoyable to breathe in the fresh air and admire the view from the pedestals of Nyatapola.

• Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
• Opening Hours: 24 Hours
• Entry Fee: US $18, included in Bhaktapur Durbar Square Entry Package

Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Another famous place in Bhaktapur is the iconic 55-Window Palace, Pachpannajhyale Durbar. Yes, as its name suggests, the palace has fifty-five windows carved from wood, reflecting the architecture of the Malla dynasty.

Unlike Nyatapola, the 55-Window Palace took fifty-eight years to be completed. Unfortunately, during the 1934 Earthquake in Nepal, it was demolished. Thankfully, the temple was remodeled, although it looked slightly different from its original shape. It also received some damage after the earthquake in 2015 but has been restored.

Listed in the World Heritage Site, the palace has wood-carved windows and doors from the ground floor to the top. It houses ancient paintings of Malla Kings, Hindu gods sculptures, Asta Bhairava wood carvings, and more.

Aside from the palace, Bhaktapur Durbar Square’s vicinity includes the Golden Gate, Badrinath Temple, Jagannath Temple, Rameshwor Temple, Radhakrishna Temple, Kedarnath Temple, The National Art Museum, Taleju Temple, King Bhupatindra Malla Statue, and more.

Wow, is it a lot to take in? These temples are built around one another, forming a large courtyard. Visitors can take photos, make vlogs, interact with locals, and make great memories there.

• Address: Durbar Square, Bhaktapur
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 5:30 PM
• Entry Fee: US $18

Try Out Local Delicacies Of Bhaktapur

Is traveling ever complete without having delicious food? Of course not; enjoying local delicacies is on almost every traveler’s to-do list. To those visiting Bhaktapur, no worries. We have many food items, including menus for vegetarians, vegans, and non-vegetarians.

Bhaktapur is a tourist spot with numerous cafes, diners, restaurants, and eateries that provide local and global cuisines. Aside from them, local food shops offer traditional local food, which will whet your appetite.

The first thing that a Bhakatapurian will immediately recommend is Newari cuisine. This is not just a single food item; it comprises lots of Newari delicacies that will not taste the same as they do here.

Newari cuisine predominantly suits non-vegetarians, as it has more meat items than veggies. Newari cuisine’s Choila is quite popular in Bhaktapur. It is a grilled meat item (chicken, mutton, buffalo, and pork) that is marinated using chilies and spices before being grilled. It is the perfect combination of spicy, crunchy, and tender meat.

Another local favorite is Kachilaa, which is made from minced Buff meat. The making process involves mixing raw minced meat, coriander, red chili, garlic, and salt, finished by pouring hot oil. Another Newari popular delicacy is Sekuwa, a barbecued meat item.

If vegetarian visitors feel left out, don’t worry; we have Newari pancakes called Bara. It is made of black lentils and is available with eggs and minced meat. There is aalu tama, a stew made from bamboo shoots and potatoes. It is a perfect combo of health and taste.

These delicacies are found around the Durbar Square and Nyatapola sites. Popular eateries around the area are Newa Lahana Khwopa, The Choila Specialist, and Aama ko Bara Pasal. These eateries provide good food and are budget-friendly.

Try Out King Curd

Curd also belongs to the food category; however, Bhaktapur’s King Curd is so good that it deserves a special mention. Juju Dhau, aka King of Curd, is a sweet, creamy milk item that melts on one’s tongue. Yum!

Including buffalo milk as a main ingredient, Juju Dhau comes in matka, i.e., a small clay pot. This Bhaktapur’s local specialty is even taken as a souvenir while visiting relatives.

Moreover, two types of curd are available: regular curd and Juju Dhau. The latter costs a bit more than the regular one. Also, it is hard to find the original Juju Dhau away from the center of Bhaktapur.

Now, imagine drinking a cold Juju Dhau on the sunny days of Bhaktapur. The thought alone gives a refreshing feeling. Unfortunately, there are no vegan options available regarding King Curd.

Boating In Siddha Pokhari

Bhaktapur has more ponds than one can imagine. Reportedly, the city has thirty-four protected ponds out of fifty ponds. As per the residents, the district had more ponds before.

Siddha Pokhari is the most popular, just a few meters from Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Located behind Bhaktapur Hospital, Dudhpati, Siddha Pokhari is also a dating spot. Lovers can enjoy boating on the pond while enjoying the scenery.

Although boating was introduced recently, it has become a to-do at Siddha Pokhari. There are also small vendors selling fish foods for visitors. Visiting Siddha Pokhari provides a calm, serene, and peaceful experience.

• Address: Dudhpati, Behind Bhaktapur Hospital, Bhaktapur
• Opening Hours: Closes At 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Not Required

Go For A Hike In Nagarkot

Not everyone likes to travel similarly; while some might like strolling and sightseeing, others might enjoy trekking and hiking. This is the true beauty of traveling, getting to experience new things, and being exposed to new challenges.

For hiking lovers, Bhaktapur boasts a 14km long hiking trail to Nagarkot. The hiking route takes around 3-4 hours of walking.

There are several routes to the Nagarkot hiking trip. The first one starts from Changu Narayan temple. It allows travelers a perfect sunrise view early in the morning before setting for climbing upwards.

The second option is a journey from Sundarijal, Chisapani. This is a comparatively longer route, and visitors must prepare for a one-night trip if choosing this route. Travelers often spend the first night in Chisapani before setting off for Nagarkot the next day.

Another route is from Shankhu to Nagarkot hilltop, which takes three or more hours. Nagarkot Hilltop provides a panoramic sunset view over the Himalayas, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountains. The 3-4-hour long hiking trip is undoubtedly worth the view at the top.

Nagarkot is full of visitors during the Winter season as there are often chances of snowfall in the region. Aside from sightseeing, Nagarkot is a picnic spot for local people. It houses some of the best hotels and resorts with several price ranges.

Among several companies, Viator provides tour packages for Nagarkot hiking from Kathmandu.

• Nagarkot to Changunarayan Hike with Transfers from Kathmandu (viator.com)
• Nagarkot Sunrise View and Changunarayan Day Hike from Kathmandu (viator.com)
• Nagarkot Sunrise View and Day Hiking from Kathmandu (viator.com)

Participate In Local Festivals

Bhaktapur is rich in cultural heritage and is famous for its extravagant festivals and celebrations. The Newari community, a prominent ethnic community in Bhaktapur, celebrates many festivals yearly. A visitor will see a group of people playing traditional musical instruments and roaming the streets of Bhaktapur almost every other day.

The Newari community’s famous festival is Bisket Jatra, a 9-day and 8-night festival that usually falls in mid-April annually. It is one of the craziest celebrations, considering the involvement of many people and the extravagant way of celebrating.

During the nine days of celebration, Newar people worship several deities and goddesses, offering five delicacies: meat, rice wine, fish, boiled egg, and lentil cake. The most surprising thing for visitors is likely the chariot-pulling during the event’s first and last day.

Thousands of people from two sides pull a single chariot, a.k .a. lingo. The side that wins the tug of war will determine whether the chariot will be taken to Golmadhi or Naasamanaa. It is so crazy that yearly, there are several injured people and, in some cases, dead in case the lingo falls.

Visitors can participate in this tradition, although the risks are high. There is also a tongue-piercing ceremony during the Bisket Jatra, which will fascinate many.

Bisket Jatra, Sindoor Jatra, Gai Jatra, Indra Jatra, and Gathamaga Charya allow outsiders to participate and enjoy. Nepalese traditions are easy to follow and celebrate so that visitors can enjoy the country’s cultural beauty.

Make Potteries At Pottery Square

Besides wood sculpture, Bhaktapur boasts impressive pottery art and handicrafts. The Pottery Square is situated within walking distance of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It is a hub for potters, some of whom have been doing pottery for decades.

Visitors will see Bhaktapur potters carving amazing shapes from clay through making, drying, and bisque firing. They primarily use the old wheel and firing process to create potteries. From cups and pots to creating priceless cutleries, these artisans are experts.

Travelers can try learning to make pottery at Pottery Square. Bhaktapur’s official site says pottery making costs Nepali Rs. 300 (2.26 USD) per person. The price might vary, although it is not a sky-high amount.

In conclusion, the trip to Pottery Square is a must-do experience while visiting Bhaktapur.

• Address: Bolachha Tole, Bhaktapur
• Pottery Learning Schools: The Pottery Learning Center

Explore Cafes In Bhaktapur

Coffee is perhaps the best part of waking up. And it tastes even better when accompanied by a nice view. Bhaktapur Durbar Square’s vicinity houses several cafes that face Nyatapola and other temples around the surrounding.

Let’s start with Beans, the Coffee Shop in Durbar Square. The cozy cafe serves delicious breakfasts, snacks, cakes, and pizzas alongside a perfect brew of coffee.

Another renowned cafe is New Cafe Nyatapola, a rooftop venue at Nyatapola Temple. Visitors can enjoy coffee and breakfast directly on the rooftop facing the Nyatapola temple. Thanks to the food’s quality, customer service, and affordable price, its popularity is increasing.

• Opening Hours: 08:00 AM To 08:00 PM
• Location: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
• Social Media: Official Facebook

So, would you like to have your morning coffee with a Nyatapola temple view?

Take an Evening Walk in Bhaktapur

If you think Bhaktapur is pretty during the day, wait till nighttime. The city looks gorgeous with twinkling lights and bustling of local people.

During the daytime, most people are busy with their schedules. However, they often roam markets with their families and friends during the evenings. It is a kind of way of bonding with their loved ones.

It’s enjoyable to take an evening walk around Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Visitors can try street food and delicacies during their walk. Also, the sunset view from Durbar Square is pretty good. Many visitors stay till evening to snap photos of the twilight.

Furthermore, during Bisket Jatras and other festivals, celebrations last till evening; often, priests do pujas during nighttime. So, going out during the evenings is not in vain.

Explore Other Cultural Heritages

Bhaktapur is a city of temples. Besides Nyatapola and 55-Window Palace, there are more temples in the city. For instance, Dattatraya, a mandala-styled temple, is another site that must be on visitors’ go-to lists.

Built during the Malla regime, it is the only shrine that worships Dattatreya. It is situated in Dattatreya Square, Tachupal Tole.

King Yaksha Malla built the temple in 1470 AD, but it wasn’t open to the public then. Following King Yaksha’s demise, the public entered the temple for the first time, and now it is open to all.

Furthermore, the interesting part of the temple is the erotic carvings on its walls. They are vivid and a stark contrast to the otherwise conservative Nepali society.

• Address: Dattatreya Square, Tachupal Tole
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 7 PM
• Entry Fee: Not Required

Visit Shrines At The Outskirts Of Bhaktapur

Outside the inner Bhaktapur city, several more shrines and religious places exist. For instance, Suryabinayak Ganesh Temple, located on the city’s Southern side, is where the sun’s first rays fell.

It houses the Hindu god Ganesh and has devotees lining up long during Tuesdays and Saturdays. It is also a popular picnic spot.

Other religious shrines include Doleshwor Mahadev temple, Pilot Baba Ashram, Bagh Bhairav Temple, Changu Narayan, Taleju Bhawani Temple, and more. Thanks to the abundance of temples, Bhaktapur is a haven for Pilgrims and tourists.

Finally, visitors have to go shopping during their Bhaktapur trip. They can buy little souvenirs, handicraft products, Nepali teas, clay products, traditional dresses, handmade garments, and many more. Leaving empty-handed is never an option for anyone visiting Bhaktapur.

All in all, Bhaktapur is a beautiful town with a timeless charm and rich cultural heritage. Each relic has its story to tell, and each tale is as old as the time itself.

Visitors traveling to Bhaktapur will have full schedules, visiting places, doing new things, and enjoying local delicacies. One thing is for sure: travelers won’t regret their trips and will have fun throughout.