Patan Durbar Square

Patan

- City of fine arts
-Three main courtyards

It is one of the three medieval cities in Kathmandu and a destination of fine arts has hundreds of fascinating Hindu and Buddhist monuments scattered in and around. Patan City is an enchanting mixture of palace buildings, artistic courtyards, and former palace complex. Most of the monuments are back to the medieval Malla period 15th to 17th century as the golden period of Nepalese art and architecture. Krishna Mandir- a stone temple of Lord Krishna with its 21 spires and bas-relief art depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana epics and surrounding Hindu and Buddhist temples. The main highlights are the Golden Gate and the Golden Window of the old Palace, the beautiful piece of traditional metal crafts, the famed Krishna temple with 21 golden pinnacles, the Royal bath of Sundari Chowk, a perfect piece of the classic work in stone, Royal Taleju temple, Vishwanath Temple and Char Narayan temple are the finest examples of the unique craftsmanship in wood; the temple of Bhimsen with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside plus many other shrines and sculptures scattered in and around the square.

Patan Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cultural Marvel

Patan Durbar Square is a historic and cultural complex located in the heart of Lalitpur, a city in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. It is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, the other two being in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. The term "Durbar Square" refers to a public square in front of the old royal palace where various ceremonies, festivals, and gatherings took place during the reign of the Malla kings, who ruled over the Kathmandu Valley before the unification of Nepal.

Historical Significance

Patan Durbar Square holds immense historical and cultural significance. It was once the palace of the Malla kings and served as the center of their kingdom. The square is home to numerous temples, shrines, and courtyards, showcasing the rich Newar architecture and craftsmanship of the time.

Architecture

The square is renowned for its well-preserved Newar architecture, characterized by intricately carved wooden windows, doors, and struts. The temples and buildings within the square are excellent examples of this style, with beautiful woodwork and detailed artwork.

Temples and Monuments

Patan Durbar Square is home to several stunning temples and monuments, including:

Krishna Mandir: This is one of the most famous temples in the square, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It features a three-story pagoda-style architecture with exquisite carvings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, the Hindu epic.

Mahabouddha Temple: Also known as the "Temple of a Thousand Buddhas," this unique temple is entirely made of terracotta bricks, each bearing an image of Buddha. It's an excellent example of Buddhist architecture.

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar: This Buddhist monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is adorned with intricate golden artwork and is a peaceful place for meditation and reflection.

Bhimsen Temple: Dedicated to the god Bhimsen also known as God of Business. This temple stands out with its artistic windows and carvings.

Patan Museum: Located adjacent to the Durbar Square, the Patan Museum is an essential stop for anyone visiting the area. It houses a remarkable collection of traditional Nepali art, including sculptures, paintings, and religious artifacts.

Cultural Events

The square remains a vibrant center for cultural activities and festivals, such as Indra Jatra and Rato Machhindranath Jatra, which are celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Patan Durbar Square, along with the Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.

Visiting Patan Durbar Square

Visiting Patan Durbar Square allows you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, explore its exquisite architecture, and learn about the history of the Kathmandu Valley. It's a must-visit destination for travelers interested in art, history, and architecture.

Tips for Visiting

• The best time to visit Patan Durbar Square is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant.
• The square is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
• There is an entrance fee to visit the square, which is payable at the gate.
• Be sure to dress respectfully when visiting the temples and shrines.
• Take your time to explore the square and appreciate its many architectural marvels.
• Don't forget to visit the Patan Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the Kathmandu Valley.