6 Interesting Facts You Need to Know About Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is the first planned city of Nepal and is one of the oldest urban settlements in the country. It is home to many historical sites that date back to more than three centuries. This UNESCO world heritage site has been continuing its revival process after being struck by a massive earthquake in 2015. The city hosts several interesting historical monuments, which can take you back in time given its rich culture and architecture. There are plenty of things to see, do, and experience in Bhaktapur city; also known as ‘City of Cultures’. If you are planning a trip there, then you should read these 6 interesting facts about Bhaktapur before going there:
What is the meaning of Bhaktapur?
Bhaktapur is the second largest city in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur means ‘Place of devotees’. The word Bhaktapur has two meanings. Bhakta means Devotion and Pur means Place. It is said that Bhaktapur got its name because it is a place where people were devoted to their religious activities. Bhaktapur lies in the eastern part of Kathmandu Valley at a distance of 13 km from Kathmandu and is a World Heritage Site. Bhaktapur is believed to be the oldest city in Nepal and was founded in the 10th century CE. In fact, it is the first planned city of the country. Bhaktapur is a very important place for the study of Nepalese history and culture. The city is also known as the City of Art and Culture. Bhaktapur is one of the finest examples of Newar Architecture. Newar people are the original inhabitants of Kathmandu Valley.
The glorious architectural heritage of Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is known for its beautiful Newar architecture—a blend of the indigenous and the Newar style of architecture. Built mostly in the 11th century AD, most of the buildings in Bhaktapur are made of brick and rubble masonry, with some being made of clay and timber. The architectural style of the local people of Kathmandu Valley is unique. The temples, houses, palaces, and walls of Bhaktapur are a combination of art, architecture, and culture. Some popular architectural attractions of Bhaktapur include the Golden Gate, Taleju Chowk,55 Windows Palace, Durbar Square Plaza, Bhairab Temple, Nyatapola Temple, and Siddha Pokhari. The most famous attraction in Bhaktapur is the World Heritage Site Durbar Square. This is a series of temples and palaces that is a must-visit for all tourists visiting the city. Some other important places to visit in Bhaktapur include the Pottery Square, Taumadhi Square and Dattatraya Square along with the museum , core city and the local activities, and best time to visit while Jatra and festivals occurs.
Why visit Bhaktapur?
Bhaktapur is an important cultural and UNESCO world heritage site in Nepal. Bhaktapur is a perfect place to understand the culture, tradition, and history of Nepal. In Bhaktapur, you will experience the essence of Nepal and its culture and tradition. Bhaktapur combines the best of both the worlds—ancient architecture and religious shrines along with the legacy of Newar culture and the craftsmen. Bhaktapur is also a good place for adventure lovers, who can enjoy the beautiful landscape around the city.
UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bhaktapur
The entire Bhaktapur city is a world heritage site. Bhaktapur has been listed among the World Heritage Sites since 1979. It is the first planned city in Nepal and the best example of the architectural style of Newar people. Durbar Square Plaza, Taumadhi Square, Pottery Square and Dattatraya Square are the most famous architectural sites in Bhaktapur.
Durbar Square: Durbar Square is such a beautiful place that it is hard not to fall in love with it at first sight. There are 13 structures inside the Durbar Square and each of them has a fascinating story behind it.
Taumadhi Saquare: Mansthan Thope is a Buddhist monastery that is located on the southern side of Bhaktapur. The monastery was built around the 16th century AD. The monastery has a beautiful view and is a very peaceful place to visit.
Pottery Square : Sajha Chowk is a beautiful place where you can see old and beautiful temples. There is an art gallery in the middle of this place that displays the wonderful paintings of different artists.
Dattatraya Square
Famous historical sites in Bhaktapur
Bhimsen Temple: Bhimsen Temple is a very old and historical temple situated in Dattatraya Square,Bhaktapur. Bhimsen Temple is dedicated to Bhimsen, the Nepalese version of Lord Shiva. Bhimsen Temple is also known as the “NewarStyle Temple” as it is made of wood and other natural materials.
Golden Gate: The Golden Gate of Bhaktapur is a beautiful gate made of brick, which is covered in gold sheets. The gate is a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
Golden Gate: The Golden Gate of Bhaktapur is another famous gate made of brick and covered with gold sheets. The gate is a symbol of beauty and youth.
Conclusion
Bhaktapur is a historic city, known for its beautiful architecture. It is also the first planned city in Nepal. The city is a World Heritage Site and one of the most visited places in Nepal. Bhaktapur is a great place to experience Nepalese culture and tradition. Bhaktapur is full of art and architecture, and it is an important place to understand the culture and history of Nepal. If you love history and architecture, then you must visit Bhaktapur at least once in your lifetime.
