Nepal: Patan – Durbar Square (Revisited)

There are three imperial cities in the Kathmandu Valley – Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur – each a UNESCO site for stunning architecture and cultural heritage. Patan is only about 5km south of Kathmandu and it was an independent kingdom until the 18th century, with its own Malla dynasty. The square was the royal and cultural heart, hosting ceremonies and festivals. Patan is famous as a center of Newari craftsmanship – metalwork and wood carving. The square exemplifies the peak of Newari architecture with intricately carved wooden doors and windows, bronze statues, and multi-tiered pagoda temples. Among its many temples the most spectacular are Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, Vishwanath Temple, Taleju Bhawani Temple and also Golden Gate.