Exploring the King Pratap Malla Column: A Historical and Artistic Centerpiece of Kathmandu Durbar Square - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

(map, reviews)

Turn around and you will see the King Pratap Malla Column.

Rising proudly from the center of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the King Pratap Malla Column is one of the most iconic and symbolic monuments in the area.
King Pratap Malla was one of the most renowned monarchs of the Malla dynasty, who ruled Kantipur (Kathmandu) from 1641 to 1674.
He was a poet, a patron of the arts, architecture, and literature, and under his reign, the city flourished and many temples, palaces, and public works were built.
King Pratap Malla built this stone pillar at some time during his reign. It is crowned with a bronze statue of himself praying with his hands folded in Namaste, and facing the nearby Hanuman Dhoka Palace.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we typically promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the Viator tours below.

Historical and Cultural Significance of the King Pratap Malla Column

The King Pratap Malla Column symbolizes the king’s piety and close connection with the divine. It is believed that the statue is placed in such a way that the king is eternally praying toward the Jagannath Temple, one of the many temples he renovated or built.
Surrounding the column’s base are images of the king’s family, adding a personal touch to the monument.

Use and Legacy of the King Pratap Malla Column

While the Malla Column is not a temple or shrine, it functions as a historic commemorative monument. Locals view it with respect, and visitors often stop to photograph the statue and reflect on the grandeur of Kathmandu’s royal past.
The column suffered damage during the 2015 earthquake, but restoration efforts have brought it back to its former glory, preserving an important piece of Kathmandu's architectural and cultural identity.

Back to your self-guided tour

Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

Other popular Purple Travel Guides you may be interested in:

Like this Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel Guide? Pin these for later: