Unlock Bhaktapur: Your Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of the City & Durbar Square - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

Today is your fourth day in Kathmandu, and today we explore Bhaktapur.

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.

The Origin of the Name Bhaktapur

The name Bhaktapur comes from the Sanskrit words ‘Bhakta’ (devotee) and ‘Pur’ (city), literally meaning ‘City of Devotees’. This name reflects its rich spiritual heritage and the deeply religious nature of its people, who have preserved ancient rituals, festivals, and temple traditions for generations.
Historically known as Bhadgaon (or Khwopa in the Newar language), Bhaktapur was once the capital of the entire Kathmandu Valley during the Malla period. It flourished between the 12th and 18th centuries and became a hub of craftsmanship, temple construction, and Newar culture.

What to See and Do in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is best explored on foot. Its narrow brick lanes, intricately carved wooden windows, and majestic courtyards make it feel like a step back in time.

Self-guided walking tour of Bhaktapur

(map, reviews)

Bhaktapur is living city, where traditions thrive. Locals still celebrate dozens of festivals with traditional music, masked dances, and elaborate rituals. Artisans continue to create pottery, wood carvings, and paubha paintings (traditional form of religious painting originating from the Newar people) using ancient techniques.

Detailed information can be found at our Bhaktapur Page

Self-guided walking tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square

(map, reviews)

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the third Durbar Square that you are visiting. It used to be the largest and most magnificent of the three, featuring extensive palace complexes, temples, and courtyards, but most of its buildings have been lost to history. What is left today is still a stunning display of Malla architecture and definitely worth a visit.

Detailed information can be found at our Bhaktapur Durbar Square Page

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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.

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