Unlock Bhaktapur: Your Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Ancient Kingdom - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

The following maps show the route that you will take today – there is a separate map for the self-guided walking tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square:

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.

Uma Maheshwar Temple and Anantalingeswar Temple

(map, reviews)

Located a few feet to the west of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, stand two shrines. The taller of the two is Uma Maheshwar Temple, and the smaller shrine is Anantalingeswar Temple.

Detailed information and a legend about Anantalingeswar Temple can be found at our Uma Maheshwar Temple and Anantalingeswar Temple Page

Our Self-Guided tour of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square can be found here.

Taumadhi Square

(map, reviews)

Taumadhi Square is a bustling open space which is known for its stunning temples, vibrant festivals, and timeless Newar architecture. It’s one of the most photogenic and culturally alive spots in Bhaktapur, blending spiritual energy with everyday local life.

At the heart of Taumadhi Square stands the iconic Nyatapola Temple, the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal.

Detailed information can be found at our Taumadhi Square Page

Nyatapola Temple

(map, reviews)

Nyatapola Temple is the tallest and most iconic temple in the city. Located in the heart of Taumadhi Square, this five-tiered pagoda rises an impressive 30 meters (98 feet) above the brick-paved square, offering both an architectural and spiritual experience like no other in Nepal.

Nyatapola Temple was built in 1702 by King Bhupatindra Malla, one of the most influential rulers of the Malla dynasty. It is dedicated to Siddhi Lakshmi, a fierce and powerful manifestation of the goddess Durga. She is believed to have immense strength, which is why the temple is so solidly built, and why no one but the priest is allowed to view the image of the deity inside - but you are allowed to walk all the way up to the lowest level for free.

Detailed information can be found at our Nyatapola Temple Page

Bhairabnath Temple

(map, reviews)

Bhairabnath Temple is dedicated to Bhairab, an intimidating manifestation of Lord Shiva.

The temple's architecture is a prime example of the intricately designed pagoda style, which is typical of temples in the Kathmandu Valley. The wooden carvings and the detailed sculptures surrounding the temple depict various gods and goddesses, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.

Detailed information can be found at our Bhairabnath Temple Page

In Style Café

(map, reviews)

If you, like us, are exhausted and need some time to relax and have some coffee and cake, In Style Café is a good option, especially when you like to find a quiet space.
It is located just a few feet from Taumadhi Square, and partially hidden behind a patio with large trees. If you didn’t know it was there (trust google maps), you may accidentally walk by and miss it.
Inside, the restaurant is modern and stylish. We really liked the food, and coffee, and how quiet it was.

Pottery Square

(map, reviews)

Pottery Square is located in the ‘Talako Tole’ residential neighborhood of Bhaktapur. Talako Tole is Nepali and means ‘Lower Neighborhood’. The area is also known as ‘Kumal Tole’. The Kumal are a distinct ethnic group or caste in Nepal, primarily known for their traditional occupation of pottery making.

The pottery tradition in Bhaktapur dates back over 1,000 years, originating during the Licchavi period (approximately 400–750 AD) or even earlier. The Newar community, indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, has carried this tradition forward for generations. From everyday household items to ritual vessels used in Hindu and Buddhist ceremonies, clay products are an essential part of Nepali life.

Detailed information can be found at our Pottery Square Page

Backstreets

(map, reviews)

Before you leave Bhaktapur for your next destination, we propose to explore the backstreets of this neighborhood. We were amazed by all the things we saw and, judging by the people’s surprised and interested looks, it seems that some of the streets have never seen any tourists.
Many of the streets are fairly narrow where you need to avoid the occasional motorcycles. But they open up to large plazas like Nasamana Bhakatpur (map, reviews) where you may see people dry rice grains or festivals or tournaments, and you will find small temples and shrines along the way.

Back to your Day 4 in Nepal Itinerary

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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