atithi

Blogs

Pityful a rethoric question ran
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Jul 19, 2023

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a historic square located in the heart of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. "Durbar" translates to "Palace" in Nepali, so the square is often referred to as the Kathmandu Palace Square. It is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, the other two being Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The entire valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich cultural and historical significance.

Kathmandu Durbar Square served as the royal palace complex for the Malla kings who ruled over the Kathmandu Valley from the 12th to the 18th century. It was the center of power and politics during that era. The square is surrounded by beautiful palaces, courtyards, temples, and statues, representing the architectural and artistic excellence of the Malla period.

Major attractions in Kathmandu Durbar Square include:

  1. Hanuman Dhoka Palace: The royal palace, named after the monkey god Hanuman, is an impressive building that served as the residence of the Nepalese kings.
  2. Taleju Temple: This three-story pagoda-style temple dedicated to Goddess Taleju Bhawani is one of the most important religious structures within the square.
  3. Kumari Ghar (Kumari Chowk): A distinctive building that houses the Kumari, a living goddess selected as a child and revered by the locals and visitors alike.
  4. Basantapur Tower: Also known as the "Nine-Storeyed Palace," this towering structure offers a panoramic view of the entire Durbar Square and its surroundings.
  5. Kalbhairav Statue: A ferocious deity represented by a giant stone statue, worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists.
  6. Temples: Numerous small and large temples are scattered throughout the square, each with its own unique design and religious significance.

Entry fees for Vistors 

As per the update in September 2021, there was an entry fee for visitors to Kathmandu Durbar Square. However, please note that entry fees and policies can change over time, so it's essential to verify the current information before your visit. As of 2021, the entry fee for foreigners was NPR (Nepalese Rupees) 1,000 (approximately USD 10), and for SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) nationals, it was NPR 150. Nepali citizens were charged NPR 50 as an entry fee.

These fees helped support the maintenance and preservation of the historical site, especially after the earthquake in 2015, which caused significant damage to many heritage structures in the area.

To get the most up-to-date information on the entry fee and any other related details, I recommend checking official government or tourism websites for Nepal or inquiring with local authorities or tourist information centers in Kathmandu before planning your visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square.