Things To Do
in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, located east of Kathmandu in Nepal, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and historic charm. The city is home to traditional Newari crafts, including pottery, woodcarving, and metalwork. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, ancient temples, and intricate pagodas that reflect Bhaktapur's rich cultural heritage.
The city's Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Nepal's history and culture.
- "Timi lai kasto chha?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Tapaiko naam ke ho?" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Admire the intricate wood carvings and ancient temples around this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery, then explore the nearby Pottery Square. Participate in pottery making and learn about this age-old craft.
Stroll through the square as the sun sets, capturing beautiful photos of the lit temples. Enjoy a traditional Newari dinner at a rooftop restaurant.
Wake up early for a drive to Nagarkot to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. Take in the panoramic views before heading back to Bhaktapur.
After returning, visit the 55-Window Palace and the Vatsala Temple in Bhaktapur. Discover the fascinating history and architecture that defines the city.
Relax and enjoy some local Newari snacks. Spend your evening walking through the charming streets, soaking in the local culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Less crowded than Kathmandu, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for tourists.
- Home to traditional crafts and local artisan products, providing unique shopping experiences.
- Vibrant local festivals and events that showcase Nepali culture and traditions.
- Access to stunning views of the Himalayas and surrounding hills.
- Limited modern amenities and infrastructure compared to larger cities.
- Tourism can negatively impact the preservation of ancient sites due to increased foot traffic.
- Some areas may be challenging to navigate for those with mobility issues due to uneven paving and steep paths.
- Occasional issues with pollution and waste management in certain areas.
- Limited dining options and nightlife compared to Kathmandu.
Best Activities in Bhaktapur
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient palace complex with its intricate architecture and artwork.
Enjoy a scenic hike to Nagarkot for stunning views of the Himalayas and sunrise/sunset.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site and admire its ancient Hindu architecture and carvings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bhaktapur with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bhaktapur
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas and sunrise/sunset photography opportunities.
Historic square with intricate architecture and great photo opportunities of ancient temples and palaces.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful views and photo opportunities of ancient stone carvings.
A picturesque pond surrounded by beautiful scenery, ideal for photography and relaxation.
Food in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A festive delicacy made of rice flour dough, filled with cane sugar and sesame seeds. It is widely available during the Yomari Punhi festival and can be found in local bakeries and sweet shops in Bhaktapur.
Must-Try!
Also known as 'King Curd', this creamy and sweet yogurt is a specialty of Bhaktapur. It is traditionally served in clay pots and can be savored at various dairy shops and local eateries in the city.
Often referred to as 'Nepali Pizza', this rice flour crepe is topped with minced meat, eggs, and a variety of spices. It is a popular street food in Bhaktapur and can be enjoyed at local food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bhaktapur better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Bhaktapur, this bustling food market offers a wide array of local snacks, fresh produce, and traditional delicacies. Visitors can indulge in street food such as samosas, momos, and spiced potato fritters.
This area is renowned for its street food stalls, dishing up delectable treats like sel roti (rice flour donuts), bara (fried lentil patties), and aloo tama (potato and bamboo shoot curry).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bhaktapur is a city rich in cultural heritage, so it's important to show respect for local customs and traditions. This includes being mindful of dress codes, asking for permission before taking photos, and participating in local festivals and rituals with reverence.
In Bhaktapur, it's customary to greet people with the traditional Nepali greeting 'Namaste' with your palms pressed together and a slight bow. This is a sign of respect and is widely appreciated by the local community.
Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are not common in Nepali culture and may be considered disrespectful. It's important to be mindful of this cultural norm and maintain appropriate behavior in public spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bhaktapur with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bhaktapur
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bhaktapur, Nepal, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some tourist-centric establishments such as upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If you feel that you received exceptional service, a small tip would be appreciated, but it is not mandatory.
In Bhaktapur, Nepal, cash is the most widely used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are not commonly accepted, especially in smaller shops and local markets. It's advisable to carry enough cash for your expenses during your visit.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bhaktapur.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Bhaktapur with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant cultural festivals like Bisket Jatra.
Bhaktapur at Night
Hiking in Bhaktapur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hill station a short drive from Bhaktapur, known for its stunning sunrise views and easy to moderate hiking trails.
A historical site with a beautiful temple and scenic trails in the surrounding hills, offering an easy hike with cultural significance.
A traditional Newari village with access to hiking routes that lead to the surrounding hills and forests, showcasing local culture and natural beauty.
A cultural walk that can be extended into nearby hilly areas, providing easy walking options while exploring the historic sites.
Located a bit further away, this area offers lush greenery and beautiful trails, ideal for nature lovers and those looking for peaceful hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bhaktapur through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bhaktapur by plane.
The main international airport serving Kathmandu, located about 8 kilometers from Bhaktapur.
Located in Lumbini, this airport is around 250 kilometers from Bhaktapur, serving as a secondary international gateway.
Located in Pokhara, about 200 kilometers from Bhaktapur, it serves domestic and select international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous ethnic group known for their rich cultural heritage and historical significance in Bhaktapur.
A high caste group primarily associated with priesthood and scholarly pursuits.
Traditionally the warrior class, often involved in administration and defense.
An ethnic group traditionally known for their agricultural practices and as part of the Gurkha soldiers.
An ethnic group known for their contribution to the Gurkha regiments in the military and agriculture.
Includes a mix of various ethnicities and communities from neighboring regions and other parts of Nepal.
The Soul of Bhaktapur
Discover the essence of Bhaktapur through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, also known as soccer, is the most popular sport in Bhaktapur, attracting a large number of local players and fans.
Cricket has gained significant popularity in Bhaktapur, with many local clubs and youth participating in various tournaments.
Basketball is growing in popularity among the youth in Bhaktapur, with several schools and community centers promoting the sport.
Volleyball is a traditional sport enjoyed by many in Bhaktapur, often played in schools and local community events.
Dhokyano is a traditional form of martial arts practiced in the region, reflecting the cultural heritage of Bhaktapur.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bhaktapur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bhaktapur caters well to vegetarians, with many eateries offering a wide range of vegetable-based dishes, lentil soups, and dairy products.
While vegan options may be more limited, several restaurants in Bhaktapur are accommodating to vegan dietary needs, serving dishes such as almond milk-based sweets, spiced tofu, and fresh fruit juices.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives such as rice-based dishes, cornbread, and millet-based snacks in select dining establishments across the city.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bhaktapur with these cultural adventures.
