Patan Durbar Square

Apr 22, 2025

Blog By: Levinly Travel

Patan (Lalitpur): A timeless tapestry of art, faith, and heritage

Patan, known as Lalitpur in modern Nepali – derived from the Sanskrit word Lalitāpattana, meaning "city of beauty"- Not only is it famous for its exquisite art and architecture, it also holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a rich cultural heritage dating back more than two millennia. Its ancient name in Nepal is Bhasa Yala, a term still fondly preserved and used by the local Newar community, whose deep cultural roots shape the city's identity. Located just 5km southeast of Kathmandu, Patan is a sparkling jewel of the Kathmandu Valley – renowned for its intricate art, enduring spiritual traditions, and vibrant cultural heritage that thrives in its temples, courtyards, and festivals.

Renowned for its sophisticated urban design, remarkable craftsmanship, and seamless integration of Hindu and Buddhist influences, Patan has historically served as a thriving hub for both artists and monks, which has fostered a unique cultural exchange that has made its mark as a beacon of artistic innovation and spiritual devotion. Patan retains the timeless atmosphere of a medieval city, where narrow cobbled streets wind past centuries-old red-brick houses, and sacred courtyards adorned with intricately carved stone and wood offer a glimpse of spiritual and architectural traditions that have shaped the city for generations. The dominant sound that permeates the air of Patan is the rhythmic hammering of the artisans who skillfully shape sculptures with time-honored techniques such as repoussé and the lost wax process – ancient methods that have been passed down for generations. This exceptional craftsmanship, rooted in centuries-old tradition, has earned Patan global recognition as a centre of artistic excellence and innovation.

Patan Durbar Square: A Masterpiece of Crafts, Culture, and Tradition

At the heart of Patan lies its crown jewel – the Patan Durbar Square, an architectural masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, where stunning temples, palaces, and intricate courtyards come together to reflect the city’s rich history, cultural significance, and artistic splendor. This magnificent square, which was once the royal courtyard of the Malla kings, is an unrivalled example of the brilliance of Newari architecture, with ornate temples, intricately carved wooden windows, and majestic palaces that reflect the height of artistic and architectural achievements during the Malla dynasty. The square is a wonderland of grand palaces, layered temples, intricate sculptures, and serene courtyards, each element telling stories of age-old devotion, mythological symbolism, and unparalleled artistic mastery that have been carefully preserved and celebrated for generations.

Many of the temples and monuments that adorn the Patan Durbar Square were built during the reign of King Siddhi Narasimha Malla (1618-1661 AD), who was the first independent Malla ruler of Patan, whose patronage of the arts and intense religious devotion ushered in a golden age of architectural and cultural flourishing in the city. Under his visionary rule, Patan experienced an extraordinary cultural renaissance, in which the arts – especially architecture, sculpture, and metalwork – reached new heights, resulting in a legacy of craftsmanship and aesthetic sophistication that still defines the city's identity today. His enduring legacy is reflected in the construction of numerous temples around the palace complex and Patan Durbar Square – each a masterpiece of design and devotion, contributing to the spiritual and architectural splendor that defines the heart of the city.

The architectural harmony of Patan Durbar Square is beautifully expressed through its red brick-tiled flooring, which creates a warm and unifying base, and the surrounding structures crafted from intricately carved wood and finely carved stone. Each element contributes to a coherent aesthetic that reflects the refined sensibility of Newar craftsmanship. This historic city is home to over 136 bahals (monastic courtyards) and 55 major temples, many of which are located around Patan Durbar Square, which forms a dense sacred landscape that reflects the city's deep spiritual traditions and its enduring role as a center of religious and cultural life.

Best things to do in Patan Durbar Square: Culture, crafts, and attractions

Krishna Mandir (Temple)

The Krishna Temple, built in 1667 by King Siddhi Narasimha Malla after a divine dream in which he saw Lord Krishna standing at this very spot, is one of the most revered temples in Patan. It is a rare and outstanding example of the Granthakuta shikhara style in Nepal, distinguished by its 21 golden shikharas and three symbolic tiers - the first dedicated to Lord Krishna, the second to Lord Shiva, and the third to Lokeshwar (Avalokitesvara). The intricately carved stone façades of the temple vividly depict scenes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, reflecting a blend of spiritual devotion and artistic mastery.

Bhimsen Temple

The Bhimsen Temple, built in 1680 by King Srinivasa Malla, is dedicated to Bhimsen, the great hero of the Mahabharata, who is worshipped by the Newar community as the patron deity of trade and commerce. Strategically located in the middle of the square, the temple is famous for its attractive golden windows and elaborate woodwork, exemplifying the rich decorative style of Newar craftsmanship and reflecting Bhimsen's revered status among the city's merchant class.

Vishwanath Temple

The Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in 1627, is a fine example of Shaivite devotion in Patan Durbar Square. Flanked by two majestic stone elephants at its entrance, the temple enshrines a central Shiva linga and houses a statue of Nandi, Shiva's sacred bull and devoted vehicle. The intricately carved pillars are adorned with erotic images – symbolic representations of Tantric principles and fertility – that echo the esoteric motifs commonly found in Shiva temples throughout South Asia.

Taleju Bhawani Temple

Taleju Bhavani Temple, dedicated to the fierce protective goddess and personal deity of the Malla kings, is an imposing five-story structure set atop three massive terraces. Originally built in 1640 and rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1667, the temple exemplifies the grandeur of royal Newar architecture. Although it is closed to the general public, it holds deep spiritual and ceremonial significance, serving as a sacred symbol of divine kingship and royal protection within Patan's religious landscape.

Inside Patan Durbar Square: The secrets of its palace courtyards

• Mul Chowk: The main courtyard of the royal palace, the Mool Chowk, is a quiet but attractive space with several temples dedicated to the royal deity Taleju on either side. The southern gate of the courtyard is particularly notable for the stone statues of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna, who stand as guardians at the entrance,  which symbolise purity and divine protection, while adding to the sanctity and architectural grandeur of the palace complex.
• Sundari Chowk: Sundari Chowk, famous for the spectacular sunken bathhouse Tusha Hiti, is a breathtaking courtyard that showcases the intricate artistry of stone, wood, and metal work. Beyond its historical and architectural significance, the courtyard has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub, seamlessly blending the rich flavours of the local Newari cuisine and the vibrant energy of the nightlife. A striking self-illuminated moon sculpture now adds a modern twist, attracting both tourists and locals to this dynamic and fascinating spot.
• Keshav Narayan Chowk: Keshav Narayan Chowk, now an important part of the Patan Museum, is home to the revered Keshav Narayan Temple and serves as a showcase for an impressive collection of rare bronze artefacts. The courtyard bears testimony to Patan's unique heritage in metallurgy and religious art, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's historical mastery of both spiritual craftsmanship and metallurgical techniques.

Exploring Patan: Remarkable Sites You Can't Miss

• Mahabouddha Temple: The Mahabodhi Temple, located to the east of Durbar Square, is a 14th-century architectural masterpiece, famous for its stunning façade covered with thousands of terra-cotta tiles, each intricately carved with an image of Lord Buddha. This remarkable temple is a profound tribute to Buddhist devotion and an exceptional example of ceramic artistry, reflecting the seamless blend of spiritual reverence and craftsmanship that defines Patan's rich cultural heritage.
• Rudra Varna Mahavihar (Uku Bahal): Rudra Varna Mahavihara, also known as Uku Bahal, is a historically important monastery that once served as the venue for the coronation of kings. This sacred place is home to an extraordinary collection of religious sculptures and offerings, reflecting its long-term significance in both Patan's spiritual and royal history. The Vihara symbolizes the deep cultural and religious heritage that has shaped the city over the centuries.
• Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple): Hiranya Varna Mahavihara, commonly known as the Golden Temple, is a 12th-century three-storey monastery famous for its breathtaking metalwork and intricate wood carvings that showcase the finest Newar craftsmanship. Within its sacred walls, visitors are greeted by a magnificently decorated statue of Buddha, an eye-catching centerpiece that reflects the temple's profound spiritual significance and the artistic mastery of that era.
• Kumbheshwar Temple: Kumbheshwor Temple, one of only three five-tiered pagodas in Nepal, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and sits majestically above a sacred spring that is believed to be connected to the glacier-fed Gosainkunda Lake. This revered temple becomes a major pilgrimage destination during Janai Purnima in August, attracting devotees who come to pay respect to its spiritual significance and the holy water that flows through its premises.
• Jagat Narayan Temple: Situated on the serene banks of the Bagmati River, the Jagat Narayan Temple is a splendid example of the Shikhara style, a red brick structure dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple houses beautifully sculpted statues of Garuda, Ganesha and Hanuman, which bear testimony to the rich religious iconography and artistic tradition of the region. Its serene location on the riverbank adds to its spiritual and cultural significance, making it a favourite destination for devotees.
• Ashoka Stupas: The Ashoka Stupa is believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka in 250 BC, which is a testimony to Patan's deep Buddhist heritage. Apart from this iconic stupa, there are four ancient stupas located at Pulchowk, Lagankhel, Ibahi, and Tata on the borders of Patan. These stupas not only symbolize the city's spiritual devotion but also serve as enduring landmarks of Patan's historical connection to the spread of Buddhism throughout the region.
• Tibetan Refugee Camp: The Tibetan Refugee Camp on the outskirts of Patan is a vibrant settlement known for its colourful souvenir shops selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including intricately woven carpets, prayer wheels, and handmade jewellery. The camp also houses a stupa and several temples, providing visitors with a peaceful atmosphere that reflects both Tibetan spiritual traditions and the community's perseverance in preserving their culture.
• Patan Industrial Estate: The Patan Industrial Estate located in Lagankhel is a thriving hub of traditional craftsmanship, where skilled artisans continue centuries-old practices of wood carving, metal work and thangka painting. Visitors have the unique opportunity to explore workshops and purchase high-quality, handmade goods directly from the artisans, offering a glimpse of the meticulous craftsmanship that has long defined Patan's artistic heritage.

Patan: Where heritage lives and breathes

Patan is much more than a static museum of ancient art and architecture – it is a vibrant, lively city where age-old spiritual rituals, colourful festivals, and traditional artisan practices continue to flourish in daily life. The seamless coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism here is not only peaceful but deeply intertwined, manifest in shared spaces, overlapping symbolism, and the rhythm of devotion that pulsates in every street, temple, and courtyard. Despite suffering extensive damage during the 2015 earthquake, Patan has demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment to conservation. Careful restoration efforts have revitalized many of its heritage sites, with temples like the Hari Shankara Temple now completely renovated, standing not just as symbols of architectural revival but also of the enduring spirit of the community.

Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or a curious traveller, Patan invites you on an immersive journey into the soul of Nepali heritage, where each temple, courtyard, and artisans’ workshop tells a story of devotion, creativity, and centuries-old tradition. A visit to Patan is not just a sightseeing tour – it is a transformative journey through centuries-old sacred artistry, vibrant traditions, and intense devotion that continue to shape the soul of the city today.