Patan
Durbar Square complex, situated in the center of Patan city, also known as
Lalitpur, houses the residence of the former Patan royal family. Patan
Square and its surroundings are good specimen of ancient Newari
architecture. There are three main courtyards in the palace: Mul Chowk,
Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Mul Chowk, the oldest one, is at the
centre of Patan square.
Several multi-sized and multi-styled temples occupy the western part of the
complex. Main among these are Krishna Temple, Bhimsen Temple and the Golden
Temple of Hiranya Varna.
Fast Facts
| Location |
Kathmandu Valley |
| Importance |
UNESCO world heritage site |
| UNESCO Category |
cultural |
| Major Attractions |
» Krishna temple with 21 golden pinnacles
» Tusahity royal bath |
Chowks
Mul Chowk
This is the most famous and one of the largest courtyards among
three main chowks. Bidya Temple is located at the center of the courtyard
and the Taleju temples stand around the courtyard.
Sundari Chowk
Sundari Chowk is to the south of the Mul Chowk with its sunken tank known
as Tusha Hiti Mul Chowk & Taleju Temple.
Keshav Narayan Chowk
Keshav Narayan Chowk is towards the northern part. Dominating Degutale
temple is next to it. It is the site of the earliest Malla palace in Patan.
The Chowk sits on the older foundations of a Buddhist monastery.
Places To Visit
Krishna Temple
This temple of red stone, dedicated to Hindu Lord Krishna was erected in the
17th century. The temple is considered to be the first one to be constructed
in Shikara architecture. Thanks to this attribute, it holds a commanding
position in the durbar square. The elegant shikhara-style temple is ranked
as one of the gems of Durbar Square. The temple is compared with sacred
Mount Meru, which is abode of the god Shiva according to Hindu scriptures.
Mahaboudha
Buddhist temple Mahaboudha, which is made of clay bricks, lies to the east
of the Durbar Square. Hundereds of Buddha images are engraved in the bricks.
The temple is known for its fine terra cota work.
Kumbheshwor
The five-storied pagoda-style Lord Siva temple was constructed by King
Jayasthiti Malla. Inside the temple is a natural spring whose source, is
said to be the famous glacial lake of Gosainkunda. The golden work was added
later in 1422 A.D. One the festival of Janai Purnima, ritual bathing takes
place and a fair is also held.
Jagat narayan Temple
Jagatnarayan temple is a tall shikhara style temple devoted to Lord Vishnu.
Red bricks are used for the construction of the temple. The temple also
holds a fine metal statue of Garuda, Ganesh and Hanuman, all related to
Hindu religion and mythology.
Rudra Varna Mahavihar
This Buddhist monastery holds amazing collection of images and idols in
metal, stone and wood. Legend holds that the Kings in the ancient times were
crowned in this monastery. Many of the treasures offered by the people can
be seen here even today.
The Ashokan Stupas
Indian Emperor Ashoka visited Nepal in 250 B.C and constructed four ancient
stupas at the four corners of Patan. The four stupas are located in
Pulchowk, Lagankhel, Ebahi and in Teta (way to Sano Gaon) respectively.
