Three- Durbar Squares of Nepal

Nepal is one of the oldest countries in the world. Nepal holds the history of art, culture, and traditions. People in Nepal follow different cultures and speak different languages being a secular and multilingual country. Throughout their 550-year reign the Mallas built several temples and magnificent mansions with lovely squares. With religious festivals instituted and literature, music, and art fostered during their reign, society and towns grew more organized. 

Moreover, the valley was divided into three kingdoms after Yaksha Malla's death: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon), and Patan (Lalitpur). Nepal was separated into around 46 independent principalities around this time. Additionally, the kingdom of Gorkha, which was ruled by a Shah, was one of them.  

The term "Durbar Square" refers to surrounding Nepal's historic royal palaces. Therefore, Durbar Squares are a collection of temples, statues, open courts, fountains, and other constructions. Moreover, important events such as the coronation of rulers of the realm were held in Durbar Squares in the past. Once up on a time Nepal was formerly a land of numerous tiny kingdoms. We can see the ancient kingdom life and style in the durbarsquares. Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square are the three Durbar Squares here in Nepal. These 3 squares have been designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

The Kathmandu Durbar Square is also known as the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. This is one among the three durbar squares in the Kathmandu Valley. This was the old royal residence and courtyard of the Mallas and Shahs of Kathmandu with a multitude of temples and shrines. Similarly, the main royal complex was built in the 15th century, with additional structures and monuments being added over time. The titular landmark Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Mandir, nine-story Basantapur Tower, Sundari Chowk, Tribhuvan Museum, King Mahendra Memorial Museum, and Kal Bhairab temple are all worth seeing in the area. 

Pagoda-style temples representing Hindu and Buddhist religions have been built which have its own religious importance. However, the Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the most visited tourist locations to see spectacular architecture involved in the construction of temples and palaces. Additionally, Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the eight Cultural World Heritage Sites in Nepal.

Patan Durbar Square

The Patan Durbar Square is known for the old palace of the kingdom of Patan/Lalitpur. However, the town is thought to have been named after King Yalamber, as Patan also means Yala. It is located 8 kilometers southeast from Kathmandu's central district. This palace is a wonderful example of Newari artistry and building. 

Additionally, several Hindu and Buddhist monuments can be found in the courtyard. In the 3rd century BCE, according to historical records  parts of this Square were created by Emperor Ashoka. The Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple, Golden Temple, Jagat Narayan Temple, Hari Shanker Temple, Vishwanath Temple, Bhimsen Temple, and Rato Machhendra Temple are the major attractions to explore in Patan Durbar Square. 

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is also one of Kathmandu's three historic palaces. Bhaktapur, also spelled Khwopa or Bhadgaon, is a medieval city about 12 kilometers east of Kathmandu. One of the outstanding examples of Nepali architecture and craftsmanship is the Durbar Square in Kathmandu. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is made up of four squares: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square. The Lions Gate, Golden Gate, Art Gallery, King Bhupatindra Statue, Nyatapola Temple, and fifty-five windowed Malla Palace are among the most renowned sites and monuments. 

Moreover, the temples in Bhaktapur Durbar Square are a mix of pagoda and shikhara styles. The temples are arranged around a brick and wood palace with fifty-five windows. The traditional art of Nepal is shown at the Bhaktapur Durbar Museum. Apart from the stunning temples, the historic city fascinates you with a superb array of beautiful locally grown produce, pottery, and numerous other artworks.