Kathmandu Durbar Square



Kathmandu Durbar square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, used to be the residence of the Nepali royal family and administrators. This ancient palace lies in the heart of the city. It consists of huge Royal Palace with different temples, inside as well as outside the temple, dating from the 15th to the 18th century.

This palace is named after Hanuman, the monkey god, as a stone statue of Hanuman is placed right next to the main entrance protecting the whole palace.

There are around 50 temples in the vicinity including the temple of Royal titular deity, Taleju Bhawanibuilt during 16th century. The Durbar is divided into two courtyards, the outer comprising Kastamandap, from which Kathmandu derives its name, is said to have been built from the timber of a single tree.

The 17th century Kumari temple (the temple of the living goddess is an example of the highly developed Nepali craftsmanship, Shiva-Parvati Temple, The Kala Bhairav, one of the largest 17th century stone statue in Kathmandu, represents the terrifying aspect of Shiva and the inner consisting of Hanuman Dhoka and the main palace.

It also houses two museums. Besides these, other fascinating parts of this palace complex is the towering Nautale Durbar overlooking the beautiful city and the vast Basantapur square. Important ceremonies, including the coronation of the Nepali monarch, are held in the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Most parts of the palace premise are open for tourists.