Bagmati Province, Nepal
Things to do in Bhaktapur
A living medieval Newar city just east of Kathmandu — car-free brick lanes, temple squares, master potters and the famous juju dhau king curd.
Bhaktapur is the best-preserved of the Kathmandu Valley's three royal cities — a maze of brick-paved lanes, temple-lined squares and craft workshops, mostly closed to traffic and easy to explore on foot.
Just 13 km east of Kathmandu, it makes an easy day trip or a peaceful overnight base. Wander Bhaktapur Durbar Square, look up at the towering Nyatapola Temple, watch potters at work in Pottery Square, and try a bowl of juju dhau. Below are our picks for where to stay and what to do.
Where to stay in Bhaktapur
Where to eat in Bhaktapur
Sights & attractions in Bhaktapur
What to do in Bhaktapur
Festivals & events in Bhaktapur
Nepali cuisine in Bhaktapur
Getting around in Bhaktapur
Plan your trip in Bhaktapur
Frequently asked questions
How do you get from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur?+
Bhaktapur is about 13 km east of central Kathmandu. A taxi takes roughly 45 minutes depending on traffic, while a local bus from Ratna Park is the cheapest option. Foreign visitors pay an entry fee to the old city.
How many days should you spend in Bhaktapur?+
One full day covers Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and Pottery Square at a relaxed pace. Stay overnight to enjoy the car-free old town in the quiet early morning and evening after the day-trippers leave.
What is Bhaktapur famous for?+
Its remarkably preserved medieval Newar architecture, the five-storey Nyatapola Temple, traditional pottery, woodcarving and juju dhau — a thick, sweet 'king curd' served in clay bowls.