Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur, the third of the "Royal Cities," is located just outside of Kathmandu on the old trade route to Tibet. The commerce route was both an arterial link and a key source of wealth for Bhaktapur. Because of its relative isolation at the time, the city was able to grow independently and in ways that set it apart from the other two cities.

In contrast to Patan and Kathmandu, Bhaktapur has a predominantly Hindu populace. Durbar Square is the greatest site to start a tour of the city, as it is home to the royal palace as well as a number of temples. The entire area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many of the buildings in Bhaktapur's Durbar Square were destroyed in the 2015 earthquake; the main temples are nearly complete, but development in much of the surrounding area has been slow.

A walk around Bhaktapur, which was once its own kingdom, feels like a trip back in time, especially if you stay overnight and explore the city after the daytrippers have left.

Entrance fee: N/A
Best time to visit:

• March to April
• October to November

Hours: N/A