Bhaktapur, situated about 14 kilometers east of Kathmandu at an altitude of 1401 meters, is a home of medieval art and architecture. The urban city covers an area of 4 square miles. Shaped like a conch shell. Bhaktapur means "the city of devotees" Pottery, weaving and carving are its traditional industries.

This is the main architectural structure dominating the entire Durbar Square. This magnificent monument was built in 15th century AD.
Seated on a huge column top in a position of prayer to God is King Bhupatindra Malla. He was a great scholar and artist himself. He was very fond of woodcarving. He had a very beautiful wooden fixed in his living room which is believed to have design and carved by himself.

This gate has two beautiful stone statues of Hindu deities installed on its either side. It is said that the hands of the artisans who produced this were cut off immediately after he gave a finishing touch to them. A jealous Bhadgaon King did this so that the artisan could not produce any more of such arts.

This is the main entrance to the palace. The craftsman who worked on this wonderful gate must be from Heaven. It is an eternal beauty in itself.

This 17th century temple dedicated to a mother goddess is full of intricate works on stone. This temple is known for its dog-barking bell. This bell is believed to produce a death knell when it is rung up.

Some people call it a royal dream temple. Folklore says - once a Bhadgaon King who was a great devotee to Lord Pashupati had a dream in which Lord told the king to build a temple for Pashupati right in front of this palace. He obeyed the divine command and immediately built one. Many call it replica of Pashupatinath temple of Kathmandu.

This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal. Nyatapola in Newari language means fie tires - the symbolic of five basic elements. This is the highest pagoda of Nepal ever built with such architectural perfection and artistic beauty. This temple built exactly in 1708 AD is dedicated to Sidhilaxmi, the tantric goddess of supreme power and success.

This temple is dedicated to Bhairava the God of terror and death, was built in 1702 AD. This temple was originally one storied and later a Bhadgaon King rebuilt it into three structures to please the terrifying god.

This 15th century temple, said to have been built 1427 AD is dedicated to Hindu Triad-Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu all three in one.

Source : Nepal Paradise