Do you know what Patan is and where it is located? This blog can talk about everything you need to know.
Patan Durbar Square is located at the heart of Lalitpur district. Patan Durbar Square is a collection of historic structures, including temples, palaces, courtyards, and other structures. They are ancient names for this city, like Mangal Bazar, and various names of Patan. It is a most popular tourist destination and is regarded as one of the best examples of Newari architecture anywhere in the world.
Also, the square is a living museum of Nepali art and culture with complex carvings and paintings adorning the walls and roofs of monuments. This museum displays a different aspect of Nepali culture, history, and lifestyle. The square is home to several palaces, including the Patan Durbar itself, which was the seat of the kings and is now a museum. The Durbar Square offers many opportunities for visitors willing to study and research the artistic and architectural masterpieces, history, and culture of Lalitpur.
The history of Patan dates back to the 3rd century when the Kirat Dynasty ruled the kingdom. Then, the kingdom was handed over to Lichhavi and Malla until the Shah Dynasty took control of the entire Kathmandu valley. Patan became a city in the kingdom of Nepal. Over the years, it has been known by many names, such as Upgram, Lalit, Patton, Maningal, etc. Lalit was a farmer; he was believed to have carried Rato Machindranath. A Hindu god from the state of Assam, India, went to the valley to end the worst period going on at that time. It is believed that the great Ashoka visited the place in 250 B.C. He built five Buddhist stupas, four corners of Patan, and one at the center.
The Royal Palace of Malla was built in the 16th century by Siddhi Narsingh Malla. It is now a museum open to the public. The museum transports visitors to the past with statues, paintings, and designs from that era.
Malla built the famous temple of the Patan Durbar Square, Krishna Mandir. It is dedicated to a Hindu deity. This temple has a three-tiered structure with 21 Gajuras. It also has stone-carved paintings of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva.
Want some more about the history of Nepal? click here 👉🏻 History of Nepal
Patan Durbar Square is rich in ancient temples and architecture. These include the Golden Temple, Mahabuddha, Jagannath Temple, Taleju Temple, and more. The square has many workshops where artisans work on traditional crafts, such as Metalwork, wood carving, and pottery. These crafts have a long history in Nepal and are essential to the country’s artistic and cultural heritage. Patan Durbar Square is made in ancient Newari architecture.This square design is Shikhara style and Pagoda style. We can see this style in Kumbeshwar and Degutale temples, among others.
The famous temple of Patan, Krishna temple, was built in Shikara-style architecture. Shikhara style is a tall, spire(tree/grass) )-like tower rising above the main sanctum. Patan Durbar Square creates a unique and harmonious blend of traditional Hindu and Buddhist elements, making it a must-see destination for architecture.
If you can enjoy it, Patan is best for you. Patan has many famous temples and monuments around Patan Durbar Square. They are:
Patan Museum is located inside the Keshav Narayan Chowk. It was started by King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah in 1997 and is the first museum for the public.
The museum has an outstanding collection of cast bronze and gilt copper works, mostly of Hindus and Buddhists. If you are looking for the valley’s history in a single place, Patan Museum is the place for you. We recommend you visit on holiday during office hours to avoid crowds and hence have a thorough look at all of the museum components.
Krishna Mandir is octagonal-shaped and is a famous and influential temple. This temple was built by King Siddinarsingh Malla in 1637. Krishna Mandir is made of stone in the Shikhara style. The temple is a must-see site in the square with magnificent carvings and artwork. A large number of Hindus come to visit this temple and worship Lord Krishna on the special occasion of Krishna Janmashtami. If you are visiting, Krishna Mandir is the best place for you. We recommend you visit crowds in your free time and look at all the areas.
Vishwanath temple is located opposite Manga Hiti. It was built in 1627 during the reign of King Siddhinarsingh Malla. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a lingam.
Golden Temple is one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples on Patan Durbar Square’s northern side.It is popular as Hiranya Varna Mahavihara. This temple was founded in the 12th century, though the record of the current existing temple is since 1409. Golden Temple is a masterpiece of courtyard architecture, protected by two stone elephants.
Mchhendranath Temple is located in Tabahal Patan. Machhendranath is a god dedicated to the red-colored statue, a deity revered by Hindus and Buddhists. Construction of the temple was completed in the 16th century, making it one of the oldest Machhendranath temples in Nepal.
The best time to visit Patan Durbar Square is typically early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Visiting during this time allows you to avoid the heat and crowds of tourists and provides the best light for photography. If you are more into observing, visiting Patan Durbar Square is subjective and depends on your preference. However, if you can, visit during peak hours(10 am onwards) and the evening (4 pm) of any day and weekends are good options.
Patan Durbar Square is rich in arts, architectural heritage, cultures, and festivals in Nepal. Patan celebrates a Jatra or a festival almost every month, sometimes multiple celebrations a month. It is no one’s surprise, considering how much the Newar community loves their festivals and Bhoj. The major festivals celebrated in Patan.
| S.N | Festival Name |
| 1 | Rato Machhindranath Jatra |
| 2 | Gai Jatra |
| 3 | Bhimsena Jatra |
| 4 | Astamatrika |
| 5 | Krishna Janmastami |
| 6 | Mataya Festival |
| 7 | Samyak Mahadan (Every 5 years) |
Do you want to know more about Newar community festivals? click here 👉🏻 9 Newari festivals: why are they celebrated
Entry Fees
There are many entrance fees for Patan Durbar Square depending on if you want to enter the Patan Museum which is located within the square itself. Entrance to Patan Durbar Square itself is free.
| SAARC National | NPR 150 Per Person |
| Other Nationals | NPR 1000 Per Person |
| For Museum | Foreigner NPR 50 Nepalese NPR 30 |
Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a must-see for any visitor to Nepal. It is a unique and harmonious blend of traditional Hindu and Buddhist elements with a rich history and culture. The square is home to many beautiful temples, palaces, courtyards, and workshops where artisans continue to practice traditional crafts. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, art, or culture, the Kingdom of Lalitpur has something to offer everyone.
We hope you found this helpful. If you want further insights on various aspects of traveling in Nepal, do check out some of our other Blogs.
The square is famous for Newari architecture, which includes ancient palaces, statues, idols, and beautiful temples, such as Patan Square, Krishna Mandir, Patan Museum, and Golden Temple. Six hundred stupas,136 courtyards, and 55 significant temples surround Patan Durbar Square.
Patan was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. It is an ancient Buddhist city with an artistic culture unique to Nepal and the World.
King Siddhi Narsingh Malla built Patan Durbar Square.
Here are some stupas of Patan
Is Patan worth a day trip while traveling in Nepal?
Yes, Patan is worth a day trip while traveling in Nepal. They have a rich history and culture, you can gain a unique experience, craft hub, and day trip friendly. So, if you are interested in history, culture, and beautiful architecture, then Patan is worth a visit.
The best time to visit Patan Durbar Square is typically early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Visiting during this time allows you to avoid the heat and crowds of tourists and provides the best light for photography. If you can, visit during peak hours(10 am onwards) and the evening (4 pm) of any day and weekends are good options.
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