Nepal is a country where every alley whispers a legend. Nowhere is this more true than in the Kathmandu Valley, home to three royal palace squares that have watched over the Himalayas for more than a thousand years. If you have limited time, these are the top 3 sites to visit in Nepal — the three Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, all recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square — The Living Heart of the Capital
Located in the historic Basantapur area, Kathmandu Durbar Square (known in Newar as Ye Lāyekū) is one of the three royal palace squares in the valley. Although the site dates back to the 3rd century, most of the towering temples you see today were built by the Malla kings between the 16th and 18th centuries. The square is a masterpiece of Newar architecture, with intricate wooden carvings on every facade.
Must-See Attractions
- Kumari Ghar — the residence of the Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a living goddess.
- Taleju Temple — a towering 3-tier temple dedicated to the goddess Taleju.
- Hanuman Dhoka Palace — the nine-story Nautalle Durbar built by Prithvi Narayan Shah.
- Kal Bhairav Statue — a fearsome stone depiction of Shiva's destructive form.
Visitor Tips
Go early in the morning to beat both the crowds and the heat. The square is a Protected Monument Zone and was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake, but restoration work has brought many temples back to life.
2. Patan Durbar Square — The City of Fine Arts
Just across the Bagmati River in the city of Lalitpur, Patan Durbar Square is often called the city of fine arts. Built in 1637 AD, it is paved with red bricks and framed by some of the most elegant temples in the country. Patan is a centre of both Hinduism and Buddhism, with 136 traditional courtyards (bahals) and 55 major temples.
Must-See Attractions
- Krishna Mandir — a stunning 3-story stone temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, entirely carved from stone.
- Patan Museum — housed in a former royal palace, showcasing sublime Buddhist art.
- Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar) — a glittering Buddhist monastery nearby.
- Bhimsen Temple — dedicated to the god of trade and commerce.
Visitor Tips
Patan is quieter than Kathmandu and perfect for slow wandering. Combine your visit with the nearby Golden Temple and a traditional Newari feast at a local restaurant.
3. Bhaktapur Durbar Square — The Best-Preserved Medieval City
The furthest of the three from the capital, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the most atmospheric. Founded in the 14th century, it was once the grandest of the three squares, home to 99 royal courtyards. Earthquakes have reduced that number to around 15, but what remains is spectacular. The square is dominated by the Nyatapola Temple, a five-story pagoda that is the tallest of its kind in Nepal.
Must-See Attractions
- Nyatapola Temple — a 5-tier pagoda with guardians sculpted to withstand earthquakes.
- 55-Window Palace — a masterpiece of brick and woodwork.
- Golden Gate (Sundhoka) — considered one of the most beautiful metal artworks in Asia.
- Pottery Square — watch artisans shape clay the way they have for centuries.
Visitor Tips
Bhaktapur charges a separate entry fee for foreign visitors, which helps fund conservation. The city is famous for juju dhau ("king curd") — don't leave without trying a bowl.
Practical Information for Visitors
| Site | Location | Approx. Entry (Foreign) |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu Durbar Square | Kathmandu | NPR 1,000 |
| Patan Durbar Square | Lalitpur | NPR 1,000 |
| Bhaktapur Durbar Square | Bhaktapur | NPR 1,500 |
Best time to visit: October–November (post-monsoon, clear skies) and March–April (spring festivals). How to get there: All three squares are within a 30-minute drive of each other; taxis and ride apps are plentiful. Dress code: Modest clothing is respected, especially when entering temples.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the three Durbar Squares worth visiting if I only have one day?
A: Yes. They are close together and each offers a distinct atmosphere — Kathmandu for royalty, Patan for art, Bhaktapur for medieval calm.
Q: Is the Kathmandu Durbar Square ticket valid for all monuments?
A: The ticket covers the main square and palace museums; some inner temples may charge small local fees.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is allowed in the squares. Drones require prior permission from local authorities.
Q: Which square is best for families?
A: Bhaktapur is stroller-friendly with open courtyards, while Patan offers the excellent children's museum nearby.
Q: Do the squares open during festivals?
A: Yes, and festivals like Indra Jatra and Bisket Jatra are the best times to see the squares come alive.
Final Word
These three Durbar Squares are not just tourist stops — they are the cultural soul of Nepal. Whether you are a history lover, a photographer, or a spiritual seeker, the top 3 sites to visit in Nepal all sit within this one remarkable valley. Plan a few days, wear comfortable shoes, and let the carved gods and goddesses tell you their stories.