Patan Durbar Square & Ancient Buddhist Vihars

Overview

Patan’s Timeless Treasures – Detailed Stops

1.Kumbheshwar Temple (14th century)

One of the only two five-tiered temples in the valley, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The sacred spring here is said to be connected to Gosainkunda, a holy lake in the Himalayas. Hosts Janai Purnima rituals in August.

2.Patan Museum Courtyard (Malla period, restored in the 1990s)

A tranquil palace courtyard turned museum. Admire fine Newari craftsmanship in wood and metal. The museum offers deep insight into Nepal’s sacred art, iconography, and architectural evolution.

3.Krishna Mandir (Built in 1637 AD by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla)

A stunning Shikhara-style stone temple, unique in the valley. The 21 golden pinnacles and stone carvings depict scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. This temple becomes the epicenter during Krishna Janmashtami.

4.Bhimsen Temple & Nearby Shrines (17th century)

Dedicated to Bhimsen, the patron god of trade and business. The temple features richly carved struts and window panels. Nearby shrines reflect Patan’s merchant history and Newar religious syncretism.

5.Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple) (Founded in the 12th century)

A hidden Buddhist monastery with golden façade, prayer wheels, and statues. Still in use by the Newar Buddhist community, it represents a rare blend of Theravada and Mahayana traditions.

6.Sundari Chowk & Tusha Hiti (17th century)

This royal courtyard features Tusha Hiti, a beautifully carved ritual bath once used by Malla kings. Surrounded by intricate stone and wood carvings, it reflects regal lifestyle and tantric symbolism.

7.Mahabouddha Temple (Built in the late 16th century)

Called the “Temple of a Thousand Buddhas”, it is crafted entirely from terracotta bricks, each embossed with tiny Buddha images. Inspired by Indian Buddhist temple architecture, it is a rare sight in Nepal.

8.Traditional Metalwork Alley

A narrow street where artisans forge bronze and copper statues of deities using ancient lost-wax casting techniques. You can witness live sculpting and understand how sacred art is created.

9.Kwa Bahal (Golden Temple Courtyard) (Different from Hiranya Varna; 14th century)

A serene Buddhist monastery rich in ritual, silence, and artistry. Surrounded by carved toranas, metal lions, and prayer wheels. Devotees offer butter lamps daily.

10.Nag Bahal (Historic Newar courtyard)

One of Patan’s best-preserved community courtyards, centered around a Naga (serpent) shrine. Offers a peaceful glimpse into everyday Newar residential life and faith.

11.Rooftop Views (Optional)

Climb up a nearby café or temple terrace for an aerial view of Patan Durbar Square. On a clear day, catch the distant Ganesh Himal and Langtang range framing the cityscape.

Cultural Highlights

Rato Machhendranath Rath Jatra (May–June)

A grand chariot festival where the deity Rato Machhendranath, patron of rain and prosperity, is pulled across Patan over several weeks. Ends in Jawalakhel with the Bhoto Jatra, the ritual showing of a sacred vest.

Krishna Janmashtami (July–August)

A major celebration at Krishna Mandir, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. Devotees observe fasting, singing, lamp offerings, and spiritual gatherings throughout the night.

Lunch – Traditional Newari Cuisine

Pause at a local eatery like Honacha, near the square. Sample classic dishes:

• Samay Baji– festival platter with flattened rice, soybeans, meat, egg, and pickle
• Chhoila– grilled, spiced meat
• Bara– deep-fried lentil patties
• Juju Dhau– Bhaktapur-style creamy yogurt, a Patan favorite too