Bhaktapur

From Halal Explorer

Bhaktapur (भक्तपुर) is a city in Nepal known variously as City of Culture, Living Heritage, Nepal's Cultural Gem, An open museum and a City of Devotees. Bhaktapur is an ancient city and is well known for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances and the indigenous lifestyle of the Newari community. It is just 12 kilometers east of Kathmandu and the modern capital of Nepal, but you may feel a bit like you've gone back to the Middle Ages, given the ambiance of traditional homes, lifestyles and environment here. The conch-shaped historic city is spread over an area of 6.9 m2 at an altitude of 1,401 meters. Bhaktapur was founded in the 12th century by King Anand Dev Malla and was the former national capital of the Greater Malla Kingdom in the Kathmandu Valley till the 15th century AD. Many of Bhaktapur's greatest monuments were built during the Malla period.

Bhaktapur Halal Travel Guide

Bhaktapur has more temples per square metre than Patan or Kathmandu and is far enough out of the city to keep the crowds away. As a World Heritage site listed by the UNESCO, Bhaktapur has been heavily restored following an earthquake in 1934 which severely damaged the city, but you will still see signs of damage from the 2015 quakes.

Travel to Bhaktapur

Lord Dattatreya from Devgad - Lord Dattatreya from Devgad

If you are not arriving as part of a tour group, you may take mini bus (bound for Kamal Binayak stop in Bhaktapur) or big bus (bound for Chyamasingha stop in Bhaktapur) from the bus stop near Bhadrakali. You can save time by taking Express Bus (this does not stop in between except in Maitighar and Sallaghari) from Bagbazar in Kathmandu. Recently, micro buses also started service of shuttling between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, which provide a fairly quick way to get to Bhaktapur.

For those who haven't experienced a public bus in South Asia, it will be a way to (literally) rub shoulders with local residents. In either case it takes about 40–60 minutes and drops you off just outside of the city. The fare from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur was roughly NPR35 in Sept. 2009 by bus for local people. The average cost for a one way taxi from Thamel to Bhaktapur is NPR800-1000 for the 16 km drive. You can easily hail a taxi or pick up a return bus to either Patan or Kathmandu just outside of the first main gate that leads into the city.

Get Around in Bhaktapur

Once in Bhaktapur, walking is the best way to experience the quiet, dusty lanes squares. Rickshaws, tuk-tuks or taxis are not allowed inside the city: an inconvenience more than made up for by the quiet and clean air. However, local residents are permitted to use motorbikes and consequently some caution is needed when walking around the narrow streets.

What to See

The primary reason for visiting Bhaktapur is because its Durbar Plaza is one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Khatmandu Valley. There are other worthwhile things to see as well.

Insides

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Plaza was the seat of royalty before 1769 AD. The building now houses the National Art Gallery. It has a famous Golden Gate dating back to 1756 AD and is the entrance to the marvelous Taleju Temple Complex and number of artistic courtyards including the Royal Bath pond. The Big Bell in the square was erected by Ranajit Malla (1722–1769), last Malla king of Bhaktapur and was used for paying homage to Goddess Taleju and for assemblies of the general public. The entrance fee for Foreign Muslims is 1500 NPR, which is used to partly fund repairs following the 2015 earthquake. If you plan to visit for several days, you can ask the counter to add a note to permit access to the city with the same ticket (at most one week). Visitors from SAARC member countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) and China pay NPR100.

NP-bhakt-nyatapola-temple - Nyataponla Temple

  • Taumadhi Plaza'sNyataponla Temple dates back to 1702 AD. The colossal five-storied edifice is the nation's tallest pagoda temple. The struts, doors, windows and tympanums, each embellished with attractively carved divine figures, portray the creative tradition of Newar craftsmen. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Siddhi Laxmi and the manifestation of female force and creativity. Next to the Nyataponla Temple is the rectangular shaped Bhairavnath Temple. It houses a gilded bust of Bhairav and the ferocious manifestation of Lord Shiva. The three-storied pagoda was razed to the grounds by the 1934 earthquake and its latest renovation was undertaken by the Bhaktapur Municipality in 1995 AD.
  • Dattatreya Plaza has the Dattatreya Temple is the main attraction of the Plaza. Constructed by King Yaksha Malla and the giant three-storied temple is believed to have been built with the trunk of a single tree. Having defied a series of calamities, it still bears testimony to the incredible achievement made in those regal days of Nepalese history.
  • Clay pots are molded and fired in the alleys adjacent to Pottery Plaza and the square itself is full of pottery drying in the sun. These items get exported around Nepal.
  • The Peacock Window, one of Nepal's signature sights
  • Hanumanghat: a collection of lingams (including Nepal's largest) and riverside cremation ghats.

Outsides

  • Changu Narayan | Changu - 4 kilometers to the north of Bhaktapur and 22 kilometers east of Kathmandu. ☎ +977 1 6614788the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley. Listed in the World Cultural Heritage List, it is also a scenic spot situated at an altitude of about 1700 meters. The most authentic inscription located in the precinct of Changu Narayan is dated 464 AD and is credited to the Lichhavi King Mandeva. Changu Narayan Temple, located high in the hill just to the north of Bhaktapur, is the oldest existing pagoda temples in Nepal. The temple was dedicated to Lord Vishnu by the Lichhavi King in the 5th century. It is said to be the oldest temple in the Valley. It was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979.
  • Surya Vinayak is located at the walking distance of about 2 km to the south of the city and is the holy shrine of god Ganesh and the Hindu god of well beginning and successful completion of work. The temple of Ganesh is placed in such as so as to catch the first rays of the rising sun. It is a good picnic spot flanked by many attractive landscapes.

Top Travel Tips

Shopping in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is a significant pottery centre. You will see it everywhere, drying in the sun, displayed on tables and shelves in front of shops and homes. The city is equally famous for artistic masks made from black clay with colourful decoration. The masks portray various gods and deities and carry special significance in festivals.

Thanka, a traditional type of painting, is also created in the city. Metalwork and jewellery can also be found, but there's more selection in Patan's backstreets.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Bhaktapur

Don't leave Bhaktapur without trying some of their famous yogurt with local honey: Juju-dhau, literally the "King of all yogurt." It's made from fresh buffalo (or sometimes cow) milk and is set to thicken in clay pots like those Bhaktapur is well known for.

Small local restaurants are found on the primary street into the city, but they will probably only serve Dhal Bhat Takari (lentils, Rice and mild vegetable curry) or Newari food: Samay Baji - flattened Rice, marinated Meat (usually buffalo and often offal), lentils, pickled vegetables, potatoes, bamboo shoot Curries, tea and momos.


Tourist restaurants can be found in almost every building surrounding the main squares. Here is a sampling: Bara-wa - |comment= An alley behind the five story temple in Taumin Plaza, in front of Black Olive restaurant GPS , |description=The ladies only sell one item: Bara-wa. It's a pan fried Rice patty, like uttapam, with an omelette cooked on top, topped with a light channa (chickpea) Curries. Marinated Meat is an optional add-on. 50 rupees. An additional 50 rupees for Meat. a local Newari joint - exiting Taumani square northeast, along the primary street, in an alley to the right, after the camera shop, on the right side with curtains covering all openings GPS , |description=Great local Newari food. It's best to go early afternoon. 10-30 rupees per dish.

  • Cafe Beyond Itachhen-15, Bhaktapur 27.67291,85.42614 Just outside of Durbar Plaza walk for 3 minutes after the front gate. Walk along the main street for 1 block, you can find it on your right hand side. ☎ +977016620622 Opening Hours: 06:00 to 21:00 Mains NPR400 Mainly Korean cuisine; most vegetables grown in local gardens.
  • Red Chilli Restaurant 27.67178,85.42789


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Coffee

  • Shiva's Cafe Corner - Durbar Plaza, Bhaktapur 27.67224,85.42837 ☎ +977 1 6610740 Opening Hours: 07:30-21:00 2-6 USD Cappchino, espresso, Americano and iced Coffee. Also serves Nepali dal bhat, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, Indian and Continental cuisine.

Alcohol

  • Black Olive 27.67190,85.42849 Near the Nyatapola Temple - Rooftop organic juice garden; serves food as well
  • SBC Store Suryavinayak - ☎ +977 1 076450, +977 1 171733 Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 All kinds of imported and domestic none-alcoholic drinks, soft drinks. They can deliver.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Bhaktapur, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bhaktapur. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Bhaktapur and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Bhaktapur. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Bhaktapur. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Bhaktapur: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Bhaktapur.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Bhaktapur: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Bhaktapur, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Bhaktapur.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Bhaktapur, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Bhaktapur, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Bhaktapur and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Bhaktapur, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Bhaktapur, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Bhaktapur without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bhaktapur is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Bhaktapur.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Bhaktapur is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Bhaktapur, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Bhaktapur Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Bhaktapur

eHalal Group Bhaktapur is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Bhaktapur. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Bhaktapur.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Bhaktapur ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Bhaktapur. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Bhaktapur, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Bhaktapur are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan Celebrations in Bhaktapur

Ramadan 2025 in Bhaktapur

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Bhaktapur can be a good alternative to Kathmandu for staying overnight because of its quiet streets and unique ambiance. Furthermore, it is located close to the Kathmandu international airport and on the road connecting Kathmandu and Kodari (Chinese border), which makes it particularly suited for spending the first night in Nepal.

  • Nyatapola Guesthouse Pottery Plaza , Bhaktapur 27.67037,85.42889 ☎ +977 1 6614599 A simple and clean bed-and-breakfast run by a family of woodcarvers on the upper floors of a traditional house on top of their art shop. Located in a small street connecting Pottery and Taumadhi squares in the heart of the old town. Semi-private doubles from NRP600
  • Shiva Guest House 1&2 @; Durbar Plaza11 , Bhaktapur - ☎ +977 1 6613912 +977 1-6610740 Check-in: 15:00 / Check-out: 12PM A traditional Newari house. Offers 24 rooms in two buildings, most with attached bath. Restaurant serving Nepali Dal Bhat, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, Indian and Continental cuisine. Free Wi-Fi

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There is an ATM next door and the guest houses accept Visa but add a small percentage to cover bank charges.

  • Pagoda Guesthouse & Cafe Taumadhi Plaza-11 27.67156,85.42917 Near Five-storied Temple ☎ +977 1 6613248 s/d US$20-30; without bathroom s/d US$15 Offers a rooftop restaurant; Wi-Fi
  • Golden Gate Guest House, between the Durbar and Taumadhi Plazas. ☎ 977-1-6610534, 6612427; Fax: 977-1-6611081, 6612607; E-mail: @* Bhaktapur Guest House P.O. Box 49, Bhaktapur - ☎ +977 1 610670, +977 1 661325* Peacock Guest House | Dattatraya Plaza, Bhaktapur 27.673427,85.434986 Dattatraya Sq and Bhimsen temple ☎ +977 1 6611829 USD7-10 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 Located at Dattatraya Plaza. Peaceful with attractive 15th century architecture.
  • Cosy Hotel - 1300 kmm - Pottery Plaza, Bhaktapur 12 27.670131,85.428379 In the downtown, Pottery Plaza ☎ +977 1 6616333 USD80 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 11:00phone:- +977 9841231795.

Telecommunications

News & References


Go Next

  • {{marker* GPS 27.71833,85.51964]]

Nagarkot is nestled on hill at altitude of 2,195 m to the north east of Bhaktapur at a distance of 18 km. It is well known for its panoramic view of mountains, sun rise and sun set. Nagarkot has availability of different types of lodgings of Five star hotels to small cottage lodges. Its one of the most scenic spots in Bhaktapur neighborhood and is well known for its stunning sunrise view of the Himalaya when the sky is clear. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east.

  • Pharping. A sacred site about forty minutes from Bhaktapur.
  • {{marker* GPS 85.42789,85.38656]]

Thimi - a town between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur well known for its pottery work. In addition to pottery, Thimi is known made for the making colourful masks of various deities, demons and animals. Thimi also produces many of the fresh vegetables in the Kathmandu valley. Like Bhaktapur, Thimi also comprises of lots of historical monuments and temples such as Siddhikali, Balkumari, Dachhin Barahi, etc.


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