Kathmandu Durbar Square, also called Basantapur or Hanuman Dhoka, was the seat of the Malla and later Shah kings of Kathmandu. Its maze of courtyards, pagoda temples, stone statues and palace buildings is part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the old city's busiest bazaars start right at its edge.
Several buildings were badly damaged in the 2015 earthquake and have since been carefully rebuilt, including the ancient wooden pavilion of Kasthamandap, from which Kathmandu is said to take its name.
Quick answer: Kathmandu Durbar Square is about 15 minutes' walk south of Thamel. See the Hanuman Dhoka palace, the Kumari Ghar, home of the living goddess, Kasthamandap and the temples around the square. Foreigners pay an entry fee. Allow 2–3 hours, ideally with a guide.
Kathmandu Durbar Square at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Old city, about 15 minutes' walk from Thamel |
| UNESCO | Part of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site |
| Highlights | Hanuman Dhoka palace, Kumari Ghar, Kasthamandap, Taleju Temple |
| Entry | Fee for foreign visitors |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Festival | Indra Jatra (usually September) |
What to see
- Hanuman Dhoka, the old royal palace and its museum.
- Kumari Ghar, the house of the Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a living goddess.
- Kasthamandap, the rebuilt wooden pavilion.
- Taleju Temple, the tallest in the square.
- Kal Bhairav, a huge stone image of Shiva in his fierce form.
- Basantapur Tower and the old Freak Street nearby.
Tips
- Hire a licensed guide at the entrance to understand the history.
- Photography of the Kumari is not allowed.
- Walk on through Indra Chowk and Asan bazaars to Thamel.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Start your Kathmandu sightseeing here, then walk north through the old bazaars. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.