Basantapur Durbar Square
Historic Squares
A lot has been written about the facts and figures, stories and histories, myths and legends associated with the Durbar squares in Kathmandu valley. The durbar squares have evolved from playing a role as the center of royal activity to a cultural hub shaping new generations by serving as a socio-cultural gathering hub in the middle of three of the most densely populated areas of the country.
A reminder of the lavish royal lives inside the valley, the squares are aesthetically impeccable structures that exude their lively aura into the whole surrounding. Although its construction dates back to the Lichhavi dynasty nothing much remains from that period due to repeated renovations under different rulers. Much of that remains is the legacy of the Malla dynasty. Although constructed early, these palaces became the royal residence after King Ratna Malla made Kathmandu independent.
As the first ruler of the Valley, King Ratna Malla is said to have constructed the Taleju temple in the northern side of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Prithvi Narayan Shah came along to replace the Narayan temple with Bhagavati shrine. Legacies extend across all the squares as each of them is comprised of endowments from all those who ruled. The 55-window palace and Nyatapola in Bhaktapur durbar square took multiple generations to get completed. The artistic square of Patan has a significant Shikhar style Krishna mandir and is accompanied by a fantastic museum.
Durbar Squares Today
The 3 Durbar squares in the culturally and aesthetically rich valley of Kathmandu, are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. With countless stories in between them, lets see how the Kathmandu Durbar Square went from a King’s palace to a social nerve center for today’s republic. With scriptures and spectacular architectures constituting the beloved square, it represents a place that has not forgotten its roots while embracing the dynamic present.
The durbar square is as dynamic as every era that contributed to this heritage site. Believed to be a royal residence since the 17th century, the square has been a home to multiple dynasties. Now after the kings and noblemen, the courtyard has been handed over to the people. The people shape the new life of the place as it shapes theirs. From teenagers hanging out to adults holding casual meetings, the basantapur durbar square is the nucleus of the capital.
Thanks to shops like ZY and Narayan dai ko masangalli ko famous Mo:Mo, the basantapur durbar square is vibrant and full of life. Local businesses are scattered across its surroundings to help users gather the best experience of the ancient structure while also appreciating the comforts of today. The fine structures in the premises help organize the lives of everyone hanging out there.
There are destinations famed for fine food, art and culture. The histories attached with it gives Kathmanduites a network between their past and the present. Characters from numerous backstories connect in this place to create a common space for everyone. It adds value to their lives by immersing people with imprints left by generations that came before. Although damaged by the unfortunate calamities of 2015, the place still holds equal significance. The events perspire more tales and leaves more value to be absorbed by future generations.
Attached to the heartbeat of the city, Basantapur Durbar square hosts each and every visitor. It branches into nearby communities to inject healthy doses of information, history, heritage and enjoyment. Festivities held every other day symbolizes the rich neighborhood that still aspires to refine the rich heritage for travelers and locals alike. Festivals like the famous Indra Jatra is centered in this square as the chariot of the Goddess moves through the surrounding localities. The dances of the holy figures, the godly quarrels and the enchantment of the stories roam around with the festival through the neighborhoods while some enjoy from their balconies and some decide to immerse into the festive mood.
Unlike many other heritage sites you would visit in the world, the UNESCO heritage sites in Nepal are very much vibrant with locals using the space for daily rituals so you can experience snippets of nepali culture. This is a must-visit site for those who want to experience the living histories of Kathmandu Valley.
Streets of Asan, leading from Thamel to Durbar Square.