Basantapur Durbar Square

The square contains multiple temples and palaces featuring traditional Newar architecture with intricate wooden carvings and ornate stone sculptures throughout the complex.

Dating back to the 3rd century, Basantapur Durbar Square served as the residence of Nepalese royalty until the 19th century under both Malla and Shah dynasties.

The Kumari Bahal houses Nepal's living goddess, a young girl selected through religious ceremonies to represent the divine embodiment of Durga.

Foreign visitors need to pay an entrance fee of 1200 Nepalese rupees, while SAARC nationals receive a reduced rate of 240 rupees.

The nine-story Nautalle Durbar palace within the square features erotic carvings on its wooden beams, believed to protect against lightning strikes.

Location: Kathmandu

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Fee: Yes

Part of: Kathmandu Valley

GPS coordinates: 27.70407,85.30708

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:35