Bhaktapur or Bhadgaon, literally the ‘City of Devotees’ is a major tourist destination that takes visitors back in time. Bhaktapur lies on the Arniko Highway that connects Kathmandu to the Chinese border. Bhaktapur is still untouched by rapid urbanization and has managed to retain its brick-paved roads, charming red brick houses, and a way of life that goes back to medieval times. This ancient city is also famous for pottery and woodcarving amply displayed on the squares and windows respectively.
The extraordinary Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its monuments reflect the glory days of the Malla Dynasty when art and architecture thrived in the three cities of the valley.
In Bhaktapur Durbar Square, visit the Nyatapola Temple, the unique Temple that literally means ‘five storied’ and rises above the city’s landscape as a remarkable landmark.
Bhairavnath Temple, dedicated to Bhairav, the God of Terror, is a three-storied temple noted for its artistic grandeur and stands adjacent to the famous five-storied Nyatapola Temple.
The Golden Gate is the entrance to the 15th-century Palace of 55 Carved Windows. The golden gate is a masterpiece in repousse art, which has added splendor to this palace square that consists of buildings dating from the 13th century to the 18th century.
You can also stroll around Taumadhi Tole, a short street lined with tourist shops.
Bhaktapur was one of the most affected areas by the April 2015 earthquake. Renovation is currently under process.
Nagarkot is situated 30 km northeast of Kathmandu city. From here one can see the majestic Mount Everest and other snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas. The top of Nagarkot encompasses more than 200 miles of snowcapped peaks, from Annapurna in the west beyond Everest in the east. It also offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. Nagarkot is a renowned international tourist destination with spectacular views of the whole Langtang range, sunrise over the mountains, and sunset views. It is a popular overnight holiday destination away from the hustle and bustle of the city.