Old durbar

Old Durbar Square

Old Durbar Square (also called Basantapur Durbar Square) is a famous historic palace square in the center of Kathmandu. It was the royal palace area of the ancient kings of Nepal and is one of the country’s most important cultural heritage sites.

🏛️ Key Facts
• Built mainly during the Malla dynasty (12th–18th century).
• Later used by the kings of the Kingdom of Nepal from the Hanuman Dhoka Palace.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

🏯 Important Attractions in the Square
• Hanuman Dhoka Palace – the old royal palace of Nepali kings.
• Kumari Ghar – home of the Living Goddess Kumari.
• Taleju Temple – a tall temple dedicated to Goddess Taleju.
• Kasthamandap – the structure from which Kathmandu got its name.

🌏 Cultural Importance
• Major place for festivals like Indra Jatra.
• Shows traditional Newari architecture with carved wooden windows and temples.
• Popular tourist and heritage site in Nepal.

⚠️ Earthquake Damage

Many structures were damaged during the 2015 Nepal earthquake, but restoration work is ongoing.

✅ Today it is one of the most visited places in Nepal for history, culture, and photography.

If you want, I can also tell you:
• hidden places inside Durbar Square
• best time to visit
• entry fee for foreigners and Nepali visitors.