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Discover Patan Durbar Square and Its Famous Hindu Temples

Step into the historic heart of Lalitpur to explore Patan Durbar Square, home to magnificent Patan Hindu temples rich in culture, art, and spirituality.

Panoramic view of Patan Durbar Square with temples and courtyards

Why Visit Patan’s Hindu Temples?

Spiritual Richness and Architectural Grandeur

Witness the exquisite carvings of Krishna Mandir Patan, a 17th-century marvel telling stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Explore the guardian Taleju Bhawani Temple Patan, restricted to Hindus, honoring the patron deity of Patan’s Malla kings.

Discover the serene beauty of Golden Temple Patan and the intricate Mahaboudha Temple Patan, exemplifying Newari craftsmanship.

Over 50 major temples in the Square
7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites nearby
Centuries of Malla dynasty influence
Thousands of festival visitors annually

The Heritage and Architecture of Patan Durbar Square

Malla Dynasty’s Artistic Legacy

The Patan Durbar Square history dates back centuries, with the Malla dynasty commissioning palaces and temples to exemplify authority and cultural glory. The blend of Newari architecture Patan—featuring carved wood, ornate windows, and tiered pagoda roofs—is exemplified by famous sites like Rato Machhindranath Temple Patan and Mul Chowk Patan.

The Sundari Chowk Patan Durbar hosts royal ceremonies met with intricate brickwork and carvings, preserving rich traditions to this day.

Detailed temple carvings on a Patan temple Crowds worshiping in a courtyard of Patan Durbar Square

Iconic Temples in Patan

Krishna Mandir Patan

Built in 1667, Krishna Mandir is a Shikhara-style temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, featuring 21 golden pinnacles and intricate stone carvings of Hindu epics.

Exterior stone carvings of Krishna Mandir Patan

Taleju Bhawani Temple

The royal temple of Patan royalty, closed to non-Hindus, dedicated to the goddess Taleju, symbolizing protection and devotion.

Temple tower and decorations of Taleju Bhawani Temple

Patan Museum and Golden Temple

Explore the royal museum showcasing Newari art and the serene Buddhist Golden Temple Patan, revealing Patan’s religious harmony.

Golden Temple Patan courtyard with brass decorations

Visitor Essentials for Patan Durbar Square

Plan to visit temples during festivals like Krishna Janmashtami, Rato Machhindranath Jatra, for vibrant rituals. Respect temple rules; some remain closed to non-Hindus. Local markets offer crafts and souvenirs.

Easy access from Kathmandu Guided temple tours available Rich Newari cultural experiences
UNESCO World Heritage Site Local art and handicrafts

Festivals and Cultural Experiences

Patan is alive with festivals that blend Hindu and Buddhist traditions, with temples becoming centers of vibrant devotion and artistic expression.

Festival crowd with traditional dancers in Patan

Architecture and Artistry of Patan

Carvings, Pagodas and Spiritual Symbols

Patan’s temples showcase exquisite Newari architecture Patan, combining religious devotion with artistic excellence. From stone reliefs on Bhimsen Temple Patan to murals and brass statues, the square is a living museum of Nepalese culture.

Additional Insights:

  • ✓ Explore the artistic mastery of Newari architecture Patan
  • ✓ Discover the blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions
  • ✓ Witness the living cultural heritage of the Malla era

Explore Patan’s Ancient Temples and Cultural Heart

Embark on a journey through Patan’s temples and history for an unforgettable spiritual and artistic experience.

Book Your Patan Temple Tour

Twilight view of Patan temple rooftops and spires

Must-See Patan Temples Summary

  • ✓ Krishna Mandir Patan
  • ✓ Taleju Bhawani Temple
  • ✓ Golden Temple Patan
  • ✓ Mahaboudha Temple
  • ✓ Rato Machhindranath Temple
  • ✓ Sundari Chowk & Mul Chowk

Patan Hindu Temples FAQs

Find practical tips for visiting Patan temples, history, and cultural insights.

What are the opening hours of Patan Durbar Square?
The square itself is an open area, accessible 24/7. However, the Patan Museum and some specific temples like Krishna Mandir Patan and courtyards have set hours, usually from 10 am to 5 pm.
Which temples are accessible to the public?
Most outer courtyards and temples like the Golden Temple Patan are open. However, the main inner courtyard of the Royal Palace and the Taleju Bhawani Temple Patan are strictly restricted to Hindus.
Can I photograph inside the temples?
Photography of the exteriors and courtyards is generally allowed. However, taking photos inside the main shrines of active Patan Hindu temples (especially of the deities) is strictly prohibited.
What festivals can I witness in Patan?
Major festivals include Krishna Janmashtami (at Krishna Mandir Patan), the Rato Machhindranath Jatra (chariot festival), and various Newari religious and cultural events.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, accredited guides are available at the entrance to the square. They can provide deep insights into the Patan Durbar Square history, Newari architecture, and the significance of sites like Mul Chowk Patan.
How to reach Patan from Kathmandu?
Patan is easily accessible from Kathmandu by taxi, local bus, or microbus. It's a short 20-30 minute ride, depending on traffic conditions.
What is the significance of Krishna Mandir?
The Krishna Mandir Patan is unique as it is built entirely of stone in the Shikhara style, unlike the more common pagoda style. It is the most important Krishna temple in Nepal.
Are there entry fees for Patan temples?
There is an entrance fee for foreign visitors to enter the Patan Durbar Square area, which covers access to the exterior of the palace and major surrounding temples. Patan Museum has a separate fee.
Where is the best place to buy souvenirs?
Patan is known as the city of fine arts. Nearby streets, particularly around the Golden Temple Patan, are ideal for purchasing high-quality Newari metalwork, statues, and handicrafts.
Are there religious rituals I can join?
You can observe many daily rituals and *pujas* performed by devotees. Joining is usually not permitted, but you can quietly watch, particularly in the courtyards like Mul Chowk Patan and at smaller shrines.
How do I respect local customs?
Dress modestly, particularly when visiting active Patan Hindu temples. Always walk clockwise around religious structures. Do not touch offerings, and remove shoes and leather items before entering certain shrines.
Is Patan wheelchair-friendly?
The main grounds of Patan Durbar Square are relatively flat, but the uneven brickwork, raised plinths of the temples, and steps make access to interior buildings challenging for wheelchairs.

Discover the Spiritual and Cultural Riches of Patan

Visit Patan’s enchanting temples for a deep dive into Nepalese heritage, art, and faith.

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