Bhaktapur is also known as "the city of Devotees". It is located 14 km east of the capital. The ancient city covers an area of four square miles, which still retains its medieval charms and treats its visitors with many wonders of historical, cultural and artistic achievements. The historic city was the capital of Kathmandu Valley between the 14th and 16th centuries. Much of the town's great architecture dates from the end of the 17th century during the rule of King Bhupatindra Malla before the valley was divided into three smaller kingdoms (Bhaktapur, Patan and Kathmandu). The major tourist attractions of Bhaktapur are: Bhaktapur Durbar Square (a world heritage site), Taumadhi Square, Nyatapola Temple, Dattatraya Square and Pottery Square. You can still notice the past glory of the Malla rulers at the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Dattatraya Temple is said to have been built from the trunk of a single tree in 1427AD, during the reign of King Yakchhya Malla..

Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like the lion gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the picture gallery, the golden gate, the palace of 55 windows, the batsala temple and the bell of barking dogs, etc. The statue of the King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace of the many statues available in Nepal this is considered to be the most magnificent.

The Golden Gate:
The Golden Gate is the entrance to the main countyard of the palace of 55 windows. Built King Ranjit Malla, the gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world. This gate is embellished with deities and monsters of marvelous intricacy.

The National Art Gallery:
Contains ancient and medieval paintings belonging to Hindu and Buddhist schools depicting Tantrism of various periods and descriptions.

Nyatapola Temple:
This five storey Pagoda was built in 1702 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla. It stands in a five-terraced platform. On each of the terraces squat a pair of figures; two famous wrestlers, two Elephants, two Lions, two Griffins and “Baghini” and “Singhini” - the Tiger and the Lion Goddesses. This is one of the tallest Pagodas and is famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.

The Palace of 55 Windows:
The Palace of 55 Windows was built in the 17th century by King Bhupatindra Malla. Among the brick walls with their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows. This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving. The Stone Temple of Batsala Devi which is also located in the Durbar Square is full of intricate carvings. This temple also sets a beautiful example of Shikhara style of architecture in Nepal. There is a bronze be on the terrace of the temple which is also known as the “bell of barking dogs”. This colossal bell, placed in 1737 A.D. was used to sound curfew during that time.

Bhairavnath Temple:
This temple was first built as a one storey pagoda but later changed into a three storey temple in 1718 A.D. by king bhupatindra malla. The temple is noted for its artistic grandeur. It is dedicated to lord bhairav- the god of terror.

Changu Narayan:
Situated at the end of a long ridge which runs well into the valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 A.D. and said to be the oldest temple in the valley.

Dattatraya Temple:
Built in 1427 A.D. this temple is said to have been built from trunk of a single tree. Near this temple is a monastery with exquisitely carved peacock windows.