Patan Durbar Square: Symbol of Newari craftsmanship

Astounding pristine Newari art and craftsmanship that flourished during the Malla rulers’ period are vividly tangible at Patan Durbar Square for any inquisitive domestic visitor or foreign tourists.

The massive workload of temple construction actually began from 14 to 18th centuries of Malla period, especially in the reign of King Sidhinarsingh Malla (1619-60).

It is not very far from Kathmandu city. It is located in Lalitpur, Patan city which is at a stone’s throw from Thamel. You may take a cab or board a local bus to reach there in half an hour and then enjoy the marvelous sight of this ancient temple, considered one of the rare and unique ancient temples in Asia.

As a matter of fact, Patan Durbar Square built-in 12 century, is not only the epitome of historic Newari arts and architecture but also the royal palace of Malla rulers which is the epitome of ancient Malla kings along with legends and legacies pertinent to them.

Its fame is further heightened by the Krishna temple (temple dedicated to Lord Krishna), built-in 17th century by Malla rulers to represent the incarnation of Lord Vishnu thereby establishing a religious fact that many of Newari people were influenced by Hindu theologies and myths.

The temple is completely made of stones and 21 shrines and possibly one of the oldest artistic Buddhist cities in the world with a unique heritage to share with the outside world.
Located on the bank of Bagmati River, Patan is known by another name- Lalitpur- and is surrounded by 4 stupas in all 4 corners of the city.

It was Indian emperor Ashoka, who is said have come to Nepal during the Kirant era and built these 4 stupas to commemorate his arrival.

Of course, Patan has spectacular things like ancient Buddhist monuments, Shrines, Hindu temples, bronze gateways, and guardian deities.

Patan Durbar also harbors a museum containing vista of outlandish bronze statues and religious objects.

The square has three main courtyards viz: Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk, and Keshav Narayan Chowk. The bronze statues found within this Darbar square is deemed to be one of the finest museums in Asia.

The square has a three-storeyed Lokeshwar’s (Lord Buddha-golden image) golden pagoda, built-in 12th century by King Bhaskar.

The golden temple of Buddha built in the 12th century is well known for its gold works in artistic tapestry, thereby showing a religious symbiosis of Buddhist and Hindu religious faiths among the adherent devotees in Kathmandu valley.

The temple of Lord Krishna indicates towards the epic war of Ramayana and Mahabharata, which can be witnessed in the frescos. King Siddhi Narasingha Malla built a golden window to show his devotion to Lord Krishna.