Bhaktapur
In pre-modern times, Kathmandu Valley was divided into three Newar kingdoms: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhadgaon. These three kingdoms are represented in the modern “cities” in their place: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. For each of these kingdoms, there was a holy square of temples where they raised the king. These squares situated opposite the royal palaces were known as “durbar” squares.
Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur Durbar Kshetra) was badly damanged during the 2016 Earthquake. Bhaktapur also suffered devastating damage, but is on the mend. Here, we’re grabbing tea and watching both tourists and local worshippers from one of the teahouses in Bhaktapur square.
