Durbar Square, Kathmandu

Durbar Square, the heart of the ancient city of Kathmandu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a spectacular testament to the architectural prowess of the Newar artisans of the Kathmandu Valley. This historical plaza is surrounded by age-old temples, palaces, courtyards, and streets that date back to the 12th to 18th centuries, showcasing the city's rich cultural and religious heritage.

The centerpiece of the square is the old Royal Palace (Hanuman Dhoka), a complex of buildings which was the seat of the Nepalese monarchy until the 19th century. The palace is named after a statue of Hanuman, the monkey deity, which guards its entrance. Intricately carved wooden windows and panels adorn the palace walls, a hallmark of traditional Newar architecture.

Around the square, visitors can admire a variety of pagoda and shikhara-style temples, dedicated to different deities, and built by various kings. Notable structures include the Maju Deval, a five-story pagoda dedicated to Shiva; the Taleju Temple, a towering temple that is off-limits to the public except for one day a year; and the Kumari Bahal, a building that houses the living goddess Kumari.

Durbar Square is not only an architectural marvel but also a vibrant hub of daily activity. It is a place where locals gather for social and religious events, and where tourists can immerse themselves in the city's historical narrative. Street vendors, pilgrims, and sadhus (holy men) are a common sight, contributing to the square's lively atmosphere.

Despite suffering significant damage during the 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts have been ongoing, and many of the square's monuments stand as a proud reflection of Kathmandu's resilience and dedication to preserving its cultural legacy.