Bhaktapur is one of the best cities in Nepal if you love culture, history, and quiet streets. It is also great for photography. Almost every corner has something interesting to see: old brick houses, wooden windows, temples, squares, and daily local life.
This guide explains the best places to visit in Bhaktapur in simple words. You can use it whether you are a first-time visitor, a culture lover, or someone who likes taking photos with a camera or phone.If you want a simple overview of the city before exploring this topic, you can also read our Bhaktapur Travel Guide, which explains the culture, squares, food, and daily life of the old city.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square – The Main Attraction and Top Photography Spot
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the center of the old city and one of the most important Bhaktapur attractions. It is full of ancient buildings, open courtyards, temples, and detailed wood and stone work.
Why Bhaktapur Durbar Square is special
You can see the famous 55-Window Palace
The Golden Gate is beautifully carved
There are stone statues, bells, and shrines
The area is clean, walkable, and calm
It is easy to spend a lot of time here just walking slowly, sitting on temple steps, and watching people go about their day.
Photography tips for Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Morning light is soft and good for photos
Take wide shots of the entire square
Zoom in on carvings, windows, and door details
Capture people walking, praying, or sitting in the square
This is one of the best Bhaktapur photography spots for both wide views and close-up details.
Taumadhi Square and Nyatapola Temple – Culture and Photos in One Place
Taumadhi Square is another busy and important square, and it is home to Nyatapola Temple, one of the tallest temples in Nepal.
Why Nyatapola Temple is one of the best places to visit in Bhaktapur
It has a strong five-story pagoda design
The temple has survived major earthquakes
The stone statues on the staircase are impressive
The square is full of local life, shops, and small eateries
You can sit on the steps of the temple and look over the whole square. It gives you a good view of the city’s daily activity.
Photography tips for Taumadhi Square
Take photos from the bottom of the temple steps to show the full height
Capture people sitting on the steps or walking through the square
Try side angles to include both Nyatapola and the shops around it
Late afternoon and early evening are good times for softer light
This spot is perfect if you want both culture and photography in the same place.
Pottery Square – One of the Most Cultural Places to Visit in Bhaktapur
Pottery Square is a great place to see traditional work in action. The open area is filled with clay pots laid out to dry, and potters sit at their wheels shaping clay.
Why Pottery Square is worth visiting
Pottery is a traditional skill passed down through generations
You can watch potters work from very close
The square has a strong local feel
You can buy clay items as souvenirs
The scene of rows of pots, old brick houses, and people working quietly makes this square very special.
Photography tips for Pottery Square
Take photos of the rows of pots from above or from the side
Focus on potters’ hands while they work
Capture the contrast between clay, brick, and sunlight
Morning is the best time to see active work and good light
This is one of the best Bhaktapur photography spots for natural, real-life images.
Dattatreya Square – Art, History, and Calm Streets
Dattatreya Square feels older and quieter than the other main squares. It has important temples, traditional houses, and beautiful windows.
Why Dattatreya Square is an important Bhaktapur attraction
It is home to Dattatreya Temple
You can see the famous Peacock Window, a detailed wood carving
The area has a woodcarving museum
There are old Newari houses and calm courtyards
This is a good place for slow walking and looking closely at details.
Photography tips for Dattatreya Square
Capture the Peacock Window from a straight angle
Photograph the temple from different sides
Focus on windows, doors, and balcony carvings
Take photos of locals sitting on wooden platforms (pati)
If you like architecture and calm surroundings, this square is perfect.
Siddha Pokhari – A Peaceful Place for Reflections and Simple Photos
Siddha Pokhari is a large rectangular pond a little away from the main squares. It is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Bhaktapur.
Why Siddha Pokhari is worth your time
The pond is surrounded by stone steps
People come here to walk, sit, and relax
You can see old houses and trees reflected in the water
The area feels open and quiet
Photography tips for Siddha Pokhari
Early morning and late afternoon give good reflections
Try taking photos of the steps, water, and people together
Use reflections to create simple and clean images
You can also photograph birds and the surrounding scenery
It is a good break from the busier squares and ideal if you like calm places.
Narrow Alleys and Courtyards – Real Life and Hidden Scenes
Some of the best Bhaktapur attractions are not famous by name. They are the narrow lanes and open courtyards inside the old city.
What you can see in Bhaktapur’s alleys
Women drying grains, chilies, or vegetables on mats
Small shrines and tiny temples at street corners
Children playing and running
Men chatting over tea at small wooden platforms
Clothes hanging from balconies, giving color to the streets
These small moments show how people live in Bhaktapur every day.
Photography tips for alleys and courtyards
Walk slowly and be observant
Ask permission before taking close-up photos of people
Use natural light and avoid flash
Capture daily activities rather than posed shots
These photos often turn out to be the most meaningful.
Temples and Shrines Around the City – Small but Important
Apart from major temples like Nyatapola and Dattatreya, there are many small temples and shrines around Bhaktapur.
Why they matter
They show how faith is part of daily life
People stop to pray even while going to work or the market
Many are old, with simple but strong designs
You may see stone idols, small lingams, bells, and prayer flags in different corners of the city.
Photography ideas
Capture people making offerings
Take simple shots of bells, lamps, and flowers
Use close-up photos to show texture and age
These details add depth to your visual story of Bhaktapur.
Morning Markets – Local Life and Movement
If you want to see Bhaktapur when it feels most active, visit the small local markets in the morning.
What you will see
Fresh vegetables and fruits
People carrying baskets and bags
Flowers for temples
Simple breakfast stalls
Morning markets are noisy, busy, and full of energy, but still friendly and safe.
Photography tips
Visit between 6–8 a.m. for the best activity and light
Capture people interacting, weighing goods, or arranging items
Focus on colors: fruits, vegetables, clothes, and umbrellas
Hold your camera steady and be patient
Markets are great for showing real life in Bhaktapur.
Final Thoughts
Bhaktapur is a city where culture, history, and daily life are closely connected. The best places to visit in Bhaktapur are not only the big temples and squares, but also the simple streets, quiet ponds, small shrines, and local markets.
If you move slowly, look carefully, and stay curious, you will find many beautiful scenes to enjoy and photograph. You do not need to rush. Just walk, watch, and let Bhaktapur show itself to you. If you want to explore Bhaktapur in local way, book your experience at Nepal Homestays.
FAQs
1. What is the most important place to visit in Bhaktapur?
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the main highlight and should be at the top of your list.
2. Is Bhaktapur good for photography?
Yes. The old streets, temples, squares, and daily life make it one of the best cities in Nepal for photography.
3. How long should I stay in Bhaktapur?
One full day is enough to see the main places, but staying one night gives you time for both sunrise and sunset.
4. Are the main places to visit in Bhaktapur close to each other?
Yes. Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Pottery Square, and Dattatreya Square are all within walking distance.
5. Do I need a guide to visit these places?
You can explore on your own, but a local guide can help you understand the history and stories behind each place.
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