Patan is the oldest of the three original city states in the Kathmandu Valley which were ruled separately by ancient royal dynasties. At times, the rivalry between the ancient kingdoms was expressed through public art and the grandeur of temple and palace architecture.

Walking through the narrow streets and squares of Patan, little has altered over the centuries. Some of the major sights include: Patan Durbar Square, Kumbheshwor Temple and Vajravarahi Temple.