|
Patan
The ancient city of artists situated five kilometers southeast
of Kathmandu is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. The
diversity of the medieval culture that allowed both Hinduism and
Buddhism to flourish has left a rich lagacy of impressive sightseeing
in this city for today's visitors.
|
|
| |
|
Patan Durbar Square
It is situated in the heart of the city constitutes the focus
of visitor's attraction. The Square is full of ancient palaces,
temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings. The
Patan Durbar Square consists of three main chowks or courtyards,
the Central Mul Chhowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshar Narayan Chowk.
The Sundari Chowk holds in its center a masterpiece of stone
architecture, the Royal Bath called Tushahity.
|
|
 |
|
| |
Krishna Mandir
Built in the 17th century, the temple of Lord Krishna holds a commanding
position in the palace complex of Patan. It is supposed to be the
first specimen of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. It is the
only temple in Nepal having 21 spites and is completely made of stone.
|
| |
Mahaboudha
A little further east from Patan Durbar Square lies this Buddhist
temple made of clay bricks in which thousands of Lord Buddha are engraved.
The terra-cotta structure is one of the fourteenth century Nepalese
architectural masterpieces. |
| |
Hiranya Varna Mahavihar
Located inside, Kwabadehal, this three-storey golden pagoda of Lokeshwor
(Lord Buddha) was built in the twelfth century by King Bhaskar Verma.
Inside the upper storey of the pagoda, are the golden images of Lord
Buddha and a large prayer wheel. |
| |
Temple of Machchendranath
and Minnath
The pagoda of Red Machchendranath built in 1408 A.D. is situated in
Tabahal. For six months the deity is taken to its other shrine in
Bungmati. The temple of Minnath is situated in Tangal on the way to
Tabahal. |
| |
The Zoo
Situated as Jawalakhel, the zoo has many animals, birds and reptiles
in its collections representing mostly the Himalayan fauna. There
is a beautiful pond built in 17th century. |
| |
Godavari
Situated at the foothills of Phulchowki, the Royal Botanical Garden
of Godavari has splendid natural beauty. The road from Patan city
runs to Godavari to the southeast, passing through the small towns
of Hrisiddhi, Thaiba and Badegaun. The only botanical garden in Nepal,
it is open daily including Saturdays and government holidays. |
| |
Phulchowki
Located about 10 km southeast of Patan, this 2,758 m hill, is a good
spot for hiking. A Buddhist shrine is situated on the top of the hill
which can be reached through a jeepable road. |
