The Himalayan Times- Travel and Lifestyle

 Top 5 things to do in the city of devotees

Published: December 10, 2015

Abhilasha Rayamajhi

Photo: Sanu Raja Maharjan/ THT

Abeeral Thapa is the Managing Director of Nepal, Sanjiwani Herbal Industry and a renowned lyricist. He revisits his favourite city – Bhaktapur with Abhilasha Rayamajhi and lists the best things to do there.
1.  Explore the old alleys

Photo: Sanu Raja Maharjan/ THT

As you walk the historic alleys of Bhaktapur, you will stumble upon vibrant markets, artistic wood carvings, friendly people and exotic monuments. He shares, “There is surreal beauty in these alleys. The magnificence they hold has never failed to fascinate me.”
2.  Visit the Nyatapola Temple

Photo: Sanu Raja Maharjan/ THT

The sky high Nyatapola temple at five storeys is the tallest temple in the durbar square. As we pass the temple, he says, “I like sitting at the rooftop cafe observing the people and the cultural heritage. I feel the places that I have read in novels and stories come to life here.”
3. Shop for mementos

Photo: Sanu Raja Maharjan/ THT

Vibrant shops in the durbar square offer a wide range of Thangkas, paintings, singing bowls, magical amulets and handicrafts. The Buddhist art and architecture is detailed and intricate. The colour combination, iconography, originality of the design makes them outstanding. According to Thapa, “The ethnic thangkas available here are simple yet they catch the eye. The patterns and the Buddhist deities in these paintings are uniquely attractive.” He says, “The soothing sound of antique singing bowls also help in meditation and healing.”
4. Enjoy the pottery square

Photo: Sanu Raja Maharjan/ THT

“As a creative person I always enjoy observing skillful people at work. The locals of Bhaktapur have preserved their culture and rich history through the production of various vessels and pots of clay,” he says. Bhaktapur is also renowned for its crafts and traditional clay pots. The pottery square is one of the most interesting areas of Bhaktapur where tourists and people from all walks of life can enjoy the craftsmanship. The pots made here are considered superior to pots produced elsewhere because of the black clay used, which is available. The black clay is called Dyo Cha that literally translates to ‘King of clay’.
5. Indulge in the richness of Juju Dhau

Photo: Sanu Raja Maharjan/ THT

Bhaktapur is famous for its thick, creamy and sweetened yoghurt or Juju Dhau. Juju Dhau literally means the king of yoghurt in Newari. It is served in earthen pots that keep it chilled. It is a part of almost every celebration in Nepal. It is used for culinary purposes and also has great religious significance. Thapa shares, “There is no city that can beat Bhaktapur’s Juju Dhau. Your visit to Bhatkapur is never complete without enjoying this delicious yoghurt.”

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A version of this article appears in print on December 10, 2015 of The Himalayan Times