The city of the devotees is the marvel of Kathmandu Valley. It is also known as Bhadgaon and was founded in 889 AD by King Anand Dev. Today it covers an area of four square miles and is flanked by Khasa Khusung and Hanumante Rivers. Bhaktapur is perhaps the most popular of the three Newar towns of the Kathmandu Valley.

Bhaktapur is perhaps the most popular of the three Newar towns of the Kathmandu Valley. Newar art and architecture here rival the best craftsmanship of the Malla period (from the 12th to the the 18th century). Though a massive earthquake of 1934 destroyed many temples, bahals (monastery courtyards), and residences, the city is still a living proof of the highest craft standards in this part of the world. As the visitor wanders through the narrow brick paved streets, many alleys will show hidden shrines and statues. Clay craftsmanship as well as cloth weaving is still practiced here very much as in the past. Fourteen kilometres east of Kathmandu, this peaceful, conservative town stands in sharp contrast to the bustle of its two adjacent cities.

After seeing one or all of these monuments of the Kathmandu Valley, the visitor needs to realize that, of course, the world Heritage sites are only the trip of the iceberg. There are countless other monuments to see in the Kathmandu Valley, as there are shrines, statues, and religious images in almost every alley. Only the gods know how old most of these are. There are many pleasant walks and hikes around the Valley, with the Himalayas as a grand backdrop. And the original charm which lured Lord Shiva still welcomes you. Welcome to Nepal, the country where the gods come to holiday!