Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, used to be the residence of the Nepali royal family and administrators. This ancient palace lies in the heart of the city. It consists of huge Royal Palace with different temples, inside as well as outside the temple, dating from the 15th to the 18th century. This palace is named after Hanuman, the monkey god, as a stone statue of Hanuman is placed right next to the main entrance protecting the whole palace.

Some important monuments seen in this area are:
• The Taleju temple is the tallest of all structures built by King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D.
• The Jagannath temple, built in the 16th century, is known for the fascinating erotic figures carved in the wooden struts.
• The Kala Bhairav, one of the largest 17th century stone statue in Kathmandu , represents the terrifying aspect of Shiva.
• The statue of King Pratap Malla is placed atop a stone pillar right across the temple of Digu Taleju , the royal family deity.
• The 17th century Kumari temple (the temple of the living goddess is an example of the highly developed Nepali craftsmanship.
• Kastamandap, from which Kathmandu derives its name, is said to have been built from the timber of a single tree.

Besides these, other fascinating parts of this palace complex is the towering Nautale Durbar overlooking the beautiful city and the vast Basantapur square. It is famous for its many intricately carved doors, windows, etc