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Kathmandu Durbar Square

Durbar Square of KathmanduThis particular area best known as Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in the heart of this city. Locally also called as Hanuman Dhoka Palace Square-an ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty.

Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex consists of a huge Royal Square imposing a tremendous variety of temples dedicated to different Hindu gods and goddess. Most of the buildings we see here date from 15th to 18th century.

The entire Palace Complex here is named after a monkey god called Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red right next to the main entrance ( the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.

Some of the important monuments to be seen here are: 


1. Taleju temple- tallest of all structures built by king Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D.
2. Jagannath temple- built in the 16th century, known for fascinating erotic figures carving I the wooden struts eaves.
3. Kal Bhairav- one of the largest stone idol in Kathmandu representing the terrifying aspects of Shiva.
4. Statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Digu Taleju the royal family deity right across.
5. Kumari Ghar- 17th century Kumari temple, an example of the highly developed Nepalese temple craft.
6. Kasthamandap- built from the timber of a single tree.
7. The Kathmandu City derives its name from Kasthamandap.

Besides this other fascinating part of this palace complex is the towering Nautale Durbar overlooking the beautiful cityscape and the vast Basantapur square where Prithivi Narayan Shah built mansion to commemorate his victory in 1768 A.D. This building complex is known for the most intricately carved wooden doorways roof struts and massive lattice windows full of mythical figures.