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Nyatapola Temple
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Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur is the tallest pagoda in Nepal, standing five stories high, and is considered a masterpiece of Newari architecture. Completed in 1702 in just seven months during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla, it is a testament to the engineering skill of that era. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi, a powerful incarnation of Durga, whose image remains hidden deep within the sanctum. A unique feature is the five pairs of guardian statues lining the staircase, each pair said to be ten times stronger than the one below, ranging from legendary wrestlers to deities. The temple's structural integrity is legendary, as it survived the devastating earthquakes of 1934 and 2015 with minimal damage. Its well-suited proportions and intricate wood carvings make it one of the most photographed structures in Nepal. Dominating Taumadhi Square, it continues to be a focal point for bustling local religious festivals.
- Location: Nepal
- Top sights: Nyatapola Temple · Brass & Bronze Museum · Brammayadi Devi Fix Itta Udhyog
- Nearby: Gosaikunda (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 14 | 18 | 22 | 24 | 25 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 19 | 16 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 10 | 17 | 21 | 37 | 89 | 170 | 280 | 238 | 169 | 45 | 3 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The temple is always accessible from the outside. The interior is open to the public only on certain days. Climbing the steps is worthwhile.
Typical hours
The outer areas are accessible around the clock. The interior has no fixed hours, as it opens only on special occasions.
Photography
Photography of the temple from outside is allowed anytime. Flash is not permitted inside. The best shot is from the square.
Time needed
Visiting the temple itself takes about 20-30 minutes. For the entire Bhaktapur Durbar Square, allow two to three hours.
Combine with
Combine the visit with other temples on Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The pottery workshops and the royal baths are also worth seeing.
Getting there
Bhaktapur is about 15 kilometers east of Kathmandu. By bus or taxi, you reach the square in about 30 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit the temple in the late afternoon when the light is especially beautiful. Climb the steps for a great view of the square.
Geography
Facts
- Standing at 30 meters, Nyatapola is the tallest temple in all of Nepal.
- The name 'Nyatapola' means 'five-story roof' in the Newari language.
- The entire construction in 1702 took exactly 210 days to complete.
- The guardian statues at the base represent the famous wrestlers Jaya and Phattu.
- It was one of the few structures that survived the 2015 earthquake unscathed.
- There are 108 hand-carved wooden struts supporting the pagoda's roofs.
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Sights in the town Nyatapola Temple (10)
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Frequently asked questions
How high is the Nyatapola temple?
It is five stories high and over 30 meters tall.
Can you climb it?
Access to the inside is only permitted to priests.
Is it stable?
Yes, it survived major earthquakes surprisingly well.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, taking photos from the outside is no problem.
What is the best time of day?
In the morning when the light is convenient for pictures.
Nyatapola Temple: where is it located?
Nyatapola Temple is located in Nepal.
Nyatapola Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nyatapola Temple, Brass & Bronze Museum, Brammayadi Devi Fix Itta Udhyog.
Nyatapola Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct.
Nyatapola Temple: why is it worth visiting?
Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur is the tallest pagoda in Nepal, standing five stories high, and is considered a masterpiece of Newari architecture.
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