bhaktapur durbar square: a world heritage site, it is a conglomeration of pagoda and shikhara-style temples built around a fifty-five window palace. it is one of the most beautiful architectural showpieces of the valley as it showcases the ancient arts of nepal. the constructions of the large amount of temples in durbar squares in the valley was the direct result of tough competition between the kings over their power. though the complex consists of four distinct squares (durbar square, taumadhi square, dattatreya square and pottery square), the whole area is locally known as the bhaktapur durbar square.

the main items attractions here include:

• the lion gate: built in 1696 this gate is protected by two huge statues of lions on either side. there are also stone images of bhairav, the wrathful manifestation of shiva and ugrachandi, wife of shiva in her fearful manifestation. it is believed that after the completion of this gate, the hands of artisans were cut off so that similar masterpiece would not again be made.
• the golden gate: one of most beautiful and delicately carved specimens which visitors can see, it is the entrance to main courtyard of palace of 55 windows built by king ranjit malla. there are images of deities and monsters which are carved on the gate. on the top there is a carving of goddess kali and garuda which are attended by two heavenly nymphs. it is one of best example of the metal work of ancient nepal.
• the palace of fifty-five windows: built during the reign of king yakshya malla in 1427 and was later renovated by king bhupatindra malla in the seventeenth century. it was earlier the royal palace of malla king and currently a museum of ancient history, arts and architectures. the palace has beautifully and intricately carved fifty-five windows which is considered woodcarving masterpiece. it has a golden gate and small temples within its premises
• the art gallery: one of best museums in bhaktapur and has rich collection of ancient paintings including thangkas belonging to both hindu and buddhist culture.
• yakcheswor mahadev: replication of pashupatinath temple of kathmandu built by king yakshya malla in 1480 ad. it was built so that bhaktapur people do not have to travel all the way to kathmandu for offering prayers. it is also famous for its erotic carvings.