Kathmandu durbar square
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Square, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. This historical square is a spectacular testament to Nepalese architecture, culture, and history, dating back to the Licchavi period (3rd to 8th centuries) but predominantly showcasing the Malla dynasty’s architectural prowess from the 12th to 18th centuries. The square is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples that were built around the plaza in front of the old royal palace. It was the seat of the Nepalese monarchy until the 19th century and remains a center of important ceremonial and cultural events, including the Indra Jatra and Dashain festivals. The site is named after Hanuman, the monkey god, with a statue of Hanuman established by King Pratap Malla at the entrance, serving as a protector of the palace.
Kathmandu Durbar Square faced significant damage during the 2015 earthquake, leading to the collapse of several buildings and temples. Restoration efforts have been underway to preserve its architectural heritage, including the rebuilding of structures like the iconic Kasthamandap, from which the city of Kathmandu gets its name. The square is home to the Kumari Ghar, residence of the Living Goddess Kumari, a unique aspect of Nepalese culture where a young girl is venerated as the physical embodiment of divine female energy. The site’s intricate wood carvings, metalwork, and beautiful courtyards are emblematic of Newari craftsmanship, offering insights into the rich cultural and religious life of Nepal. Tourists and devotees alike flock to Kathmandu Durbar Square, drawn by its historical significance and spiritual ambiance, making it a pivotal landmark in Kathmandu’s cultural landscape.
Year
2023
Camera
Sony A9
Lens
Sony FE 24-70 GM
Project
Self
Description
Embarking on a journey through Kathmandu Durbar Square felt like stepping into a vivid tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality woven over centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, set in the bustling heart of Nepal’s capital, is a magnificent collection of palaces, courtyards, and temples that exemplify the architectural genius of the Malla dynasty. As I meandered through the complex, the ancient stones whispered tales of royal ceremonies and divine worship. The sight of the Living Goddess Kumari’s residence was particularly stirring, embodying a unique tradition where divinity is seen in human form. Despite the scars left by the 2015 earthquake, the square thrummed with life, its restoration efforts a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Nepalese people to preserve their heritage.
Each corner of Kathmandu Durbar Square revealed something extraordinary, from the intricate wood carvings that adorned the windows and doors of old royal palaces to the towering temples that stood as silent sentinels of the past. The blend of the historical and the sacred, the bustling markets that encircle the square, and the spontaneous rituals that unfolded in the courtyards offered a glimpse into the daily rhythms of Kathmandu. This experience was not merely an exploration of a tourist landmark but a profound encounter with a living cultural landscape, where every stone and statue had a story to tell, connecting the dots between Nepal’s illustrious past and its vibrant present.
