Patan is a city of fine arts. It is situated about 5 km south-east of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Patan is an ancient little city that is jam-packed with interesting history and heritage, epitomized by the Buddhist monuments and Hindu temples. The diversity of the medieval culture that allowed both Hinduism and Buddhism to flourish has left a rich legacy of impressive sightseeing in this city for today's visitors.
Patan Valley attracts many tourist each year. Of all the activities available to do in patan, you will more than likely end up in a historical building, museum or temple at one time or another. Lalitpur's museums are genuine worth the visit, when visiting one of them you can be sure to get a better understanding of the history of the Buddhism and Hinduism cultures.
Bhaktapur or 'the
City of Devotees' is
situated at an
altitude of 1.401 m
and covers and area
of about four square
miles. This small
little city still
retains the medieval
charm and visitors
are treated with
numerous natural
wonders. The ancient
glory of the Malla
rulers reflects in
the Durbar Square
and pottery and
weaving are their
traditional
industries. The city
is situated a mere
14 km east of
Kathmandu, the
capital city of
Nepal and is easily
accessible by car or
bus.
Due to a long-term
westward drift, the
city has two centers
(residents of the
two centers stage a
energetic tug-of-war
during Bhaktapur's
annual Bisket
festival) and three
main squares. In the
west side of
Bhaktapur, the
Bhaktapur Durbar
Square and the
Taumadhi Tol
dominates the
post-fifteenth-century
city, while in the
east side Tachapal
Tol rules.
Bhaktapur is world
wide renowned for
its elegant art,
magnificent culture
and its indigenous
lifestyle. It is
also known for its
majestic monuments,
colorful festivals
and celebrations and
the natives are best
known for their long
history of
craftsmanship.