Kathmandu Durbar Square

A profound journey into Nepal’s royal past awaits at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located within a comfortable 13 to 14-minute walk (around 1.0-1.1 kilometers) from the Grand Yak Boutique Hotel. This historic complex, once the seat of the Malla and Shah kings, is a captivating open-air museum. Visitors can explore ancient palaces like the Hanuman Dhoka Palace (now a museum), marvel at intricate Newari architecture, and discover numerous pagoda-style temples, courtyards, and ancient statues. Highlights include the Kumari Bahal, home to the Living Goddess Kumari, and the Kasthamandap, a centuries-old wooden pavilion that gave Kathmandu its name. Despite damage from the 2015 earthquake, ongoing restoration efforts continue to unveil the enduring artistry and spiritual significance embedded in every stone and carving, offering a vibrant glimpse into centuries of Nepali history and culture.