Explore Patan, the living museum of Nepalese art and design

Patan, one of Nepal’s oldest cities, is a hub for artisans, craftsmen and scholars

As the plane touches down at Tribhuvan International Airport, the majestic sight of the Himalayas greets passengers with their snow-capped peaks glowing in the late afternoon sun. Upon landing, warm smiles welcome visitors, in an airport buzzing with a mix of trekkers, tourists and locals.

It is 15 degrees Celsius outside, and the crisp air carries the faint scent of incense. A short drive through the vibrant streets of Kathmandu leads to the serene embrace of the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, an oasis nestled amidst the capital’s bustling energy.

Cluster General Manager Vishal Mehra greets me with a warm smile, setting a welcoming tone. After a refreshing drink and a glimpse of the cityscape from the room’s wide windows, it is time to explore the heart of Kathmandu — a city that artfully balances sacred rhythms with modern beats. But today’s chapter will take us just a few kilometres to the south, the town of Patan, also known as Lalitpur or the city of beauty.

For a deeper understanding, I drive to Patan, located around seven kilometres from Kathmandu. Patan is one of Nepal’s oldest cities and is believed to have been established during the Kirat dynasty. With its Newari-style buildings and ornate carvings, the ancient city is a living museum of Nepalese art and design. Patan has been a hub for artisans, craftsmen and scholars. 

Stepping into Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, feels like stepping back in time with its 17th-century royal palaces, centuries-old temples, and courtyards. My guide, Yadav Khatiwada, shares stories of the Malla kings, who ruled the dynasty of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal from 1201 to 1779. “Each wall, building, or temple tells a story,” Yadav remarks, pointing to Krishna Mandir, which stands at the heart of the square.

Nearby, the Royal Palace complex invites exploration, its courtyards showcase the finest examples of Newari craftsmanship. Mul Chowk, the oldest and central courtyard, houses the sacred Taleju Bhawani Temple, while Sundari Chowk boasts the sunken tank known as Tusha Hiti or Royal Bath used by the Malla royal family in Nepal. The royal bath, an extraordinary visual retreat, left me and other tourists in awe. I gaze at the intricately adorned wall featuring idols of the Ashta Matrikas, eight Bhairavs, and Nagas, while the gilt copper spout showcases Vishnu and Laxmi seated on Garuda.

For art lovers, the Patan Museum is a must-visit. The museum is home to one of the finest collections of Nepali art. The museum showcases exquisite paintings, sculptures, and artefacts of Hinduism and Buddhism. Walking through the museum galleries, one is filled with cultural and artistic insights. All the exhibits have captions with backgrounds.