Bhaktapur, the third royal city of the valley, lies about fifteen kilometres east of Kathmandu. Its name means city of devotees, and religious life is everywhere.
Like Patan, it is a Newar city famous for its arts: painting, sculpture, brickwork and above all pottery, which you'll see drying in the squares. Walking its streets shows how skilled Newar craftsmen still are.
Cultural life is very much alive, with traditional Newar dances and festivals throughout the year. The biggest is Bisket Jatra, the New Year festival in April, when huge wooden chariots are pulled through the streets. Don't miss it if you are here at that time.
