New Year’s Eve in Bhaktapur: Heritage and New Beginnings Await
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Bhaktapur, where ancient heritage meets new beginnings. With perfect weather and a rich cultural tapestry, explore the city’s historic sites and join in the festivities for an unforgettable experience.
Embracing the Heritage of Bhaktapur
As the year draws to a close, Bhaktapur, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a unique opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Eve amidst its ancient wonders. The weather on December 28th is expected to be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from a crisp 44.3°F in the morning to a comfortable 68.6°F by mid-afternoon. This makes it an ideal day to embark on a City Tour of Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Square. Starting at 9:00 AM, this tour takes you through the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, where you can explore the majestic royal palaces and exotic temples that define the region’s rich heritage.
The tour begins in Bhaktapur, where the Durbar Square stands as a testament to the city’s glorious past. Here, you can marvel at the intricate woodcarvings and stone sculptures that adorn the Nyatapola Temple and the Palace of 55 Windows. As you wander through the square, the air is filled with the scent of incense and the sound of temple bells, creating a serene atmosphere that invites reflection and mindfulness.
“Amazing tour to Patan and Bhaktapur - I had the most amazing tour to the ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur today with Shanti, who’s been very kind, funny, and most of all very knowledgeable. These sites rank amongst the most impressive ancient places I’ve visited so far in Asia, and they really deserve to be part of the UNESCO world heritage. Thank you Shanti for this memorable day!” - Reviewed at 2023-06-10
A Journey Through Time in Patan
As the tour continues, you’ll find yourself in Patan, another jewel of the Kathmandu Valley. Known for its artistic excellence, Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the architectural brilliance of the Newar artisans. The Patan Museum, located within the square, offers a glimpse into the region’s history and culture through its world-class collection of Newari art.
The Krishna Mandir Temple, with its stone pillars and intricate carvings, stands as a symbol of the city’s spiritual heritage. As you explore the temple, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the echoes of ancient rituals and the whispers of the past. The tour concludes with a visit to the Dattatreya Temple, one of the oldest temples in the area, where you can witness the devotion of the local people as they offer prayers and light candles in honor of their deities.
“Day of temples! - Thoroughly recommend this tour. My guide Kabita was super knowledgeable in explaining everything we saw. Definitely recommend!” - Reviewed at 2023-04-22
Welcoming the New Year in Bhaktapur
On December 29th, the weather is expected to be clear, with temperatures ranging from 45.4°F in the morning to 67.2°F in the afternoon. This perfect weather sets the stage for a World Heritage City Tour of Bhaktapur, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Starting at 8:00 AM, this tour takes you through the ancient streets of Bhaktapur, where the past and present coexist in harmony.
The Bhaktapur Durbar Square, with its stunning temples and palaces, is a sight to behold. The Nyatapola Temple, with its five-story pagoda structure, stands as a testament to the city’s architectural excellence. As you explore the square, you’ll encounter the Bhairavnath Temple, known for its unique pagoda-style architecture and the fierce stone image of Bhairav.
A visit to Pottery Square offers a glimpse into the traditional pottery-making techniques of Bhaktapur. Here, you can watch skilled artisans shape clay into beautiful artifacts, a craft that has been passed down through generations. As the sun sets on the final day of the year, the city comes alive with celebrations, as locals and visitors alike gather to welcome the new year with joy and hope.
“Exciting and thrilling - I always wanted to just pack my bags and explore new places which something I really wanting to do for a very long time. So I had the opportunity to visit the beautiful and diverse city Kathmandu situated at the lap of Himalayas. I took the service from tour guide in Nepal. They were very hospitable, friendly and down to earth. They took care of everything from hotels, food, transportation to highly experienced tour guide. I had the blast of lifetime and memory to cherish for eternity. Highly recommend to use their service. Cheers!!!!” - Reviewed at 2020-07-21
As the clock strikes midnight, the city of Bhaktapur becomes a beacon of hope and renewal, a place where the past and future converge in a celebration of heritage and new beginnings. Whether you’re exploring the ancient temples or joining in the festivities, Bhaktapur offers a truly unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience.