Most of the cultural centers of Nepal are concentrated around the Kathmandu valley. Among those cultural sites, the important one is the Hanuman-dhoka Durbar Square. Located at the heart of the ancient city, it is a complex of beautiful temples and shrines, both Hindu and Buddhist. Most of them are built in the pagoda style embellished with intricately carved exteriors, built between the 12th and 18th centuries. The Durbar Square with its old temples, palaces, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. It is here that kings of Nepal are crowned and their coronations solemnized. Until the early 20th century the Durbar Square was the King’s residence. Is is a living open museum of Nepal.
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Hanuman-dhoka Durbar Square |
The Durbar Square area is actually made up of two sub-areas. The outer complex renowned for numerous interesting temples as Kumari Ghar, Kasthmandap, Shiv-Parbati Temple, Jagannath Temple, while the inner complex comprises the old palace area Hanuman-dhoka and its courtyards. There are many temples in the inner complex also, most notable being the Taleju Temple dedicated to female royal deity.
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Home of the Living Goddess the “Kumari.”
The Living Goddess, the “Kumari.” To read about the significance in the Nepalese culture and the Kumari go to the following website. |
Besides the magnificent temples and shrines are various festivals, cultural activities and traditions people have followed for centuries. These are presented in the Durbar Square.
Our visit to Nepal was an experience we will remember for a liftime.
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Now this is hard work |
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With a Holy Man |
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Selling Lentils |
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Magnificent temples were everywhere. |
Click on one of the links. I have seen discounts up to 60% and more with free shipping.
Good fishing, good hunting and good luck. Hank
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