Shradheya's Diary: Historical and Cultural Significance of Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur

Historical and Cultural Significance of Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur

Shradheya Krishna Manandhar (9C)

DAV Bishwa Bharati Shushil Kedia Higher Secondary School

Introduction

The Kathmandu valley was ruled by the Malla dynasty from 1200 to 1768 A.D. The entire Kathmandu valley was once ruled by a single Malla King, but due to internal conflicts between the royals, they divided the valley into three kingdoms, namely: Kantipur, Patan and Bhadgaon. These three kingdoms were ruled by different Malla kings and they also competed against each other in terms of development and prosperity of the nation. The Malla kings had great taste of art, culture and architecture. It is said that development of art and architecture reached its climax in the Malla period, as they highly encouraged the construction of different pagoda and shikhar-styled temples, monuments, sculptures and statues, specially in newar style as the Malla’s themselves had newar background. King Pratap Malla of Kathmandu, King Siddhi Narsingh Malla of Lalitpur and King Bhupatindra Malla of Bhaktapur were the most outstanding rulers, who competed with each other to beautify and construct new magnificent temples in their respective kingdoms. The Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur built during the Malla era and numerous other monuments and artifacts are all our elements of national pride and our show pieces to foreigners. These monuments, cultural festivals and relics also depicts the civilization of Nepalese towns during 15^th to 18^th century. Because of the great cultural and historical importance and grandeur of these monuments, there Durbar Squares are also in-scripted as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO in 1979. In this paper, an effort is made to introduce the monuments within the Patan Durbar Square area in Lalitpur.

Research objective: The objective of conducting this research to understand in detail and appreciate the importance of the historical monuments within the premises of Patan Durbar Square, constructed during the Malla era.

Research methodology: The methodology used for this research was mainly desk study of published papers, articles by various authors, available in different websites, and visiting the monuments of Patan Durbar Square and its surroundings. During the visits, photo-documentation was also made. The local people knowledgeable with the background, history and culture of Patan were interviewed.

Characteristics of Town of Patan

The town of Patan, during the Malla era, was located within area bounded by the four Ashoka stupas at the periphery of the then outskirts of Patan town, constructed by King Ashoka’s disciples when the Buddhism flourished in the Indian subcontinent. The entire town of ancient Patan was only roughly 200 hectares in area and had around 24,000 households during Malla era. At the center of the town, the rulers of the kingdom, constructed their palaces, and administrative buildings, and places of worship which is presently known as the Patan Durbar Square. There were two major intersecting roads – the north-south road and east-west road, which meet at Patan Durbar Square – the center of power and importance of the town.

The entire town of Patan, known as Lalit pattan (now known as Lalitpur, meaning ‘City of Beauty’) and also called Yela (in Newari language) had numerous Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries known as Vihars and Mahavihars, with artistic wooden, and stone carvings, rich in medieval architecture. The hindu temples were multi-tiered, with well carved doors, struts and posts, constructed above ground levels, to project a strong and grand image of the temples. Similarly, the royal palaces were also had wooden carved windows, doors, and interiors, with spacious courtyards and temple of family deity – the Taleju Bawani.

The temples found in the premise of Patan Durbar Square is a mixture of Pagoda style temples and Shikhar style temples. General description of the two temple styles are described below:

1. Pagoda Style Temple : Pagoda styled temples of Hindu deities are multi storied roofs, which gets narrower towards the higher level, and has a central metal pinnacle (called gajur). No temple is considered complete without a permanent gajur. The pagoda temples are made of brick masonry with wooden carvings on its doors, windows, struts and columns. The roofs are generally covered with baked clay tiles, and supported by struts, known as tudals. Some roofs are of metal sheets of brass, bronze or gold plated. Some temples have roofs of metal sheets whereas some has both clay tiles and metal sheet roofs. Generally the pagoda temple’s ground floor is elevated on a raised plinth level (in average 2m from ground level), and stone steps leads up to the temple floor. The stone steps are guarded by a pair of lion, or elephant statues on both sides. Wooden tundals (that support for projected roof) and posts are important elements which contain beautiful carvings. There is the main door and side doors that have wooden carvings and further decorated by tympanum (torans) above doors. Each pagoda roof generally has a row of wind bells around its four sides, that chimes melodiously, creating a peaceful environment. Records show that this kind of architecture started form the 13^th century. It is estimated that around 90 percent of the religious shrines have Pagoda style temples in Kathmandu Valley. Pashupati Nath Temple, Changu Narayan Temple are examples of Pagoda Style Hindu temples.

2. Shikhar Style Temple : Shikhar styled temples are both for Hindu and Buddhist deities and its architecture is believed to have entered in Nepal from India. Shikhar styled summit temples are roofless with several towering and tapering dome-tops with golden pinnacles (gajurs) in them. Its original construction material is generally stone, but brick Shikhar style temples also exists. The Shikhar temples made of stones, have stone carvings and those made of bricks have molded images (for instance the brick Shikhar temple of Maha Baudhha has Buddha’s image molded in baked bricks). This kind of architecture became popular in Nepal during the 17^th and 18^th century during the Malla era.

Dwellings of General Public:

Citizens of Patan had their homes in small communities called toles, in a very densely constructed interconnected houses. They usually owned agricultural lands in the outskirts of the town. As 95% of the people living in Patan were newars, their living pattern are also uniquely newari style. The newar houses are constructed forming a rectangular shape with an open courtyard space in the center. These open spaces, called Chowks, are common space used for construction of water well; place of worship with shrines or chaityas; space for celebrating festivals; drying grains and a play yard for children. As the newars gave importance to their cultural and traditional festivals, each settlement had at least one common temple/worshiping place they celebrate festivals in these areas very often with great enthusiasm. The town area around Patan is also full of innumerable temples, big or small, of either Hindu or Buddhist deities, Vihars and Mahavihars, public stone-water sprouts called lo-hitis in Newari and dhunge-dhara in Nepali.

This paper describes the monuments and artifacts within the premises of Patan Durbar Square, and the summary table is attached below, in Table 1.

Table 1 : Summary of Monuments and Artifacts within the Premises of Patan Durbar Square (In chronological order of construction)

A. Monuments situated in the Western Side of Patan Durbar Square

Name of Temples / Monument	Constructed		Type of Roof	Number of			Size of Plinth	Plinth Ht. above GL	General Remarks
Name of Temples / Monument	By	Year	Type of Roof	Tudals	Columns	Gajurs	Size of Plinth	Plinth Ht. above GL	General Remarks
Char Narayan Temple (Jagan Narayan)	King Purandar Simha	1566 AD	Pagoda, 2 roofs	Total 40 for 2 roofs	0	1 metal	6.6m x 6.6m	2.4 m	· Oldest Temple in Patan Durbar Square · Situated in front of main Royal Palace and south of Krishna Mandir · Completely destroyed by 2015 earthquake, reconstruction completed. · Grand wooden carvings on doors, windows and tudals · Clay tile roofs · Guarded by 2 Sitting Stone Lions Statues at entrance steps · Kartik Dabali is in front of the Temple
Narshinga Temple	King Purandar Simha	1589 AD	Shikhar	0	Wooden, 8	5 stone	1.7m x 1.5m	2.5m	· Shikhar style, brick masonry Mandir with 5 Gajurs (Pinnacles ) · Situated between Char Narayan Temple and Hari Shankar Temple, behind King Yog Narendra Malla’s Pillar · Heavily damaged during 2015 earthquake and reconstruction underway · Guarded by 2 Sitting Stone Lions Statues at entrance steps
Vishwanath Temple (Vishveshvara) (Shiva)	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla	1627 AD	Pagoda, 2 roofs	Total 48 for 2 roofs	Wooden, 20	1 metal	7.0m x 7.0m	2.70 m	· Grand wood carvings in wooden columns & tudals and door tympanum Total of 20 tympanum (torans) at parapet columns · Guarded by 2 standing stone elephant statues at front entrance steps · Situated in front of main Palace and north of Krishna Mandir · Clay tile roofs, parapet at plinth level. · Restoration done in 1956, 1974, & 1989
Krishna Mandir Temple	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla	1637 AD	Shikhar	0	Stone, 29	21 metal	9.6m x 9.6m	2.1m	· Shikhar style, all stone Mandir with 21 Gajurs (Pinnacles ) · Most famous temple in Patan, Lalitpur. 3 deities, Shiva, Krishna & Lokeshwore · Exactly in front of the Royal Palace · Statue of 2 pairs of sitting lions guarding the temple · Stone pillar of Garuda in front of temple · Partially weakened after earthquake
Narayan Temple	King Sri Nivas Malla	1652 AD	Pagoda 2 roofs	Total 24 for 2 roofs	0	1 metal	1.7m x 1.4m	1.7m	· Small 2 story pagoda temple, with 1 metal Gajur (Pinnacle) · Situated next to Char Narayan Temple in its south · Not guarded by any animal or have steps leading to main entrance · Carvings in wooden tudals, doors and windows · Less damaged by 2015 earthquake
Kashi Bishwo Nath Temple (Bhai Dega)	Bharo Bhagirath Bhaiya (PM)	1678 AD	Pagoda 3 roofs	28	---------	1 metal	7m x 7m	1m	· Situated west of Chyasin Dewal · Originally 3 Storied Pagoda, with brick masonry, and wooden carvings · Destroyed during 1934 earthquake, and reconstructed in small dome style · Re-construction underway in original pagoda style. Not complete as of Dec. 2021
Bhimsen Temple	King Sri Nivas Malla	1681 AD	Pagoda 3 roofs	28+22+16 Total 66	0	3 metal	11m x 14m	0	· Situated on the north end of Patan Durbar Square premise · 3 Storied Pagoda style temple, with brick Masonry, · Built without elevated plinth, and carved wooden tudals, doors and windows · Metal bird on the 4 edges of the uppermost roof · Wooden windows in the exact middle of each floor · Stone pillar of metal lion, in front of temple
Hari Shankar Temple	King Yog Narendra Malla	1705 AD	Pagoda, 3 roofs	60 tundals total	Wooden, 20	1 metal	7.2m x 7.2m	3m	· Situated in front of Degutale Temple, in the Royal Palace side · 3 storied Pagoda style, with elaborate carved tudals, torans, doors & windows · Elevated plinth level and pair of stone sitting elephant status at entrance of steps · Totally collapsed during 2015 earthquake, reconstruction works complete
Chyasin Dewal Temple (Bal Gopal)	Yogamati, daughter of King Yog Narendra Malla	1723 AD	Shikhar	0	Stone, 24 on plinth floor	1 metal, 16 stone	12m dia.	2.5m	· Situated on the south end of Patan Durbar Square premise · Octagonal, Shikhar style, Stone temple · Medium-sized stone sitting lions guards at front entrance · Stone carving in good condition · Less damaged by 2015 earthquake and under renovation process

B. Monuments situated in the Eastern Side of Patan Durbar Square

Name of Monument	Constructed		Remarks
Name of Monument	By	Year	Remarks
Royal Palace	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla		· Keshav Narayan Chowk, King Srinivas Malla, 1630, Renovated by King Vishnu Malla in 1734, · Mul Chowk, King Siddhi Narsingh Malla, 1627, · Sundari Chowk, King Siddhi Narsingh Malla, 1618,
Degutale Temple	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla	1618	· 5 story palace building from GL and additional 3 story pagoda styled roof Mandir on top of palace building, total 8 stories · Long wooden carved windows on the fourth floor, throughout the length of the building · Wooden carved tudals support the pagoda roofs. Pagoda roofs are with clay tiles · Yog Narendra Malla’s pillar is facing it
Taleju Temple (Main)	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla	1618	· 3 story pagoda style, with octagonal shape, constructed on top of 5 storied palace building, on the north-eastern side of Mul Chowk · Top roof is made of metal, other 2 lower roofs are with clay tiles · Taleju Bhawani is family deity and is prohibited to be visited by outside visitors
Taleju Temple (Small)	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla	1618	· 3 story pagoda style, 2 storied palace building, with clay tiles roofs, on the south side of Mul Chowk · Entrance door to the temple is artistically decorated gold doors with two guarding Ganga and Jamuna, large gold statues on other both sides of the door
· Other Monuments
King Yog Narendra Malla’s Pillar	King Yog Narendra Malla	1693	· 0.45 m x 0.45 m square, 8.21-meter high, Stone Pillar with bronze statue of King with 2 wives, Karkotak Naga (Snake) canopy, and golden bird · Top metal statue and stone pedestal was fallen and damaged during 2015 earthquake. The pillar is re-erected to original form, after King’s statue was reconstructed
Taleju Big Bell	Vishnu Malla	1736	· Situated between Hari Shankar and Chyasal Dewal Temples · Biggest Bell in Patan, Bell rung during festivals and during unusual occasions to alert citizens
Mani Mandaps	King Yog Narendra Malla	1700	· A pair of wooden resting place, with 16 wooden columns, and clay tile roofs, on either side to the entrance steps to Manga hiti (stone water spout) · Re-constructed after the 2015 earthquake
Manga Hiti		570	· Oldest working Water Stone Spout in recorded. Situated north of Royal Palace building · Approximately 3m below ground level, total area is 15m x 15m · Three stone water sprouts exits
Tusha Hiti	King Siddhi Narsingh Malla	1647	· Royal bath, situated in the center of Sundari Chowk, with artistically decorated stone statues of various deities. · Has 72 carved stone idols and one copper gilt water spout at the center
Bhandarkhal Pond		17^th	· Eastern rear side of Royal Palace buildings, Bhandarkhal garden area · 16m x 16m pond to supply water for the royal palace
Pond with Statue	Chandra Shumsher JB Rana		· A small foundation pond, between Cyamsin Dewal and Bhai Dega, with metal idol of First Wife of Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher JB Rana

Description of Monuments and Artifacts within the Premises of Patan Durbar Square

A. Monuments situated in the Western Side of Patan Durbar Square

1. Char Narayan Temple (Jagan Narayan Temple)

Char Narayan Temple (also known as Jagat Narayan Temple) is the oldest temple in Patan Durbar Square. It was built in 1566 AD in memory of the father of King Purandar Singh. It is situated in front of the Royal Palace and is on the right side (south) of Krishna Mandir.

The temple is built to worship the Lord Vishnu, or Lord Narayan. The temple is a pagoda styled temple, with brick masonry walls. The wooden doors, windows, and tudals (40 numbers in total) are very beautifully carved with images of various deities. The temple is open in all its sides, nor does it have covered parapets (like in Vishwanath and Hari Shankar temples). The plinth size is approximately 6.5m x 6.5m and the plinth height above the ground level is 2.3m. The stone steps leading to the plinth level are guarded by two sitting stone lions, and statues of two artistically carved deities. The ground floor level of the temple is dominant by the wooden carved doors. The front main side has three paneled carved door with an artistically carved door-tympanum (toran) on the central door panel. In front of the temple is the Kartik Dabali – a stage like elevated open space, where the annual Kartik dance is performed, continued from the period of Malla era.

Char Narayan Temple

Vishwanath Temple

This temple was completely destroyed by the 2015 earthquake, however it has been fully reconstructed to its original form and is currently open to the public. The reconstruction was done by the support of US, Japan, India governments.

2. Vishwanath Temple

Vishwanath Temple was built in 1627 by the order of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla. It is located in front of the Royal Palace and north of Krishna Mandir and also directly in front of the Manga Hiti (stone water spout). It a temple of Lord Shiva.

The Vishwanath Temple was constructed 61 years after the construction of the Char Narayan temple, when King Siddhi Narsingh Malla was only 21 years of age. We can be seen that it is more decorated and beautified with grand carvings in wooden columns, struts (tudals), door tympanums (torans) then the existing Char Narayan temple, to demonstrate his ability to build grand temples. The temple’s plinth size is 7m by 7m, and raised to 2.7m from the ground to plinth level. It is guarded by twin standing stone elephant’s status, at front entrance steps and stone nandi idol (sitting bull idol) for Shiva on the opposite side. The temple’s roofs are of clay tiles, and the roofs are supported by beautifully carved 48 numbers of wooden struts (tudals), in total. There are 20 wooden posts, with each tympanum (torans), that cover the parapet of the temples. All the wooden posts and tympanums are very artistically carved.

This temple has been damaged due to earthquakes and natural causes several times, and it was reconstructed in 1956, 1974, and 1989 by the then government. In 2015 earthquake, it was only partially damages, and restoration works has now been completed.

3. Krishna Mandir Temple

Krishna Mandir is one of the most famous, popular among Hindu devotees and most revered temples, not only with Patan Durbar Square premises, but within the entire Lalitpur area. It is located in front of the Royal Palace and in between Char Narayan Temple in the south and Viswanath Temple in the north.

The temple was completed construction in two years in 1637 by the order of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla when he was 31 years of age, 10 years after building Viswanath Temple. It is said that one night the King saw Lord Krishna and Radha in front of his palace in a dream and so he ordered the construction of Krishna temple in that exact location in front of his palace.

It is made in Shikhar style, from only stones, without the use of bricks or wood. The temple is a masterpiece, with very elaborate stone carvings in walls, columns, tympanums and floors. It consists of 21 golden pinnacles (gajurs) located in different parts of the tapering roofs. The temple is larger in plinth area compared to other temples, with plinth size of 9.6m by 9.6m. The plinth height from ground level is 2 m and stone steps leading to the main entrance is guarded by two pairs of sitting stone lions.

The three floors of temple has enshrined images of lord Shiva in first floor, load Krishna in second floor and Lokeshwore in third floor, which is a rare mixture of different deities in one single temple. In front of the temple there is a stone pillar with a Garuda (Lord Vishnu’s eagle ) praying to the gods. This also makes the temple special.

The Krishna temple was not damaged during the 2015 earthquake, but was structurally weakened, so strengthening works is recently complete and the temple is presently open to the public.

4. Bhimsen Temple

Bhimsen Temple stands next to Vishwanath temple at the northwestern side of Patan Durbar square. It was built in 1680 during the reign of King Sri Nivas Malla. It is dedicated to Bhimsen, one of the five Pandavs as Bhimsen is regarded as the god of trade and business.

The temple has three roofs, of which the top roof is of bronze metal sheet roof and the lower two roof are of clay tiles. In each floor, there exists carved wooden windows, and the window on the first floor is large with three panels open-able window. The temple has a top central pinnacle (gajur) and two more gajurs at each level of first and second pagoda roofs as well. From the top gajur, a bronze metal pataka extends up to the first pagado roof, which is seen in many Hindu temples. A stone pillar with a metal lion idol is seen in front of the main entrance. The temple is built at ground level, with raising of the plinth, unlike other temples. At the edge roof tops there are statues of birds on the top floor.

The temple was damaged by the 2015 earthquake and as of 2021 it is in the completing stages of re-construction.

Hari Shankar Temple

Krishna Mandir Temple

Bhimsen Temple

5. Hari Shankar Temple

Hari Shankar Temple was built in 1704-05 by King Yog Narendra Malla (son of King Sri Nivas Malla and grandson of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla). It is located opposite to the Degutale Temple, and south of Krishna Mandir and Char Narayan Temple. The temple is dedicated to Hari Shankar, who is a believed to be attributed half to Lord Vishnu and half to Lord Shiva.

In its architectural style, it is similar to Vishwanath Temple constructed by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla, but more grand in its wooden carvings, and is 3 pagoda tiers and higher plinth level than Vishwanath Temple. This temple is the tallest from the ground level among other temples. The struts (tudals) and tympanums (torans) have very detailed wooden carvings that illustrates images of tortures and punishments one faces in hell after death. There are 60 numbers of tudals, and 20 wooden posts coving the parapets, and 20 carved tympanums. The plinth is 7.2m by 7.2m and is 3 m above ground level. The steps leading to the main temple entrance is guarded by a pair of stone sitting elephants. The temple has great historical significance as it shows hybrid deities (Hari Shankhar) which is different form other temples.

This temple is one of the temples that was completely destroyed up to plinth level after the 2015 earthquake and only recently completed its reconstruction works.

6. Chyasin Dewal Temple

The Chyasin Dewal Temple is a Krishna temple, built by Yogamati, the daughter of King Yog Narendra Malla, who constructed it as a memorial to her son Lok Prakash, who died of smallpox at the age of eight. Like the Krishna Mandir temple, it is also built in the shikhar style and made of stones, without the use of wood. The temple is octagonal in its shape – thus the name "Chyasin" which means eight sides in newari language.

The temple consists of 1 golden pinnacle (gajur) at the top and 16 stone pinnacles (gajurs), 8 in each second and third level of the temple.

The temple is the southernmost monument of the main group of temples on the west side of the Patan Darbar square, and is directly south of the Taleju Bell and west of the now-underconstruction Bhai Dewal.

The Chyasin Dewal survived major damage due to 2015 earthquake and is presently under renovation.

Chyasin Dewal Temple

Kashi Bishwa Nath Temple (Bhai Dega)

Above :Original temple Photograph prior to 1934 earthquake

Below : Dome temple after 1934 earthquake, till 2015 earthquake

7. Kashi Bishwa Nath Temple (Bhai Dega Temple)

The Bhai Dega temple was erected as a magnificent 3 storied pagoda temple in 1678 by the prime minister of King Sri Niwas Malla, Bharo Bhagirath Bhaiya.

The temple was completed destroyed in the 1934 earthquake, and it was rebuilt into a dome shaped temple. The original structure of the temple was seen in a photograph dating 1850s, so after the 2015 earthquake, the conservation groups voiced their demand to rebuilt it in its original pagoda style. Thus, at present, the reconstruction is going on to build the temple in its original 3 story pagoda temple with wooden carvings of tudals, doors and windows. Till December 2021, about 40 percent works are completed.

8. Narsingha Temple

Narsingha temple was built in 1589 AD during the reign of King Purandar Simha, to honour his deceased brother, who was a powerful nobleman. The king built this small temple, next to Char Narayan Temple, in Shikhar style, in brick masonry. There are only eight wooden columns that have carvings, and does not have many wooden or stone carvings and decorations, as present in other temples. The entrance is guarded by two sitting lion statues and two deities idols. This temple is seen to be give less importance compared to other monuments in the Patan Durbar Square.

This temple was damaged during the 2015 earthquake and presently reconstruction works is underway.

Narshingha Temple

Narayan Temple

9. Narayan Temple

Narayan temple is a small two storied pagoda styled temple, erected by Sri Nivas Malla in 1652, while is was a prince and reigned during 1661 to 1685 after his father King Siddhi Narsingh Malla died. It was constructed to honour the king’s brothers who predeceased him.

This small temple is overshadowed by the grand Char Narayan Temple built 86 years before it. Though it is less grand than other temples, it does has wooden carving in its tudals, doors and windows. The temple does not have an entrance guarding animal’s idols or stairway, and also the plinth height above the ground level is not high compared to other temples. This temple was not significantly damaged in 2015 earthquake.

B. Monuments situated in the Eastern Side of Patan Durbar Square

10. The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Patan is the center of importance, where the Malla kings resided and ruled Patan kingdom, between 14^th to 18^th century. The premises of the Patan Royal Palace is located at the northwestern part of the Patan Durbar Square. The palace’s entrance is facing to the west. It was originally built in the 14^th century but it was expanded in the 17^th century by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla, King Sri Nivas Malla and King Vishnu Malla. The Royal Palace and the temples in front of the palace, is collectively known as the Patan Durbar Square.

The main palace building, which is currently converted into a museum, is a four story brick masonry building, with artistically carved wooden doors, windows and balconies. The front façade of the palace, facing the lane and various temples and open public yard, displays magnificent works of wooden and metal craftsmanship. The most notable is the golden entrance door, with a gold-gilt door-tympanum (toran) above the door with artistically carved deities and auspicious Hindu signs. The second floor has 11 wooden lattice windows (ankhi-jyal in Nepali, and tiki-jya in Newari) which are not open-able. The third floor is the most important floor, from where the royals resided and looked out to the temples and streets. There are three large wooden window frames, which has a set of three open-able windows. The main window is the center window which is most elaborately carved, and also has a golden center panel, with images of auspicious deities, and signs. This central window can only be used by the Kings and the other windows are for the King’s sub-ordinates.

Front Façade of Royal Palace, Main Building

Door & Window of Royal Palace

Details of the Royal Window, with gold gilded window

The Patan Durbar Square consists of three interconnected Palace buildings, with one courtyard in each of the palace buildings, used for as resting spaces for the royals. The main courtyards within the entire Royal Palace are:

1. Keshav Narayan Chowk : Keshav Narayan Chowk is the Chowk inside the main Royal Palace building, currently the Patan Museum, to the north of the Mul Chowk. The courtyard can be reached through the magnificent main golden gate. At the centre of this Chowk, a small Keshav Narayan temple is located which gave the name to the Chowk. The construction of this courtyard was completed in 1734 making it the youngest courtyard among the others three.

Mul Chowk courtyard

Keshav Narayan Chowk courtyard

2. Mul Chowk : This is the oldest, largest and main courtyard, enclosed by the two-story palace building, which also has the main Taleju temple on the west-northern corner, and the smaller Taleju temple on its south building site. It was built during the reign of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla. The Mul Chowk has golden gate and sculptures of Ganga and Jamuna.

3. Sundari Chowk : This courtyard is on the inner side of the third Palace building, was built in 1647 during the reign of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla. This is the smallest courtyard and consists of a magnificently carved sunken water sprout, known as Tusha hiti – which is also known as the royal bath.

Degutale Temple

Sundari Chowk courtyard

11. Degutale Temple

Taleju Temple

The Degutale temple was built in 1661 by King Shiva Simha Malla in honour of goddess Taleju. It is built on the palace base and mid portion causing it to be 7-8 story high only with a triple set of roofs. It is one of the major attractions of patan. Recently it suffered some damage due to 2015 earthquake and now it is in renovation stage.

12. Taleju Temple

Taleju temple is built in 1667 by King Sri Nivasa Malla as a very important family deity, Taleju Bhawani. The temple was built on top of the Royal Palace in the Mul Chowk courtyard. The 3 story pagoda roofed temple is octagonal in shape and only the uppermost roof is made of metal and other two lower roofs are with clay tiles.

It is believed that the goddess Teleju’s secret mantras would ensure uninterrupted Royal rule. The temple is opened only once a year for the Kings and a few selected priests. During the 2015 earthquake, the temple was partially damaged and reconstruction work is underway.

Mani Mandaps

Manga Hiti

13. Mani Mandap

Mani mandap are two wooden ceremonial pavilions that overlook the Manga Hiti. It was built in 1700 for the use in the elaborate ceremonies at royal coronations. Each mandap is open and supported by 16 wooden carved columns, with clay tiled roof and tudals to support the roof. Both the mandaps collapsed in the 2015 earthquake but they have been successfully renovated.

14. Manga Hiti

The Manga Hiti is the oldest working stone water spout, originally constructed in 570. It is immediately across from Bhimsen Temple and north of main Royal Palace building, is the sunken stone water spout called the Manga Hiti. The water spout level is approximately 3m below ground level, and three wonderfully carved hitis (water spouts) exists in the shape of makara (mythical crocodile-like beasts). The area is a spacious (approximately 15m x 15m ) and brick walled with three stepped terraces. Till recently water was been collected by the general public.

15.

King Yog Narendra Malla’s Statue,

atop a Stone Pillar

King Yog Narendra Malla’s Pillar

North of Hari Shankar temple, and front of Narshingh temple, and directly in front of Degutale temple’s palace bulding, is a stone column topped by a striking bronze statue of sitting King Yog Narendra Malla (1684–1705) and his two queens, kneeling in prayer. The king has a snake canopy (Karkotak naga) and a golden bird on top of the snake’s head.

Legend has it that, before King Yog Narendra Malla disappeared for an unknown destination, he proclaimed that as long as the golden bird remains on top of the naga, the he may still return to his palace. Accordingly a door and window of the palace are always kept open and his bed and hookah pipe is kept ready.

During the 2015 earthquake, of the 8.21m stone pillar, the upper part with the king’s statue and the metal and stone pedestal was fallen down and badly damaged. The king’s statue was restored and re-erected to its original state.

16. Tusha Hiti

Tusha Hiti inside Sundari Chowk

Bhandarkhal Pond, rear side of Palace Building

The Tusha Hiti, also known as Royal Bath, is a sunken bath (150 cm below ground level) used by the Malla royal family in Nepal. It is at the courtyard of Sundari Chowk, Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur. King Siddhi Narasing Malla is credited with building the bath in the 17th century. The bath’s walls features idols of Ashta Matrikas, eight Bhariavs and Nagas, and the polished bronze spout features idols of Vishnu and Laxmi residing on Garuda. In front of the royal bath is a rectangular stone bed structure.

17. Bhandarkhal Pond

The Bhandarkhal Pond is located to the rear side of Patan's Royal Palace and is not visible to from outside by the general public. Constructed in the late 17th century, it served as the primary water supply of Patan's Royal Palace. The pond is roughly square in plan, measuring 16 x 16 m. It comprises three stepped terraces, first two levels are faced in stone, while the lower level is faced in brick. Water is supplied via the Lohan Hiti water spout located on the east side of the pond.

Conclusion

Patan Durbar Square is an important site of cultural monuments that have given opportunity to understanding Nepalese history. Patan’s numerous buildings and monuments have greatly influenced the promotion and preservation of our own traditional architecture and heritage. The different stone inscriptions, sculptures, paintings etc. have given us true information on the different kings of the time and their reign. The monuments within the Patan Durbar Square has been preserved to some extent, but enough care is needed, so our future generations can also understand the past history. Due to the 2015 earthquake, many monuments were destroyed, however, with the efforts of many preservationists, and support from different agencies, many of the historically important monuments have been reconstructed to its original form.

Nepal is a religiously diverse country. Especially the Kathmandu Valley demonstrates the religious harmony between Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. The Royals of Malla dynasty followed the Hindu philosophy but also supported in the building the religious sites of Buddhist philosophy. Both the philosophy had their unique culture and architectural representation. Patan is an excellent example, where Hindu temples and Buddhist Mahavihars co-exists.

Kathmandu Valley and especially Patan town has preserved its historical sites. The Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur Durbars still look alive today, and its enlistment to the World Heritage Sites has added to their importance. Besides the World Heritage monuments, there are numerous streets in the valley that are filled with Nepali culture and architecture. All of Nepalese need to work together and adopt different techniques to promote and preserve the traditional art, sculptures and architecture, because, once it is lost, we cannot retrieve it again.

Some of the recommended ways of preservations are :

· There should be periodic checking of the overall conditions of monuments and effective measures should be taken for their timely repair to minimize damage caused earthquakes, rain and natural weathering

· The general public visiting the site, should be educated to take care of the monuments, and respect its importance, and not use them only as a place of entertainment

· There should be regular campaigns, art exhibitions and other programs to educate the general public about the importance of this World Heritage Site

· Youth should be encouraged to study or join the field of Fine Arts, History, Culture and Conservation

· wood, metal and stone artists should be acknowledged and awarded for their unique ability and encouraged to keep the art alive for many future generations

· More advertisement should be made to inform the foreign tourists about the completion of reconstruction works.

Acknowledgement

The author of this paper, would like to acknowledge all the kind people, and my teachers, who helped and encouraged me to prepare this paper. The author has borrowed the photographs of various monuments of Patan Durbar Square, without receiving their prior consent to use them, and sources of the photographs has not been included, since this paper is my academic exercise only. Lastly, I wish to thank Mr. M. K. Manandhar for his support, guidance and editing of this paper.

Reference Material

1. D. Pant, “Restoration of 17th century Royal Residence in Patan, Nepal– some issues and challenges.” Conservation and Management of Historic Buildings Advanced International Programme, Lund University 2009/10.

2. GoN, Depart. Of Archeology, Management Hand Book for Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone, 2007

3. ICOMOS – ICCROM, Analysis of Case Studies in Recovery and Reconstruction, Vol. 2, 2020

4. S.R. Tiwari, “The Ancient Settlements of the Kathmandu Valley”, Tribhuvan University, 2001

Author’s Introduction

Shradheya Krishna Manandhar, resident of Maiti Devi, Kathmandu, is currently a grade 9 student, at DAV Shushil Kedia Bishwa Bharati Higher Secondary School, Jawalakhel. He is interested in history, geography, culture, festivals, heritage and their preservation. He has published articles, papers, essays and poems on various topics. He can be reached at : shradheyamanandhar@gmail.com

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Patan : An Open Museum of Cultural Monuments and Heritage

Shradheya Krishna Manandhar (9C)

DAV Shushil Kedia Bishwa Bharati Higher Secondary School

Introduction: Patan was first founded during the Kirant Dynasty. During the rule of the Kirants, Nepal made considerable progress in the field of art and architecture, trade and commerce. The Kirants were not only good warriors but also good administrators who took good care of the administrative of the country. After the Kirants there came the Licchavi period. The country flourished in the time Licchavi period. It is known as the golden age of Nepal due to the good governance and administration which brought peace, prosperity and stable political scenario during this period. Hinduism as well as other religions such as Buddhism, were encouraged in this period.

The ancient city of Patan is located in the center bounded by four Ashoka stupas at the periphery of the then outskirts of Patan town constructed by the disciples of King Ashoka, when Buddhism was flourishing in South Asian countries. By consecutively joining the four Ashoka stupas, they form a perfect parallelogram in shape, which is very unique. (see Fig. 1)

Patan has always been a city of Newars. From the Kirant times the Newars here have embraced the knowledge of Buddhism and are following it. The main teachings of Buddhism had reached Patan from King Ashoka and his disciples. In these periods there were many works of Buddhism with many temples and stupas, chaitya along with Vihars and Mahavihars, were constructed during Licchavi period. The beautiful city of Patan was ruled successfully until King Shiva Malla, the ruler of Kathmandu conquered Patan and ordered the unification of the Kathmandu valley. The development of Patan increased in the 16^th and 17^th century.

“Patan is an open museum.” This is statement made by renowned cultural activist and historian of Patan. What is meant by this statement is that the town of Patan has monuments and artifacts of historical and cultural importance in every nook and corner of its numerable streets and alleys. Patan is also one of the oldest Buddhist cities. It is a center of both Hinduism and Buddhism with 136 bahals or courtyards and 55 major temples. The center of attraction and importance being the Patan Durbar Square, which has more than 20 monuments of exhibits the highest levels of Nepalese architecture that dates to 15^th to 18^th century. In addition to these temples with the Patan Durbar Square premises, there are numerous small shrines, Vihars and Mahavihars. These monuments lie openly along streets and alleys – and some important ones are bounded by closed boundaries.

The temples, stupas and Vihars are constructed at different times during the rule of different kings – some important and large ones are erected by the rulers, and some by common people, who collectively contribute their labour and material, by forming a trust fund (called “guthi”). The guthi generally have land parcels under its ownership, and the yearly income from the land is used for the construction, rehabilitation, renovation and celebration of festivals. The most important and known is the Rato Machhendra Nath Guthi Jatra, which has a beautifully constructed 3 story pagoda style temple dedicated to the god of Rato Machhendra Nath, and a month-long, grand yearly chariot parade through the streets of Patan – one of the most important celebration for Patan inhabitants. This collective guthi functioning is a very impressive communal functioning that is a unique characteristic of newar community from the Kathmandu Valley.

Fig. 1 : Schematic Diagram of Patan’s Core Area during Malla Era, and Locations of Temples, Mahavihars and Hitis

Table 1 : List of Monuments in Patan

Mahavihars in Patan
Aksheshwor Mahavihar	Gopi Chandra Mahavihar	Jyoti Varna Mahavihar	Padmoccha Mahavihara	Shakya Singha Mahavihar
Bachchha Mahavihar	Guna Laxmi Mahavihar	Kamukanama Mahavihara	Pashuwarna Mahavihar	Simha Varna Raja Shri Mahavihar
Bajra Kriti Mahavihar	Gustala Mahavihara	Lalitchandra Mahavihara	Rajashree Mahavihara	Sri Vaccha Mahavihara
Balandar Gupta Mahavihar	Hiranya Varna Mahavihar	Lok Kirti Mahavihar	Raksheshwara Mahavihara	Sumangal Mahavihar
Basuraja Mahavihara	Ibahi Mahavihar	Maha Budddha	Ratnakar Mahavihar	Surash Chandra Mahavihar
Chakra Varna Mahavihar	Itiraja Mahavihara	Mani Mandap Mahavihar	Rudra Varna Mahavihar	Thaveer Patra Mahavihara
Chandra Surya Mahavihara	Jaya Manohar Mahavihar	Mayur Varna Mahavihar	Rudradeva Mahavihara	Vaishra Varna Mahavihar
Dattanama Mahavihar	Jayashree Mahavihara	Napichandra Mahavihara	Sanskarita Jyesthavarna Mahavihar	Yasodhar Mahavihar
Dharma Kriti Mahavihar	Jyestha Varna Mahavihara	Padmavati Mahavihar	Saptapur Mahavihara	Yempi Mahavihar
Temples in Patan
Agni Shala	Maha Bouddha	Shiva	Jhatapot Ganesh	Buddha
Balagamukhi	Rato Machhendra Nath	Uma Maheshwar	Mani Ganesh	Chamundar Devi
Batuk Bhairab	Manjushree	Sweta Bhairab	Gaugal Ganesh	Kumbeshwore
Bhagawati	Min Nath	Ta Dhoka Shiva	Walku Ganesh	Purna Chandi
Bhairab	Narayan	Shiva	Swatha Krishna	Radha Krishna
Bhawani	Pimbahal Krishna	Swatha Narayan	Hakha Ganesh	Raj Rajeshwori
Chapat Ganesh
Hities (Water Spouts) in Patan
Manga	Chyasa	Lagankhel	Narayan	Sincha
Sundhara	Tangal	Gaital	Amrit	Misha
Alko	Puccho	Tusha	Kwachhen
Konti	Jawalakhel	Kumbeshwore	Chhyabahal
Monuments in Patan Durbar Square
Char Narayan Temple	Kashi Bishwo Nath Temple	Keshav Narayan Chowk	Royal Palace	Mani Mandap
Narshinga Temple	Bhimsen Temple	Mul Chowk	Taleju Temple (Main)	Manga Hiti
Vishwanath Temple	Hari Shankar Temple	Sundari Chowk	Taleju Temple	Tusha Hiti
Krishna Mandir Temple	Chyasin Dewal Temple	Degutale Temple	King Yog Narendra Malla’s Pillar	Bhandarkhal Pond
Narayan Temple

Some of the major Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage sites in Patan area:

1. Maha Bouddha Temple

The Maha Bouddha temple of Patan is located in the tole of Oku Bahal and near the Rudra Varna Mahavihar, which is about 60 m south-east of Patan Durbar Square. The temple cannot be seen from the outside street and since it is hidden by tall private buildings, and the main access to the temple is only through a narrow path of less than 3 m.

The Maha Bouddha Temple is dedicated to Siddhartha Gautam Buddha. Its construction was started in 1564 by Abhaya Raj Shakya. He was inspired to build the Buddha temple after his visit to the famous Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya, India. He was determined to make a smaller version of the Mahabodhi temple dedicated to the Buddha, his life and his teachings. By using his savings he had earned as an coin-minter for the then king he was successful to lay the foundations of Maha Bouddha Temple, within a narrow space available, in the courtyard enclosed by private houses. After the passing of Abhaya Raj, his 5 sons continued on its construction. The entire temple was completed after 37 years of start of construction, in 1601, by the grand-sons of Abhaya Raj. The monument turned out to be masterpiece and gained acclaim in and around the country – for the determination of a common man to undertake such an enormous task and get successful after three generations, was a greatly commendable task. The family’s name is written in golden letters and remembered even after 450 years.

Maha Bouddha Temple - surrounded by Private Houses

The Maha Bouddha temple is based on Shikhar style of architecture and contains a tapering central dome. The main material used for its construction is fire baked red-clay bricks. Each facing brick has an image of sitting meditative posture of Buddha engraved into it – the image is sculptured in every clay brick before it was fire-baked. Besides the image of Buddha, the cornices, corner-stones, lintels, tympanums are engraved clay bricks of images of various Hindu deities, animals such as singha, garuds, auspicious and tantric images etc. The high quality terracotta bricks have survived five centuries and are still lively.

The main statue of golden Buddha in meditative posture is enshrined in the ground level, and can be seen from outside the temple. There are stone idols of meditating buddhas in each side’s central part inside small chambers, with elaborately engraved clay tympanums. Four small sized tapering domes with metal pinnacles (or minarets) – which resemble the Maha Bauddha temple itself – is erected at the four corners of the first floor of the main temple. The first floor can be accessed through a steps hidden inside the temple. The main tapering conical column dome extends from the first floor and the entire temple as approximately 22m in height and square plinth of 6.5m. This temple is divided into five storeys: Shakya Singha is enshrined at the centre of the first storey, Amitabha is on the second, a small stone chaitya is on the third, the Dharm dhatu-mandal is on the fourth and the Vajra dhatu-mandal can be found on the fifth storey. The main central pinnacle (gajur) is of gold-gilt dome with same image as the Swayambhu Nath Stupa.

The Maha Bouddha temple was slightly damaged during the 2015 earthquake. Four stone columns of size 10cm x 10cm x 150cm were broken and had to replaced by strong black granite stone column recently.

2. Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden temple)

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (also popularly known as the Golden Temple) is believed to be established by Bhaskar Dev Verma in 12^th century. It is located 350m north-west of Patan Durbar Square in the Kwa Bahal Tole. It is considered one of Patan’s most popular and graceful Vihars.

One needs to enter from the two small courtyards in front of the Vihar to reach the main courtyard. The main courtyard is approximately of the size 10 m by 10 m and a small one storied temple exists in the center of this main courtyard. The main temple is the three storied temple built on the main temple building, which has three storied pagoda styled roofs that houses the golden idol of the main deity of the temple named Lord Lokeshwar (Shakyamuni Buddha). Lots of golden sculptures of Buddha in different stages of his life are present in each column, tudals and most part of the walls. The main entrance is guarded by two sitting lions in the front and four standing lions in each corner. On the 4 corners of the courtyard lies 4 statues of Lokeshwar which indicates benevolence (Maitree), compassion (Karuna), empathy and joy.

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (the Golden Temple) and a Boy Priest of the Temple

This Mahavihar has a special way of selecting its priests. Two priests of the Shakya and Bajracharya community are selected for each month. Among the two, one is an adult and another is a male child below the age of 12. For one month the two male priests have to follow a strict routine in which they have to perform regular worships. The priests have to stay in the Mahavihar and refrain from other homely items. Only holy food can be taken, and no bodily contacts can be made with other people. The young priests claim that they attain spiritual cleansing of their mind, during their one month stay in the Mahavihar and it is a special lifetime experience.

3. Rudra Varna Mahavihar

Rudra Varna Mahavihar, believed to be established by Shiva Deva in the 6^th century in Oku Bahal of Patan. It was renovated by King Rudra Dev some 400 years ago from which it got its name Shiva Dev Sashakarita Shree Rudra Varna Mahavihar. It is located south-east of Patan Durbar Square and is one of the major attractions of Patan city.

It has a peaceful environment with different works of arts and crafts made of various metals and stones. After reaching the main courtyard we can observe a big three storied temple with metal sheet roofs. Many tudals are beautifully carved and the roof and walls containing multiple sculptures of Buddha and Lord Vishnu are made golden. It is guarded by two large stone sitting lions at the entrance of the courtyard and the courtyard itself contains other metal statues of five different animals. The main deity is the Shakamuni Buddha with red painted face. The top of the pagoda contains 15 gajurs laid in series, which is a rear example.

Other monuments of Buddhist importance, such as series of prayer-wheels (mane), dharmadhatu, mini stupas and a thunderbolt are present. On the left side of the courtyard, a standing statue of Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher is erected on a pedestal. According to the vihar’s priest, this Rana statue does not hold any relation to the Mahavihar’s construction, but was erected here, since the statue had some flaws and was a rejected piece.

At present some renovation works is undertaking. Metal coverings for the brick walls is presently being installed, to enhance the beauty and strength of the temple. The rear side of the Mahavihar, is a large courtyard which also has a small stupa built in its center.

4. Ratnakar Mahavihar

Ratnakar Mahavihar - front elevation

Ratnakar Mahavihar is another popular Mahavihar of Patan, located 300m west of the Patan Durbar square on the main east-west street of Mangalbazar. It was built in the time of the Licchavi period. The Mahavihar’s overall structure is very similar to Rudra Varna and Hiranya Varna Mahavihars, with the main pagoda styled three story temple and a courtyard which contains many Buddhist monuments. The main temples tudals are beautifully carved and the roof and walls containing multiple sculptures of Buddha and Lord Vishnu – which are gold gilted. Its entrance is guarded by two stone sitting lions. The courtyard itself contains other small monuments of Buddhist importance such as series of prayer-wheels (mane), dharmadhatu, and thunderbolt.

5. Kumbeshwor temple and Bagalamukhi temple

The Kumbeshwor temple is located 300m North of the Patan Durbar Square. Built in 1392 by King Jayasthiti Malla it is one of the oldest temples of Nepal. The temple is built in pagoda style and Lord Shiva is enshrined in this temple. It is the only five storied temple in Patan. The temple is present in an open courtyard with few houses surrounding it. The temples is not as grand as the five story temple – the Nyatapola temple of Bhaktapur.

Kumbeshwore Temple

The temple has plinth dimensions of 8m x 6m. Due to its small base for such a big temple one can easily see how much it tapers as it goes higher. It contains a golden pinnacle (gajur) on top with another two thin strands of gold covering the pinnacle. The pagoda roofs are of metal roofs which are very shiny in the daylight. There are a total of a 136 tudals supporting the roofs. Each tudal is carved beautifully and the deities of the top floor is also visible clearly. The Kumbeshwor temple has gone through 4 big earthquakes since its construction. The 2015 earthquake partially damaged the building but of today its renovation work is completed making it open for visitors.

The enormous Kumbeshwor courtyard is also the home to the Bagalamukhi temple. The Baglamukhi temple is quite unique and very popular Hindu destination. But it contains many features of a temple such as the tudals, pinnacle and the pataka. Two deities are worshipped in that temple - one being goddess Durga and the other being Bhairab.

The premises of Kumbeshwor and Bagalamukhi temple also contains two sites for stone water spouts (hitis) which are still used by the local people.

6. Rato Machindra Nath Temple

Rato Machindra Nath Temple - its courtyard used to dry grain

The main courtyard of the Rato Machindra Nath can be entered from the west gates which is a large wooden gate. On entering the courtyard one can easily see the grand Rato Machindra Nath temple. It is a three storied Hindu temple built in pagoda style with all three metal sheet roofs.

The temple’s base is of plinth size of 8.4m x 8.4m and the plinth level is 1m from the ground level. The central pinnacle (gajur) is quite unique and is of golden domes. From the gajur, two strips of golden Pataka extends down to the first pagada roof . There are a total of 52 tudals (struts) whose size are larger than the tudals seen in other temples. These tudals are with beautiful carvings of deities which have been colorfully painted also. The temple has four wooden doors which are very artistically carved. The main wooden door and tympanums at the front side is covered by repoussed metal sheet with various artistic design. Similarly, as per the temple’s priests, the Rana rulers donated 34 kg of silver, to decorate the main entrance of the temple with silver carvings. The temple has a 1 m diameter large bell hanging on its plinth floor. In front of the temple, there small statues of various people and animals on erected on stone pedastals.

The main deity of the temple is Machindra Nath (commonly known as Bunga: Dyo, in Newari language). Machindra Nath among Buddhists is an incarnation of Avaloketiserva and according to Hindus is an incarnation of Shiva. Machindra Nath is believed to be the god who provides rains for the fields and who ends the drought in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple has a big role in the Machindra Nath festival in which a chariot pulling occasion takes place. In the festival the statue of the deity from this temple is paraded through the chariot. Many people come to participate in this chariot pulling process which is continued for a month.

The temple’s many wooden sculptures are seen to have deteriorated due to touching by visitors, pollution, colour. To prevent weakening of the craving on wooden this proper measures of preservation of these wooden sculptures should be taken as they deteriorate easily.

The entire courtyard is a large courtyard with a dimensions of 78m x 50m. This spacious courtyard is used by the nearby locals as a resting place, water collection from the well, grain drying place, and for festivals. The effect of 2015 earthquake is not much noticed in this temple site.

7. Manga Hiti

Manga Hiti of Patan Durbar Square –

People lining to collect water

Among the various cultural heritage of Patan city, the stone water spouts (known as Hitis in Newari language and Dunge Dhara in Nepali language) are also one of them, since they have been in existence from the mediaeval periods and some are still in working condition. Some of the identified hitis are listed in Table 1. The most famous and popular hiti is the Manga Hiti is the oldest working stone water spout, originally constructed in 570, and lies adjacent to the Patan’s Royal Palace building in Patan Durbar Square. It is named Manga because it is the sunken from the ground level. The water spout level is approximately 3m below ground level, and three wonderfully carved stone spouts, its outlet shaped as makara (mythical crocodile-like beasts).

The hiti area is a spacious (approximately 15m x 15m ) and brick walled with three stepped terraces. Till recently local people gather here to collect water, during nowadays, during the dry seasons of winter months, water has ceased to flow from the hitis.

Conclusion

Nepal is known for its religious harmony and the unique coexistence and amalgamation of Hinduism and Buddhist beliefs, that can be seen in the monuments in the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The kings of the Malla dynasty (1200–1769 AD) were Hindu and established many Hindu temples, and made donations to many Buddhist Mahavihars. The town of Patan exhibits a large numbers of Hindu and Buddhist temples, shrines, stupas, Vihars and Mahavihars that can be seen within every streets and alleys of core Patan area. Thus, scholars have named Patan as an “open museum of cultural heritage sites”. However, many of these priceless heritage monuments lie in a neglected condition – there brightness and luster slowly gets diminished.

The present local governments, communities, and everyone concerned needs to come up with steps to conserve and preserve our monuments from further deteriorating, and take care of them as we do to our own personal properties. The well preserved cultural monuments, the beautiful natural sceneries of the Himalayan mountains, hills and plains – can be synonymous for Nepal’s introduction to the world.

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Shradheya's Diary

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

Historical and Cultural Significance of Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur

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