Dattatreya Square
Step back in time at Dattatreya Square, home to a 15th-century temple adorned with exquisite wood carvings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for carvings
Dattatreya Square
Best Time
Best light for carvings

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Dattatreya Square, home to a 15th-century temple adorned with exquisite wood carvings.
"A visit to the Dattatraya Temple in Bhaktapur is truly a step back in time, offering a profound glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural and architectural heritage."
🚶 Walk from Durbar Square
Enjoy the historic walk from Durbar Square; many ancient features await discovery along the path. :walking:
📸 Capture the Details
Allow ample time to admire and photograph the stunning, intricate wood carvings. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dattatreya Temple
Dattatreya Square
A 15th-century, three-story pagoda temple renowned for its incredibly detailed wood carvings.

Intricate Wood Carvings
Dattatreya Temple exterior
Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship depicting deities, mythical creatures, and daily life scenes.

Malla Wrestlers & Conch Shell
Temple Entrance
Two fierce Malla wrestlers and a giant conch shell guard the entrance, adding to the mystical aura.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Dattatreya Square
Navigating Bhaktapur's Heritage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk from Durbar Square
Enjoy the historic walk from Durbar Square; many ancient features await discovery along the path. :walking:
📸 Capture the Details
Allow ample time to admire and photograph the stunning, intricate wood carvings. :camerawithflash:
🧘 Soak in the Peace
Dattatreya Square is more subdued than Durbar Square, perfect for quiet contemplation. :pray:
🎨 Appreciate Newari Art
Experience the rich Newari craftsmanship in architecture and carvings. :art:
Bhaktapur recommendations
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk from Durbar Square
Enjoy the historic walk from Durbar Square; many ancient features await discovery along the path. :walking:
📸 Capture the Details
Allow ample time to admire and photograph the stunning, intricate wood carvings. :camerawithflash:
🧘 Soak in the Peace
Dattatreya Square is more subdued than Durbar Square, perfect for quiet contemplation. :pray:
🎨 Appreciate Newari Art
Experience the rich Newari craftsmanship in architecture and carvings. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Dattatreya Square for its profound historical and architectural significance, particularly the stunning wood carvings of the Dattatreya Temple. Many appreciate its more tranquil atmosphere compared to Durbar Square, offering a contemplative experience. Some note that it's a vital part of any Bhaktapur walking tour.
"A visit to the Dattatraya Temple in Bhaktapur is truly a step back in time, offering a profound glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Nestled in Dattatraya Square, this magnificent temple stands as a testament to the Malla dynasty's artistic prowess, dating back to the 15th century. It’s remarkable to think that this three-story pagoda-style structure, said to be built from the timber of a single tree, has withstood centuries and numerous earthquakes, though it has seen its share of restoration.
What strikes you first is the sheer scale and intricate detailing of the wood carvings that adorn every inch of the temple. From the elaborate struts supporting the roofs to the exquisite windows and doorways, each carving tells a story, often depicting deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from daily life. The two fierce Malla wrestlers guarding the entrance, along with the giant conch shell, add to its mystical aura.
Beyond its architectural grandeur, the temple exudes a palpable sense of peace and history. Unlike the bustling Durbar Square, Dattatraya Square feels a bit more subdued, allowing for a more contemplative experience. You can spend a good amount of time simply admiring the craftsmanship, feeling the cool stone beneath your feet, and soaking in the spiritual ambiance. The surrounding square itself is charming, with smaller shrines, traditional houses, and local artisans going about their day. It’s a place where history isn't just displayed but actively lived. For anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the vibrant chaos of Bhaktapur, Dattatraya Temple is an absolute must-visit. It truly leaves a lasting impression."
Ganesh Rizzal
"Include this on your walking tour of Bhaktapur. The walk from Durbar Square is interesting with many historic features to look at. There is a large water tank by the square, some beautiful wood carvings and of course the main and secondary temple.We enjoyed watching 🥰"
Ram Gurung
"The Dattaatreya Temple, located in Bhaktapur, Nepal, is a historic and culturally significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, a composite deity embodying the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Believed to have been originally built in 1427 AD during the reign of King Yaksha Malla, the temple is famous for its intricate wood carvings and traditional Newari architecture. Legend claims it was constructed using timber from a single tree. The temple is a spiritual and artistic landmark, drawing both devotees and tourists alike."
riddhi shrestha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dattatreya Square is a pleasant and relatively short walk from Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions. The walk itself is part of the experience, with many historic buildings and smaller shrines to observe along the way.
While Bhaktapur itself is accessible by bus from Kathmandu, getting directly to Dattatreya Square might involve a short walk from the main bus stops within Bhaktapur. Taxis are also an option for direct access.
A walking tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and architectural nuances of Dattatreya Square and the surrounding ancient city of Bhaktapur.
Parking within the ancient city of Bhaktapur can be challenging. It's advisable to park at designated areas outside the core heritage zones and explore on foot.
Yes, licensed guides are available in Bhaktapur, including near Durbar Square and Dattatreya Square, who can provide in-depth historical and cultural insights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, typically a heritage entry ticket is required for Bhaktapur, which covers access to Durbar Square, Dattatreya Square, and other heritage sites within the ancient city. This ticket is usually purchased at entry points to Bhaktapur.
The Dattatreya Temple is generally open during daylight hours. However, specific timings can vary, and it's best to check locally upon arrival. The square itself is accessible throughout the day.
The main entry fee is for Bhaktapur's heritage zone, which includes Dattatreya Square. There might be separate small fees for entering specific inner sanctums of temples, but the square and the temple exteriors are covered by the general ticket.
While online ticketing options are becoming more common, it's often easiest to purchase the Bhaktapur heritage entry ticket upon arrival at one of the main entry points to the ancient city.
Photography is generally allowed in Dattatreya Square and of the temple exteriors. However, photography inside the inner sanctums of temples is usually prohibited. Always be respectful of local customs and ask if unsure.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire square offers great photographic opportunities. Focus on the intricate wood carvings of the Dattatreya Temple, the Malla wrestlers at the entrance, and the surrounding traditional Newari architecture. The large water tank also provides a good vantage point.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. This also coincides with fewer crowds.
Don't miss the detailed struts supporting the temple roofs, the exquisite windows, the guardian wrestlers, and the giant conch shell. The surrounding daily life of artisans also makes for compelling shots.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wider shots of the square and details of the carvings. A wide-angle lens can be great for the temple's scale. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of crowds. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is generally restricted in heritage sites and densely populated areas in Nepal. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find several local eateries and tea houses in and around Dattatreya Square offering traditional Newari cuisine and snacks. These provide a great opportunity to sample local flavors.
Look for 'Samay Baji' (a traditional platter), 'Chatamari' (Newari pizza), and 'Yomari' (a sweet dumpling). Many small restaurants serve these authentic dishes.
While street food can be tempting, it's advisable to choose vendors who appear clean and busy. Opting for cooked food that is served hot is generally safer. Bottled water is recommended. :knifeforkplate:
Yes, several small cafes and tea houses offer a place to rest, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, and perhaps a light snack while taking in the atmosphere of the square. :coffee:
Prices are generally affordable, especially in local eateries. Expect to pay a reasonable amount for a meal, with prices varying based on the type of establishment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for specific carvings or imagine the stories behind them. The walk from Durbar Square can also be made into a mini-adventure. Consider bringing snacks and water, as options within the immediate square might be limited to small tea houses. The overall experience provides a gentle introduction to Nepal's rich cultural heritage in a manageable and visually stimulating environment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best textures and colors. The less crowded nature of Dattatreya Square compared to Durbar Square allows for more time to compose shots and experiment with different angles. Be mindful of local customs and avoid intrusive photography, especially of people. The vibrant local life also presents opportunities for candid shots that tell a story.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Beyond the temple, the square itself is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into the urban planning and cultural life of ancient Bhaktapur. Exploring the surrounding traditional houses and smaller shrines provides a deeper understanding of the city's heritage. The peaceful ambiance allows for in-depth appreciation of the historical context and architectural details without the overwhelming crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Dattatreya Temple
Visitors are often struck by the sheer detail and artistry, from the elaborate struts supporting the roofs to the exquisitely carved windows and doorways. The temple's resilience is also remarkable, having survived centuries and numerous earthquakes, though it has undergone restoration. The two imposing Malla wrestlers guarding the main entrance, along with a giant conch shell, add to the temple's imposing and mystical presence. It's a place where history and art converge, offering a profound glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage.
Beyond the main temple, Dattatreya Square itself is a vibrant hub of activity and historical significance. The square features smaller shrines, traditional Newari houses, and often local artisans at work. Unlike the more crowded Durbar Square, Dattatreya Square tends to offer a more contemplative and peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the historical ambiance and appreciate the architectural wonders at a relaxed pace. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or seeking a deeper connection with Nepal's past.
Experiencing Dattatreya Square: A Local's Perspective
Many visitors recommend including Dattatreya Square as part of a walking tour of Bhaktapur. The walk from Durbar Square is often described as interesting, with historical features to discover along the route. The presence of a large water tank by the square adds to its charm and historical context. It's a place where you can truly feel the pulse of the ancient city and appreciate its enduring cultural traditions.
For photographers, the square provides ample opportunities to capture the essence of Bhaktapur. The interplay of light and shadow on the intricate carvings, the vibrant local life, and the architectural grandeur all contribute to stunning visual narratives. It’s a place that rewards slow exploration and keen observation, offering a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural richness of Nepal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit