Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the heart of Bhaktapur city, about 13 kilometers (8 miles) east of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Positioned along the ancient trade route between Tibet and India, Bhaktapur historically served as a vital economic and cultural hub in the Kathmandu Valley.

The square lies at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) and is easily accessible via the Arniko Highway, with a drive taking 30–45 minutes from central Kathmandu, depending on traffic. Public buses, tourist shuttles, and private taxis frequently travel this route, making it a convenient destination for both local and international visitors.

Surrounded by traditional Newar neighborhoods, the square is a pedestrian-friendly zone where vehicles are restricted, allowing travelers to explore the historic monuments, narrow brick-paved alleys, and open courtyards on foot in a peaceful, heritage-rich environment.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square’s history is deeply intertwined with the Malla dynasty, who consolidated their rule over the Kathmandu Valley starting in the 12th century. The Mallas were great patrons of art, culture, and religion, commissioning numerous temples, palaces, and public works.

• The 55-window palace, one of the iconic structures in the square, was built in the 15th century by King Yaksha Malla and expanded by his successors. Its elaborately carved wooden windows and brickwork remain masterpieces of Newar artisanship.
• The square flourished between the 14th and 17th centuries under rulers such as King Bhupatindra Malla, who left a lasting legacy of architectural marvels including the Nyatapola Temple and Vatsala Temple.

The Nyatapola Temple, built in 1702, is the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal, soaring five stories high at nearly 30 meters (98 feet). Dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi, it is celebrated for its perfect proportions, intricate wood carvings, and guardian statues of mythical animals and warriors guarding each tier.

• Nyatapola reflects not only religious devotion but also the engineering genius and artistic excellence of the Newar craftsmen.
• It survived the 2015 earthquake with minimal damage, a testament to the advanced construction techniques of the Malla era.

The Palace of Fifty-Five Windows served as the royal residence and administrative center. It is renowned for its elaborate wooden windows, finely carved struts, and courtyards. Inside, the palace houses the Bhaktapur Museum, which preserves royal artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and traditional artworks.

Other notable structures in the square include:

• Vatsala Temple, a beautiful Shikhara-style stone temple, famous for its massive bell.
• Dattatreya Temple, dedicated to the Hindu trinity Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, showcasing exquisite carvings.
• Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, dating back to the 4th century, and contains exquisite stone carvings and inscriptions that provide insights into early Nepali civilization.
• Taleju Bhawani Temple, dedicated to the royal goddess Taleju, was constructed in the 16th century and served as the palace’s protective deity. This temple is traditionally opened only once a year during the Dashain festival and remains a vital part of Bhaktapur’s spiritual fabric.
• Taleju Bell, also known as the “Bell of Barking Dogs”, a large bell erected by King Ranjit Malla in the 18th century. It was traditionally rung during worship at the Taleju Temple and is said to have once caused dogs across the city to howl, hence its nickname.
• Yaksheswor Temple, which was built in the 15th century by Yaksha Malla, can be found within the square. It was intended to look like the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu, so it was designed. On the wooden beams were carvings that were suggestive of sexual activity. 
• Bhandarkhal Complex, the Indrayani Temple, the Siddhi Laxmi Temple, the octagonal Chyasin Mandap, the Shiva Temple (Fasi-dega), the Vatsala Temple, Balakhu Ganesh Temple, the Chatuhma Mahavihar, the Tripura-Sundari Temple, and the Char Dham are all located in the area surrounding the plaza. 
• Pottery Square, there is a square that is well-known for its pottery, and its name is Pottery Square. Similarly, there is a temple that has been around since the 14th century and is dedicated to Jeth Ganesh. 
• Siddha Pokhari, tucked beside the main city gate of Bhaktapur, Siddha Pokhari stands as a tranquil witness to centuries of Nepalese history. Built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in the early 15th century, this human-made pond is not only the oldest of its kind in the city but also one of its most serene and culturally rich attractions.
• Various courtyards (called bahals and chowks) used for religious rituals and community gatherings.