Hanuman Dhoka

Hanuman Dhoka is the royal palace in Kathmandu. It was constructed sometime between the 4th and 8th centuries AD. It had 35 courtyards, now known as chowks, but an earthquake in 1934 reduced the size of the palace to its current ten chowks. 

Things to do at Hanuman Dhoka:

• Admire the installations:

The enormous stone statue of Hanuman that is located at the principal entrance to the Durbar Square on the east side of Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu is a trendy tourist destination there.

The statue is depicted with an umbrella and is dressed in red garments that wrap its entire body. Numerous worshipers make their way to the monument daily to pray there.

• Study the most spectacular specimens of Newari architecture:

The Nasal Chok Courtyard, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated on the eastern side of Hanuman Dhoka. Beautiful windows, delicately carved wooden frames and entrances depicting Hindu deities are some of the architectural highlights of the courtyard.

Visitors can admire stunning pictures of the Shah Kings and King Malla's throne here. n addition, this neighborhood is home to the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple and the Basantpur Skyscraper, a nine-story tower.

• Pay your respects and seek blessings at Mul-Chowk:

This region is home to a few shrines and is often regarded as the most suitable setting for carrying out a variety of significant rites. When someone entered the old building with three roofs, they would first witness various representations of the goddesses Ganga and Yamuna before reaching the idol of the presiding Goddess inside the building. The Mallas were devout followers of Goddess Taleju in their religion. 

During the Dasain festival, the marketplace of Mul Chowk is revered as the home of Taleju Bhawani, the regal Goddess of the Mallas, and offerings of sacrificial offerings are made to her in the middle of the courtyard. 

• Explore the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum:

There are museums in Hanuman Dhoka, which allow visitors to learn about the history of the area as well as the way its former residents led their lives. The Palace Museum, the King Birendra Museum, the King Mahendra Memorial Museum, and the Tribhuwan Museum are the four museums that make up the complex.

One can even find displays of artifacts that belonged to the monarchs, such as old coins, dazzling diamonds, gorgeous thrones, attractive stone and woodwork, furniture, striking weaponry, and artistic carvings from the temples. The museums also feature recreations of the bedrooms and study areas that the kings utilized.