Yenya Punhi | Indra Jatra in Bhaktapur

Indra Jatra, most commonly known as Yenya in Nepal Bhasa is the biggest religious street festival in Kathmandu, Nepal. Ye means "Kathmandu" and Ya means "celebration", together it means "celebration inside Kathmandu" in Nepal Bhasa. It is also one of the major festivals celebrated in Bhaktapur which has different celebration events with different local folk stories from that of Kathmandu.

Pulukisi in Taumadhi

Indra Jatra was started by King Gunakamadeva to commemorate the founding of Kathmandu city in the 10th century. The celebrations are held according to the lunar calendar, so the dates are changeable. This year (2020), the festival takes place from 30th August to 6th September.

Gathamaga Charhe

Gathamaga Charhe, also known as Gathemangal is one of the famous one-day festival celebrated in the Newar community. It is celebrated each year on Shrawan Krishna Chaturdashi which lies in the month of June/July. On this day people make a demon-like dummy from straw and other things representing a devil and later burn it taking far away in order to cleanse devils from the society. It is also said that mosquito loses its one leg on this day. People nowadays also named this festival as Ghanta Karna but some people say that Ghanta Karna and Gathamaga are different.

SITHI NAKHA | A NEPALESE CELEBRATION OF "RAIN BABY" KUMAR

Sithi Nakha is one of the important festivals in the Newar community which is celebrated every year on the sixth day of the bright fortnight of Jestha. This year it is on Thursday 15th Jestha, 2077 BS or 28th May 2020 AD. Sithi Nakha marks the first rain of the season before the full monsoon torrents begin to fall hence ending the dry season. It also marks the birthday of Kumar Kartikeya, the elder son of Shiva and Parvati, and the archetypal "rain baby" for the Nepalese people. The festival is celebrated in honor of Kumar, hence this day is also known as Kumar Shasthi. People worship the Pikhalakhu (a place outside the household) by drawing Mandap resembling Kumar.

Sithi Nakha also marks the end of the seven-week Dewali Puja (Digu Puja) period, during which people worship their family deity 'Digu Dya' on their particular day. By the day of Sithi Nakha, the Newar people must complete Dewali Puja. The Dewali Puja is of special significance as the newly married daughters-in-law are welcomed in the family. The Dewali Puja also includes an event of going to the open field for worshiping the family deity, where it is located in an aboriginal condition. Besides, the family members sit together and have a ritual feast.

Subarneshwor Mahadev Temple | Luchu Mahadyo

Subarneshwor Mahadev temple, also known as "Luchu Mahadyo" in local newari tongue is one of the famous temple in Bhaktapur which has great religious value. It is located at Gundu, south of Bhaktapur city in walking distance of about 30-45 minutes from Suryabinayak Chowk. This place is also known for best place to visit inside Bhaktapur leaving the choas city life.

Picture taken at 1985 AD, Photo Museum Nepal

Myth of Luchu Mahadyo

There is a myth about Luchu Mahadyo which is popular among the locals. Many years ago, when a worshipper is worshipping the god, the prayer plate touched the god. At the same time, that prayer plate converted into a gold which is very precious gem. Knowing this, people then came from different part and worshipped mahadev for the gold and then people started referring as mahadev that gives gold. This is how 'Luchu Mahadyo' name is given. In Newari, 'Lun' means gold.

Sakotha | Safu-kotha, a Medieval Library

Sakotha lies to the east of Bhaktapur Durbar Square and north of Taumadhi Square. Name of this place seemed to be derived from the name of medieval library Safu Kotha. In Nepal(Newari) Language, Safu means 'Book' and kotha means 'room'. Today the main house where the library was established is partially destroyed by recent earthquake in April 2015.

Cr. Prajen Gwala Bhadel

When Lichhaviees first came to Nepal that is today's Kathmandu Valley, they brought many more valuable manuscripts to Nepal and set up a library in Bhakapur and named it 'Safu Kotha'. The written history of Nepal began from Lichhaviees King Mandev, so it is also said that Safukotha is the first library of Nepal. Today this place is called Sokatha. Sakotha was famous for oriental philosophy and tantrism in 13th to 17th Century. It is said that there were more than 14000 manuscripts in the Library during that time. Bhaktapur was the main capital city before the unification of Nepal.

Biska Jatra

Biska Jatra also known as Bisket Jatra is one of the famous festival / jatra celebrated in Bhaktapur city. Biska Jatra is also celebrated in other places with Newari community like Thimi, Tokha etc but in Bhaktapur it is a special one. It is nine days and eight nights festival that witnesses huge local participants along with thousands of visitors. Very few people know that this festival is also referred as a festival that is celebrated two years, two months and two days. I will explain it in this article later.

Bhailakha at Nyatapola

Biska Jatra starts from last 4th day of month Chaitra and ends on 5th of Baisakh according to Bikram Sambat Calendar. In simple, if month Chaitra has 30 days, then Biska Jatra starts at 27th and if it has 31 days, Biska Jatra starts at 28th day of Chaitra. Biska Jatra involves pulling of chariots like tug of war from two sides, erecting around 55 feet long Yo:sing (wooden pole) and worshipping them and other deities.

Biska Jatra commences after a special Tantric ritual in the Bhairav temple in Taumadhi Tole in Bhaktapur. God Bhairav is placed in three storeyed large chariot known as "Bhailakha" in local tongue and Goddess Bhadrakali is placed in two storeyed small chariot known as "Nakinjukhacha" in local tongue. God Bir Betal also sits in Bhailakha. Both chariots are then pulled by crowds to take them to designated place.

Biska Jatra is said to be started by Malla King of Bhaktapur - Jagajyoti Malla around 3-4 centuries ago. He was fascinated by myth and folklore, and it was due to a particularly intriguing myth that Biska Jatra was established as an annual event. Biska Jatra was originally called "Bisyaku Jatra". In Newari, "bi" means snake and "syaku" means slaughter/kill) which reveals the myth of slaughter of snakes.

Myths behind Biska Jatra

There is a myth that this celebration is the "festival after the death of the serpent". According to the myth, once there was a beautiful princess but it was unfortunate that anyone who marry her, found dead the next day. It's cause remained mystery to everyone until once young man risked marrying her despite knowing the result. His elderly mother forbade him from doing so, but then another old lady offered some advice to the young lad for his safety.

Nyatapola

Legend tells of the days when the angry god Bhairab was causing havoc in society (1702 AD). Bhairab’s temple stood in Taumadhi Square. To counteract his destructive behavior the king decided to call goddess Parvati, then Parvati took the form of Siddhi Lakshmi and then carried Bhairav in her hand and built a more powerful temple on the honor of Siddhi Lakshmi(Parvati) right in front of the Bhairab Temple. To make the brick and wood temple strong and powerful, King Bhupatindra Malla ordered guardians be placed in pairs on each level of the base leading up to the Nyatapola Temple. On the first level is a pair of likenesses of Bhaktapur’s strongest man, Jaya mal Pata, a famous wrestler. Next, two elephants followed by two lions, two griffins and finally “Baghini” and “Singhini”, the tiger and lion goddesses. After subduing Bhairab, peace prevailed in the city. The Temple is the tallest temple in the Kathmandu Valley and stands 30m high. It was so well designed that it withstood a powerful 8.3 earthquake in 1934. The image of Siddhi Lakshmi is locked within the temple and only the priests are allowed to enter to worship her. The five-storeyed temple, locally known as Nyatapola, is an impressive and famous temple of Nepal, standing in the northern side of Taumadhi square in Bhaktapur. This is the only temple that is named after the dimension of architecture rather than from the name of the deity residing inside. The temple was erected within a short period of less than five months by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1701/1702 A.D. In the present context of work-schedule, planning and programming, it is very difficult to believe that the temple was erected within that short period of time. But it was the fact. The incidents are recorded day by day.
If we look at the calendar of construction it gives us an interesting picture of the spirit of the people and speed of the work accomplished within such a short period of time. The speed of work done in religious faith can never be accomplished in modern-day society run by materialistic considerations.

Nava Durga

Nava Durga Dance

From a religious point of view, the shrine of Nava Durga the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga has a high place in Bhaktapur. Nava Durga is also the combination of nine protective mother Goddess of the city. The three storied shrine which lies in Kwathando-4, Bhaktapur also popular for the its elaborately carved windows and doors. It seems huge crowd of devotees during Dashain (October), the greatest festival of Hindu in nepal. A wood carved window and the northern facade displays the Chariot of Bhairav which has its own importance and significance.

Kamalbinayak

Kamal Pokhari

Besides Surya Vinayak two other Ganesh Shrines surround Bhaktapur. One of these Ganesh’s temples is Kamal Binayak, which is located just to the northeast of town, along the Nagarkot road at Kamal Pokhari. This temple of Ganesh, is mostly visited by the local people for the purpose of giving ability to quickly learn and speak their children. Besides, it is also a well known place for its peaceful environment and among youths, couples to spend their idle time.

Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan is the name of the deity enshrined in the Changu Narayan Temple, located near the Changunarayan village in Bhaktapur. The temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples of the valley, and is believed to have been constructed in the 4th century. Changu Narayan is the name of Vishnu, and the Temple is dedicated to him. A stone slab discovered in the vicinity of the temple dates to the 5th century, and is the oldest such stone inscription discovered in Nepal. The Changu Narayan Temple is one of seven structures cited by UNESCO as demonstrating the historic and artistic achievements that make the Kathmandu Valley(Bhaktapur) a World Heritage Site.

Known as the biggest among the Narayans, Changu Narayan has greater importance than the others. It is situated at the top of the hill. One can view the beautiful white Himalayas and hills in the north and the whole panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley. The steep green hill of pines adds to its beauty.

Changu Narayan Temple

Siddha Pokhari

Of the many ponds in Bhaktapur, SiddhaPokhari is the largest, rectangular pond located near the main city gate. It is called "Ta-Pukhu" in the local tongue which is Newari(Nepal) Bhasa. It is considered as the most ancient pond in Bhaktapur which is known to have many myths associated to it. This 275m×92m pond was built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in the early fifteenth century and had undergone many repairs and reconstructions. Nowadays, the pond is of both religious and archeological importance. From this spot a wide range of snowy peaks are visible on clear days.

Suryabinayak Temple

Ganesh of Suryabinayak

About 2 km south of Bhaktapur lies the famous temple of Suryabinayak, which is dedicated to lord Ganesh. The temple is in Shikhara style and is located on a hillock. In the valley are located four popular Ganesh and Suryabinayak is one of them. The Suryabinayak hill looks immensely beautiful and luring during the months of March-April when it is fully covered by Rhododendrons, the national flower of Nepal.

Nagarkot

Nagarkot is a village and Village Development Committee located 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nepal in Bhaktapur District in the Bagmati Zone. At the time of the 1991 Nepal census it had a population of 3504 and had 655 houses in it. At an elevation of 2,195 meters, it is considered one of the most scenic spots in Bhaktapur District. It is renowned for its sunrise view of the Himalaya including Mount Everest as well as other snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal. Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley.

View from Nagarkot

Nagarkot is an international tourist destination with spectacular views of the whole Langtang range, sunrise on the mountains and sunset views. We can see the panoramic views of the captivating landscapes and hills with the Kathmandu valley. You can breathe the cool mountain breeze in the resort town of Nagarkot. There are resorts from top-end quality to decent lodges to accommodate you and serves different cuisines.

Pottery Square

Pottery Square

Bhaktapur’s two Pottery Squares are world renowned and so are the many potters that can be seen working there on their traditional wooden wheels. The first Pottery Square is located at Talako, some 500m to the southwest of Taumadhi Square, on the way to the Trolley Bus Terminal. Here visitors will find potters giving shape and size to lumps of black clay, and earthenware they make ranges from such household goods as pots and jars to cheap souvenir items as animals and birds. As pottery in Bhaktapur is a family job, visitors may chance upon the entire family doing their parts of work. Right within the complex is a two-floored temple that houses an ornate image of Ganesh, erected in a very traditional way. The pagoda dates back to the 14th century.

Dattatraya Square

The Dattatraya Temple is the main attraction of the Square. Constructed by King Yaksha Malla, the giant three-storied temple is believed to have been built with the stem of a single tree. Having defied series of calamities, it still bears testimony to the incredible achievement made in those regal days of the Nepalese history.

The Wane Layaku complex, which lies to the south-western corner of the Dattatreya temple, is noted for Bhaktapur’s second Taleju shrine. Enclosed with old houses, the courtyard sees throngs of people, especially during the Mohani (Dashain) festival, when a rare Ghau-batacha (Water Clock) is put on public display. During the Malla Era, the water-clock was used by the then rulers and astrologers for fixing "propitious moments" for commencing and concluding various state and social ceremonies.

The Temple of Taleju Bhawani

The temples dedicated to the goddess Taleju Bhawani are presnt in all three towns of Kathmandu valley, i.e Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The royal temple of goddess Taleju in Bhaktapur however is the oldest among the three. Taleju Bhawani was the clan goddess of Malla Kings. The temple is one-storeyed. The artworks found in the temple are regarded among best in Nepal. The temple square consists of two shrines for two female deities, Taleju Bhawani and Kumari. The temple of Taleju has always been one of Bhaktapur’s most sacred spots, traditionally closed to all but the reigning kings. The Taleju temple stands in the Mulchok Court. At present, only Hindus are allowed to go inside the temple and the goddess cannot be photographed.

Taumadhi Square || Nyatapola

The Nyatapola Temple presides over the Taumadhi Square. Dating back to 1702 AD, the colossal five-storied edifice is the country’s tallest pagoda temple. The struts, doors, windows and tympanums—each embellished with attractively carved divine figures—perfectly portray the creative tradition of Newar craftsmen. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Laxmi, the manifestation of female force and creativity. The latest major renovation of this monument was carried out in 1997 AD by Bhaktapur Municipality using the revenue it collected from tourists.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the popular and attractive place to visit in Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur's main square, Durbar Square, houses the 55-window Palace which was constructed by King Jitamitra Malla and was home to royalty until 1769. It is now a National Gallery. Close by is the Golden Gate which leads into Mulchok Court which is home to the Taleju Temple. This temple, like others in the main towns of the Kathmandu Valley, is dedicated to the goddess Taleju Bhawani and includes shrines of both the Taleju Bhawani and Kumari. Entrance to the temple is restricted to Hindus and the living goddess strictly cannot be photographed.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is surrounded by spectacular architecture and vividly showcases the skills of the Newari artists and craftsmen over several centuries. The royal palace was originally situated at Dattaraya square and was only later moved to the Durbar square location. The Durbar square in Bhaktapur was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1934 and hence appears very spacious than the other ones located at Kathmandu and Patan.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Monuments in Bhaktapur

Monumental masterpieces in Bhaktapur are innumerable, and each is more attractive than the other. Mostly terra-cotta structures supported by carved wooden columns, elaborately carved struts, windows and doors, gilded roofs and pinnacles, open spacious courts all around and, above all, the fascinating divine images presiding over the monument—many edifices have many things in common, yet their varied shape, size and designs make the one even more wondrous than the other. Furthermore, each of their components reflects the religious belief, social outlook and the economic status of the builders, and the monuments in all carry along a rich artistic tradition of the native Newars.

In Bhaktapur, visitors confront a smaller or larger monument almost at every ten or twenty steps. Perhaps stunned by the clusters of monuments, a visitor in the past had admired the Kathmandu Valley, saying that "every other building (in the Valley) is a temple and every other day a festival". The proportion, owing to continual external invasions and natural calamities, might have changed over centuries, yet the presence of variously shaped and sized monuments in Bhaktapur is still awe-inspiring.

Brief Introduction of Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur (Nepali: भक्तपुर Bhaktapur ), also Bhadgaon or Khwopa (Nepal Bhasa: ख्वप Khwopa) is an ancient Newar town in the east corner of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. It is located in Bhaktapur District in the Bagmati Zone. It is the third largest city in Kathmandu valley and was once the capital of Nepal during the great Malla Kingdom until the second half of the 15th century.

Bhaktapur is listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO for its rich culture, temples, and wood, metal and stone artwork. The term "Bhaktapur" (Sanskrit/Nepali: भक्तपुर) refers to "The City Of Devotees". This Bhaktapur City is also known as "Khwopa" (Nepal Bhasa: ख्वप) or "Bhadgaon" (Nepali:भादगाँउ) or "Ancient Newari Town" throughout the Kathmandu valley.

It is the home of traditional art and architecture, historical monuments and craft works, magnificent windows, pottery and weaving industries, excellent temples, beautiful ponds, rich local customs, culture, religion, festivals, musical mystic and so on. Bhaktapur is still an untouched as well as preserved ancient city, which in fact, is itself a world to explore for tourist.