55 Window Palace

Description

If you ever wander through the winding brick lanes of Bhaktapur, the 55 Window Palace pops out not just as some old relic but as a living, breathing slice of Nepalese history. This is not your average palace. Built during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in the 18th century, this red-brick marvel is a true testament to the creativity, persistence, and artistic pride of the Newari people. At first glance, you notice it’s undeniably ancient: the rich red bricks, the rows of meticulously carved wooden windows, and a dash of mystery. But hang on—look closer and start counting. Yes, there really are fifty-five windows, each one lovingly carved out of fragrant sandalwood, each window framing centuries of stories. I remember my very first time seeing it; I nearly lost count after thirty. The craftsmanship is so absorbing you’ll probably pause at every second window just to marvel.

The 55 Window Palace anchors Bhaktapur Durbar Square, weaving the past and present together with the hustle of market vendors, families, and, of course, enthusiastic travelers with camera in hand. It’s regarded as the heart of royal Bhaktapur—no kingly nostalgia required to feel this place’s importance. It’s more than an architectural showpiece; it’s where history and everyday life cross paths.

People who visit often gush about the spellbinding woodwork—tiny gods, mythical beasts, geometric patterns—all painstakingly etched by skilled artisans centuries ago. And while a few may feel the palace exterior outshines its now-closed-off interior, most will agree that it’s the windows themselves (and the stories behind them) that steal the show. Plus, thanks to a steady restoration process (remember that earthquake a decade ago?), the heritage site keeps its dignity, standing tall and defiant in the midst of a lively city square.

Whether you are a keen photographer, a curious history buff, or simply want to sit on the palace steps and soak it all in, the 55 Window Palace gives you a heady taste of Nepal’s royal heyday. It’s kid-friendly too—something I found out when a local family handed a giggling toddler to me for a quick photo op. That said, don’t expect a hushed museum vibe; the place hums along with daily life, from school children’s laughter to the distant clang of temple bells.

So—come for the architecture, stay for the palpable sense of time travel, and maybe, just maybe, leave with a couple of good stories of your own.

Key Features

• Fifty-five intricately carved sandalwood windows lining the palace façade—a true masterpiece of Newari wood art and craftsmanship.
• Constructed under King Bhupatindra Malla in the 18th century, blending historical significance with legendary local tales.
• Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site ensemble of Bhaktapur Durbar Square—securing its spot as one of the top historical landmarks in Nepal.
• Stunning red-brick architecture paired with black lacquered wood, golden embellishments, and traditional tile roofing.
• The famous Golden Gate (Swarnadwar), an ornate gilt entrance nearby, considered one of the most beautiful in South Asia and providing direct palace access (when open to the public).
• Elaborate wood carvings depicting deities, protectors, mythological scenes, and geometric patterns—every window tells a story.
• Multiple courtyards and interconnected buildings, once used for royal ceremonies, administrative business, and private quarters for the royal family.
• Photography paradise—whether you want classic symmetrical shots, play with light and shadow, or capture the hustle of Nepalese city life in the background.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, making the palace more inclusive than many other historical sites in the Kathmandu Valley.
• Ideal for children and families thanks to its safe pedestrian setting, wide steps, and open public squares around the palace.
• Central location within Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which teems with restaurants, souvenir shops, pottery vendors, and other iconic temples (Nyatapola Temple, Taleju Temple, to name a few).
• A living canvas for local festivals—expect to see vibrant processions and rituals, especially during Gai Jatra and Bisket Jatra.
• Excellent vantage point for observing Newari urban life, market scenes, and daily rhythms of the city.

Best Time to Visit

Travelling is all about timing. I mean, who hasn’t showed up somewhere in shorts only to be greeted by pouring monsoon rain? When thinking about the 55 Window Palace, late September through December wins hands down—clear blue skies and crisp air set the intricate woodwork aglow, and the city hums with post-monsoon activity. March through May isn’t far behind: you’ll find the days are sunny, the Himalayan foothills sport their greenery, and festival energy fills the streets.

The heart of summer (June to August) brings the monsoon—don’t get me wrong, the rain can be enchanting and the city wears a dramatic look, but you’ll need an umbrella and decent shoes for the slippery bricks. The plus side? Fewer crowds and cool, lush vibes. I once visited in July and found myself practically alone on the palace steps—eerie, serene, and unforgettable.

Avoid mid-winter if you can’t handle chilly mornings; though the clear views and thinner crowds might tempt you if you prefer a slower pace. And let’s not forget—visit during the grand Bisket Jatra (April, usually)—the palace and the whole square light up with Nepalese zeal, drums, and wild processions. You’ll never see Bhaktapur more alive. Just be ready to jostle with thousands of locals—it’s so worth it.

How to Get There

Thankfully, getting to the 55 Window Palace in Bhaktapur is easier than you might expect. You don’t need to own a yak or have a sherpa—though a little patience in Kathmandu Valley traffic will help. The palace sits smack in the middle of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, about 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu City center. If you’re coming from Kathmandu, hop on a public bus or a microbus heading towards Bhaktapur—it’s cheap, lively, and you might end up sharing a seat with a basket of vegetables. If you need comfort and speed, just flag down a taxi or book a ride-hailing service for a direct trip; most drivers will know Bhaktapur Durbar Square in a heartbeat.

For travelers already exploring Patan or Lalitpur, expect a journey of around 45 minutes (traffic gods permitting). The main entrance to the historic city is a short walk from the bus park and there’s wheelchair-accessible parking close by if you’re driving yourself—a rare blessing in the tangle of old valley streets. From the gate, a brief stroll through bustling lanes filled with pottery stalls and handicraft vendors will bring you right into the square and face to face with the palace.

Once there, no need for maps—the palace dominates the northern edge of the square and is hard to miss. If you’re ever lost or overwhelmed by the maze of temples and busy vendors, just ask a local. Even with my five words of Nepali, I’ve always found people eager to point the way—with a smile and sometimes a story thrown in for free.

Tips for Visiting

• Arrive early in the morning or in late afternoon—golden hour, literally, for photography and when the palace’s carved windows cast the most striking shadows. Plus, there’s fewer tourists and you can savor the serenity.
• Pack cash for entrance tickets to Bhaktapur Durbar Square—foreign nationals pay more, but your fee helps keep this heritage site alive and well-restored.
• Don’t expect to wander inside every palace room—the interiors are not regularly open to the public, partly for preservation and a bit thanks to earthquake recovery. Instead, focus on the façade, explore the Golden Gate, and soak up the detailed wood artistry from outside.
• Hire a local guide if you’re a history buff—a good story makes those fifty-five windows come to life, and you’ll catch tales even guidebooks miss. Plus, you’re supporting the local economy.
• Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered)—both for cultural tradition and for sun protection. Trust me, the Nepalese sun can sneak up on you even in winter.
• Wheelchair users and families with strollers will find accessible paths and parking, though some brick-paved areas can be bumpy. Ask guards or locals for the smoothest routes—it varies season to season due to maintenance.
• Take time to wander beyond the palace—Bhaktapur Durbar Square is full of side alleys hiding pottery workshops, art museums, street snacks, and looming temple towers. Call it window shopping, but for history!
• Catch a festival if you can—Bisket Jatra (Nepali New Year) and Gai Jatra are spectacles of color, tradition, and sheer joyful chaos. The palace stands as a silent onlooker to all of it, adding drama to your photos and memories.
• Try local Newari food—don’t leave without sampling king curd (juju dhau), spicy savory samay baji, or freshly fried sel roti from a street vendor. There’s nothing quite like eating yogurt at the feet of a royal palace.
• Mind your steps—old bricks, unexpected steps, and distracted selfie-takers abound. Keep your wits about you, and don’t be shy to ask a fellow traveler for help if you need it. I’ve handed my phone to total strangers for group shots—Nepalese hospitality is the real deal.
• Photography is allowed, but be considerate of rituals and locals. I once got shooed away from a festival shot—lesson learned, always ask before snapping portraits.
• Respect restoration areas—these decades-old structures need love and preservation. If part of the building is roped off, it’s for a reason.

The 55 Window Palace isn’t just a site to check off your Nepal bucket list—it’s a deep dive into centuries of living history. Come curious, be respectful, expect to stop and stare a lot, and who knows—you might leave knowing more about the art of carving, the flavor of Nepali yogurt, and the resilience of heritage than you ever bargained for.