About the 55 Window Palace
Located in the heart of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the 55 Window Palace, also known as the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows, was constructed by King Bhupatindra Malla.
The 55 Window Palace, a renowned cultural heritage site in Bhaktapur, was initiated but not completed until 1754, during the reign of Jaya Ranjit Malla, the last of the Bhaktapur Malla kings. Today, the 55 Window Palace continues to serve as Bhaktapur's Royal Palace during ceremonial occasions.
The interior of the 55 Window Palace has been closed for many decades, significantly damaged during the 1934 earthquake. Plans for renovation exist, yet progress is hampered by funding challenges. Access to several inner courtyards around the palace is available, including the Golden Gate, one of Nepal's most lavish and significant artifacts. Non-Hindus may proceed only to Taleju Chowk, but everyone can visit the ornate royal water tank, Naga Pokhari.
Visitors can approach the doorstep of the Taleju Temple within the palace grounds. However, entry into the Taleju Temple is reserved exclusively for Hindus. As of 2019, the 55 Window Palace still requires some repairs but remains an impressive historical site.
Did you know?
The Bhaktapur Kumari will sometimes attend ceremonies in the 55 Window palace but rarely seen.
The Golden Gate is the only entrance into or around the 55 Window Palace - though it's only to an outer courtyard and not technically inside the main palace.
Naga Pokhari was built in the 17th-century as a royal water tank. It's encircled by a stone cobra (naga). The water tank was allegedly used for a daily ritual bath by the goddess Taleju.
Must see highlights near the 55 Window Palace
While it might seem that there's not much to see around the closed door of the 55 Window Palace, its exterior is beautiful and certainly worth a look. This is especially true for the elaborate wooden window frames that surround it.
Does the palace really have 55 windows? At least 4 of the windows are more like window slats. However, these have always been recognized as windows by Newari standards, so technically, the answer is yes.
After the 1934 earthquake, much of the lower brick portions of the palace had to be rebuilt.
- The Golden Gate: A beautifully ornate and culturally important piece of artwork. It's also the door you enter though into the palace courtyard.
- Naga Pokhari: The royal water pool used by the goddess Taleju.
- National Art Museum: Housing important works of art from both Bhaktapur and Nepal.
Entrance fee for The 55 Window Palace
There is no separate fee to view The 55 Window Palace as it's included in the main Bhaktapur ticket price. Please note that entry inside the 55 Window Palace is not possible. However, my book Kathmandu Valley Heritage Walks offers exclusive heritage walks around Bhaktapur, revealing hidden gems not widely known. Enjoyed this page? You're going to love my book! It surpasses others and is the only one continuously updated. It offers comprehensive coverage of all attractions in Bhaktapur, featuring well-researched information, captivating photographs, and travel-tested walking tours. Experience an interactive & printable guidebook like no other. Full Nepal Guidebook Kathmandu Valley Heritage Walks Was this page helpful to you? If so please tell others!
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