About Basantapur Chowk


Located to your left, just past the tourist information office in Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Basantapur Chowk in Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Basantapur Chowk in Bhaktapur Durbar Square
This area was once part of the royal palace. Today, behind the gates, you'll find a secondary school.

The main attractions here, besides the two stone guardian lions, are two sculptures reputed to be the finest in all of Nepal.

It's worth getting up close to these sculptures as the craftsmanship is quite intricate. Opposite them, across the square, some reconstruction work is currently underway.

Did you know?

Between 1200 AD and 1482 was the golden era for the Malla kings when much of Bhaktapur's artistry reached its peak. However the tradition continued on well into the 18th century.

 

The Sculptures of Ugrachandi Devi and Bhairab at Basantapur Chowk


To the left is the goddess Ugrachandi Devi, and to the right is Bhairab, who features prominently in the Kathmandu Valley.

King Bhupatindra Malla commissioned the Ugrachandi sculpture in 1707. It is said that the king was so enamored with the sculpture that he ordered the artist's hand to be cut off to prevent it from being duplicated by another king.

However, the story doesn't end there. The sculptor continued his work and created the Bhairab sculpture. Tragically, after this, the king ordered his other hand to be removed as well! Interestingly, many sculptures in Nepal do not disclose the artist's name, as the kings often claimed credit for the works themselves.

This was due to intense rivalry among the valley's kings to possess the finest works of art in their cities. For a more detailed account, read the full story on the Ugrachandi Devi and Bhairab statues.


Entrance fee


There is no entrance fee comes under the general fee for Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Bhaktapur Art Museum is to the right of the statues. While to the left of Basantapur Chowk is the tourist office of Bhaktapur.


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