The Royal Palace of Patan, also known as the Patan Durbar or Patan Durbar Palace, is a historical and architectural gem located in the heart of Patan (Lalitpur), Nepal. It is part of the larger Patan Durbar Square complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Royal Palace served as the residence of the Malla kings who ruled the Patan Kingdom from the medieval period until the unification of Nepal in the 18th century. The palace showcases a stunning blend of traditional Newar architecture and fine craftsmanship and houses important heritage structures like the Patan Museum, beautiful courtyards, and religious shrines. It is a must-visit site for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural travelers.
How to Reach Royal Palace Patan, Patan
The Royal Palace is centrally located in Patan Durbar Square, easily accessible from Kathmandu and other parts of the Kathmandu Valley:
- By Taxi: A taxi from central Kathmandu (Thamel, for example) to Patan Durbar Square takes around 20–30 minutes and costs approximately NPR 500–700 depending on traffic.
- By Public Transport: Local buses and microbuses run frequently between Kathmandu and Lagankhel or Pulchowk. From these stops, it's a short walk to the Royal Palace area.
- Walking: If you are staying in or near Patan, you can walk to the palace through the old city streets, enjoying traditional Newar architecture along the way.
- By Bicycle: The palace is easily accessible by bicycle from various parts of the valley and is a great way to explore the heritage-rich area at your own pace.
Weather at Royal Palace Patan, Patan
The weather at the Royal Palace is typical of the Kathmandu Valley, with a temperate climate and four distinct seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures between 16°C and 28°C. Trees and flowers bloom, creating a beautiful setting for sightseeing.
- Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Warm and humid with frequent rain. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. It’s wise to carry an umbrella or raincoat.
- Autumn (September to November): Ideal for visiting, with clear skies, fresh air, and temperatures between 15°C and 26°C. This is also a festive season in Nepal.
- Winter (December to February): Dry and cool weather. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, but mornings and evenings can be quite cold.
Timing of Royal Palace Patan, Patan
The Royal Palace complex, including the Patan Museum and palace courtyards, is open to visitors every day:
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed On: Major public holidays such as Dashain or Tihar
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early afternoon for comfortable weather and ideal lighting for photography.
Why Famous for Royal Palace Patan, Patan?
The Royal Palace is renowned for its artistic beauty, historical significance, and spiritual richness:
- Historical Center of Power: The palace was once the administrative and residential hub of the Malla kings who ruled Patan.
- Architectural Excellence: It is a masterpiece of Newar architecture, showcasing woodwork, lattice windows, traditional brickwork, and ornate courtyards.
- Patan Museum: Located inside the palace, this museum is one of the best in South Asia and features religious art, sculptures, and historical artifacts.
- Cultural Heritage Site: As part of Patan Durbar Square, the palace is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflects centuries of Newar culture and tradition.
Entry and Visit Details about Royal Palace Patan, Patan
The Royal Palace is open to both domestic and international visitors. Entry fees help with conservation and management of the site:
- Entry Fee:
- Foreigners: NPR 1,000
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 250
- Nepali Citizens: Nominal or free access (with ID)
- Guided Tours: Available at the museum entrance or through travel agencies. A guide is highly recommended to understand the cultural and historical details.
- Photography: Allowed in most areas. Flash photography may be restricted in certain museum galleries.
History and Architecture of Royal Palace Patan, Patan
The Royal Palace of Patan dates back to the medieval period, with most structures developed and expanded during the Malla dynasty between the 14th and 18th centuries. The Malla kings were known for their patronage of the arts, religion, and architecture, and this is evident in the palace complex.
The palace features several beautifully designed courtyards, temples, and the world-famous Patan Museum. Key architectural highlights include:
- Mul Chowk: The main and oldest courtyard, dedicated to the goddess Taleju. It is surrounded by intricately carved wooden balconies and shrines.
- Sundari Chowk: Known for the exquisite Tusha Hiti, a royal sunken bath decorated with carvings of gods and animals.
- Mani Keshab Narayan Chowk: Now home to the Patan Museum, this part of the palace showcases religious art and historical displays.
The palace layout and architecture reflect the harmony between Hindu and Buddhist artistic influences, which is a hallmark of Newar culture in the Kathmandu Valley.
Things to Do at Royal Palace Patan, Patan
There are numerous enriching activities for visitors at the Royal Palace:
- Visit Patan Museum: Explore one of Nepal’s best museums that holds ancient sculptures, ritual objects, and information about Buddhism and Hinduism.
- Explore the Courtyards: Take a walk through Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk, and others to appreciate their architectural beauty and spiritual atmosphere.
- Photography: Capture stunning pictures of palace carvings, wooden windows, statues, and cultural scenes.
- Attend Events: Occasionally, the palace hosts exhibitions, cultural performances, or educational programs that visitors can enjoy.
- Relax and Reflect: The serene courtyards offer quiet spaces for reflection, away from the busy streets outside.
Facts and Tips about Royal Palace Patan, Patan
- Fact 1: The Patan Royal Palace is one of three main palace complexes in the Kathmandu Valley, alongside those in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.
- Fact 2: The palace was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake, but extensive restoration has brought it back to its former glory.
- Tip 1: Allocate at least 2–3 hours for your visit to properly explore the museum, courtyards, and nearby attractions.
- Tip 2: Hire a local guide to fully appreciate the hidden meanings and history behind the sculptures and shrines.
- Tip 3: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on stone-paved paths and stairs.
- Tip 4: Dress modestly and respectfully, especially if visiting temples inside the palace grounds.
The Royal Palace of Patan is more than a historical structure—it is a testament to Nepal’s artistic and spiritual heritage. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, religion, or photography, the palace offers a rich and memorable experience in one of the most culturally vibrant parts of the Kathmandu Valley.
