Královský palácový komplex v Patanu byl postaven v 17. století v rámci rozsáhlého stavebního programu krále Siddhinarasimhy Mally, v němž pokračoval jeho syn Šrívasa. Králové Malla vytvořili svůj palác rozšířením a vylepšením skupiny budov na starobylé křižovatce v centru Patanu. Komplex obsahuje tři nádvoří, která byla postavena v různých dobách a každé má svůj vlastní charakter: V roce 1647 byl postaven Sudari Chowk, v roce 1666 Mul Chowk a v roce 1734 Keshav Narayan Chowk. Nejstarší z těchto tří dvorů, Sundari Chowk, je známý pro své velkolepě vytesané kamenné lázně a dřevěné ornamenty zvířat a božstev. Jižní a severní křídlo bylo přistavěno v roce 1792, respektive 1820 a dokládá evropský vliv s pravidelnými okny, okenicemi, krbem a velkým přijímacím sálem v horním patře. Tři pagodové chrámy a mnohé svatyně patanského královského paláce jsou dodnes aktivní, včetně Degutale, hlavního tantrického kultovního místa. Navzdory svému trvalému využití byl patanský královský palác v roce 2003 zařazen na seznam světového dědictví UNESCO v ohrožení kvůli strukturálnímu rozpadu a hrozbě městské zástavby.
Credit: PatanMuseumhttp://www.patanmuseum.gov.np/
Credit: PatanMuseumhttp://www.patanmuseum.gov.np/
Credit: PatanMuseumhttp://www.patanmuseum.gov.np/
Credit: PatanMuseumhttp://www.patanmuseum.gov.np/
Credit: PatanMuseumhttp://www.patanmuseum.gov.np/
Credit: PatanMuseumhttp://www.patanmuseum.gov.np/
Bhandarkhal Garden is a tranquil historic garden located behind the royal palace in Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Nepal. Part of the former palace complex, the garden is known for its picturesque setting, traditional landscaping, and the impressive Bhandarkhal Water Tank, which once served as the primary water supply for the Malla kings' palace. Visitors can stroll through the peaceful grounds, admire the restored pavilion and historic water reservoir, and enjoy views of the surrounding palace architecture. The garden provides a quiet retreat from the bustling square while offering fascinating insights into the engineering, history, and royal heritage of Patan.
Mul Chowk is the largest and most important courtyard within the historic Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal. Once used by the Malla kings for royal ceremonies and religious events, this impressive courtyard is surrounded by beautifully crafted palace buildings showcasing traditional Newari architecture and intricate wood carvings. Visitors can admire its serene atmosphere, explore the historic royal palace complex, and view the sacred Taleju Temple, dedicated to the royal goddess Taleju Bhawani. Rich in history and cultural significance, Mul Chowk offers a fascinating insight into the artistic, spiritual, and royal heritage of medieval Nepal.
Sundari Chowk is a stunning 17th-century courtyard located within the Patan Royal Palace Complex in Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Nepal. Renowned for its exceptional Newari architecture and intricate stone and wood carvings, it is considered one of the finest artistic treasures of the former royal palace. The courtyard's main highlight is the beautifully carved Tusha Hiti (Royal Bath), an ornate sunken water structure decorated with deities, mythical figures, and religious symbolism. Visitors can admire the remarkable craftsmanship, explore the historic palace surroundings, and gain insight into the royal and cultural heritage of the Malla era while enjoying one of Patan's most elegant and well-preserved architectural gems.
Keshab Narayan Temple is a small but significant shrine located at the centre of Keshav Narayan Chowk within the historic Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Keshav Narayan form, the temple is surrounded by the beautifully restored royal palace courtyard that houses the renowned Patan Museum. Visitors can admire traditional Newari architecture, intricate woodcarvings, and the courtyard's peaceful atmosphere while learning about the rich religious and cultural heritage of the former Malla kingdom. The temple and its surroundings offer a fascinating glimpse into Nepal's blend of Hindu devotion, royal history, and artistic craftsmanship.
The Patan Museum is widely regarded as one of the finest museums in South Asia. Housed in a historic royal palace courtyard, the museum offers an in-depth look at the art, architecture, and Buddhist and Hindu heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Visitors can explore an outstanding collection of traditional religious artworks, sculptures, and cultural exhibits while admiring the palace's elegant courtyards, intricately carved architecture, and centuries-old craftsmanship. The museum provides a fascinating insight into Patan's rich artistic legacy, making it a must-visit destination for history, culture, and architecture enthusiasts.
