History

Within Kathmandu Durbar Square, the surrounding palaces have long served as the administrative center of Nepal and its ruling classes. The palaces have a long documented history of power struggle, bloodshed, administrative deception and instability. Durbar Square has witnessed several events such as Coronation of Monarchs (most recently King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah at 2001 A.D), Unification of Nepal Kingdom by King Prithivi Narayan Shah, King Ratna Malla's Kantipur revolt to name a few.

This place also witnessed various dark events that took place within 2000 years history of the ancient country such as 1806 Bhandarkhal Massacre, Kot Massacre, 1846 Bhandarkhal Massacre, Alau Massacre to name a few. Kathmandu Durbar Square has been open to public after King Mahendra's decision to shift Kings office to Narayanhiti Palace in 1972 A.D. 

Kathmandu Durbar Square had long served as administrative center since Kantipur revolt in 1484 A.D. A series of ruling dynasties have ruled the palace throughout 15th century until 1972 A.D. During their reign, Malla dynasty, Shah Dynasty and Rana Dynasty have turned the Durbar Square Area into a center of historic artifacts and full of rich architectures. Oldest structures in this area date back to even 6th, 7th Century which gives you glimpses of a rich past of the 2800 year old country.

There are lot of places you shouldn't miss in Kathmandu Durbar Square including Kasthamandap Mandir, Basantapur Nautalle Durbar, Hanumandhoka Durbar, Taleju Temple, Kaal Bhairav to name a few. All these places have important history and countless lores and some truths behind them.

Places you should check out if you are in the area

Chatamari Chhen, Kasthamandap

The Durbar Square Area has been mostly inhabited by Newar people. This restaurant is located few meters ahead of the ancient Kasthamandap, which is documented to have been built at around 7th Century. This place serves authentic newar cuisine and the best part is it is fairly priced and is true to its newar heritage. This place is unique from other similar restaurants. You really feel like you are in the 19th 20th century in a good way.

Menu and food prices

The menu offered is true to their newari roots and very affordable without any compromise on quality. We ordered Special Chatamari, Samaya-Baji and Jhol Mo:Mo. All the items were flavorful and distinct from general menu of local eateries. Average price of an item should cost you about रु 150 per person ($ 1 to $ 2).

Janakpur Dahi Lassi Bhandar, Indrachowk

This lassi stall is located few meters from Juddha Statue, New Road towards Indrachowk. This is the oldest Lassi shop in Kathmandu, Indrachowk. This place has been serving Lassi for more than 40 years. Lassi is a sweet, non-alcoholic drink that is said to have originated in Punjab. If you are looking to beat the heat in summer days, there is no better option than Lassi which contains no artificial flavors.

This drink should cost you रु 55 to रु 110 (around 40, 50 Cents to 1 Dollar) which is cheaper than other drink options.

If you ever visit Nepal, do not forget to check these places out. I hope this short guide from a local living in Kathmandu helps you next time you come to visit Nepal.