55-Window Palace: The Jewel of Bhaktapur Durbar Square

In the heart of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, surrounded by a wealth of temples, shrines, and artistic wonders, one monument stands out not for its height or grandeur, but for its breathtaking craftsmanship and historic significance — the 55-Window Palace (Pachpanna Jhyale Durbar).

This elegant royal residence is not only a symbol of Bhaktapur’s golden age but also a masterpiece of Newar architecture, an art form that reached its zenith in this ancient city.

A Palace Born in the Golden Age

The 55-Window Palace was commissioned in the 17th century by King Yaksha Malla, one of Bhaktapur’s most powerful and visionary rulers.

Later, during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in the early 18th century, the palace was expanded and refined to the form we see today.

This period was considered the golden age of Bhaktapur, when art, architecture, and culture flourished under the patronage of the Malla kings.

The palace served as the royal residence and administrative center, embodying the glory and sophistication of the Malla dynasty.

Why the Name "55-Window Palace"?

The palace gets its name from its famed façade, which features 55 intricately carved wooden windows set into a three-story brick façade.

Each window is a unique work of art, blending practical design with astonishingly detailed woodwork.

Highlights of the Windows:

Delicate Lattice Work: The windows are adorned with fine wooden lattices (called "Tikijhya" in Newar language), allowing air and light to pass while maintaining privacy.

Mythological Themes: Some windows depict scenes from Hindu mythology, showcasing divine beings, dancers, and protective spirits.

Geometric Patterns: Other windows display elaborate floral and geometric patterns, demonstrating the deep skill of Bhaktapur’s woodcarvers.

Walking along the front of the palace, visitors often find themselves pausing again and again to marvel at the detail — no two windows are exactly the same.

Architectural Beauty and Symbolism

The 55-Window Palace is a textbook example of traditional Newar architecture, characterized by:

Red Brick Walls: Warm, hand-molded bricks that give the structure a glowing quality in sunlight.

Carved Wood Details: Lintels, struts, and windows teeming with fine craftsmanship.

Sloping Tiled Roofs: Typical of Malla-period structures, designed for both aesthetic beauty and monsoon protection.

Golden Gate: The palace is accessed through the Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka) — one of the most beautifully crafted entrances in the world, decorated with gilded images of Hindu deities and mythical creatures.

Every inch of the palace speaks of a time when architecture was considered a sacred craft, blending functionality with spiritual expression.

The Royal Courtyards

Behind the majestic façade, the palace complex once featured a series of beautiful internal courtyards (chowks), where daily royal life unfolded — from grand ceremonies to quieter moments of meditation.

Today, visitors can glimpse some of these spaces, although full public access is restricted as the palace is part of the National Art Museum complex. Still, peeking through the corridors gives a sense of the layered, intimate world that once existed behind the carved walls.

Earthquake Damage and Restoration Efforts

The 55-Window Palace, like much of Bhaktapur, suffered damage during Nepal’s frequent earthquakes, especially in 1934 and again in 2015.

However, extensive restoration efforts have been carried out, led by local artisans skilled in traditional building techniques, supported by UNESCO and international cultural organizations.

Today, the palace stands proudly restored, a testament to Bhaktapur’s resilience and deep respect for its heritage.

Experience the Palace Today

Visiting the 55-Window Palace is like stepping into a different era — a time when kings lived amidst hand-carved splendor and every brick told a story.

Practical Tips for Visitors:

Photography: The best time for photographs is early morning or late afternoon, when the light softens and the details of the carvings come alive.

Guided Tours: Hiring a local guide will help you appreciate the palace’s historical context and uncover stories behind the intricate carvings.

Explore Nearby: After admiring the palace, visit the Golden Gate, the National Art Museum, and nearby temples like Vatsala Durga Temple and Nyatapola to complete your exploration.

The 55-Window Palace is more than just an architectural marvel — it is a symbol of Bhaktapur’s soul.

In its windows, walls, and courtyards, you can feel the echoes of a glorious past, the dreams of kings and artisans, and the enduring spirit of a city that continues to cherish beauty, history, and devotion.

To walk along its façade, to trace your hand along the ancient wood, is to connect with centuries of stories — and to become, even briefly, a part of Bhaktapur’s living history.

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