Folklore and Everyday Life in Ancient Patan

Our guide will meet you at the entrance gate of the old town of Patan and take you on a fascinating walk through the narrow streets and wide courtyard, nestled next to towering palaces and glittering shrines. Through out your walk, we will share stories, folklores, and myths that make this ancient city come alive.

In our first series of walks through traditional courtyard, we discuss how traditional urban settlements in Patan embody spiritual practices and indigenous knowledge. These courtyards open to Pimbahal, a Newar Buddhist monastery dating back to 15th century, where we discuss faith practices and tangible art of Buddhist philosophies. Then, we exit through narrow streets to the beautiful Pimbahal Pond.

From Pimbahal, we take a cosy path where we can observe traditional architecture such as falchaa (resting areas), ancestral shrines, and beautiful vernacular houses. We enter another courtyard Nyakhachowk, which houses one of the most important Theravada monastries of Kathmandu valley. Next to the monastery, in an interesting juxtaposition, is an animist shrine belong to Nyasa Dyo - an indigenous deity who is the patron of the arts - dance, music, painting, etc. And then, we walk further to Aki Bhahal - a courtyard that is truly a testament to how traditional buildings have given way to modern architecture in the city. We will explore these changes in the built enviornment and walk further to Pradhan Chowk - the most elegant and majestic traditional courtyard of old Patan built by traders who connected Kathmandu valley with Tibet.

We then explore Nag Bahal, one of largest courtyards in old Patan, where we can discuss how globalization in ancient times have shaped traditional art. The Greek influence and Hellenistic impressions in Buddhist/Hindu iconography is remarkable. If you wish, we could stop at the majestic Golden Temple, which is ticketed and costs 100 NPR for entrance.

We end our walking tour in this beautiful square with several temples, shrines, and tea shops. If you wish, we can guide you towards Patan Durbar Square, the main temple complex, where you can independently explore the stunning musuem and take in the art/history. Or, you can head back with us to the end point, which is the same as the meeting point: Patan Dhoka.

This is one of the most well respected and embellished Buddhist monastery of the Patan area with more than 4000+ ordained monks who are part of the monastic order. It is a great place to stop and marvel at the intricate woodwork and metal carving details throughout the complex. Please note that there is a separate entrance fee of NPR 100 to this complex, that is not included as part of our tour cost.