HANUMAN DHOKA
Hanuman Dhoka (Hanuman Gate), with several complexes spread over an area of about five acres, is the social, religious and urban focal point of Kathmandu. The square is the complex of palaces, courtyards and temples that were built between the 12th and the 18th centuries by the ancient Malla Kings of Nepal.
Overview
Location Durbar Square, Kathmandu Significance Former Royal Palace of the Malla Kings Major Attractions Nasal Chowk and Basantpur Temple Distinctive Feature The place is home to dozens of monkeys Famous For Coronation of Nepalese Kings
Good to know
There is a 17th century stone inscription in the Hanuman Dhoka that is set on the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. It is believed that if anybody deciphers this entire inscription, the milk would flow from the spout, which lies just below the inscripted stone wall. Some people say that the inscription contains coded directions to a treasure King Pratap Malla has buried beneath Mohan Chowk of Durbar Square.
Outlook
Hanuman Dhoka means 'Gate of Hanuman', the monkey god of Ramayana fame. Today, dozens of monkeys call this square their home. Hanuman performed herculean tasks on behalf of the other gods. The Malla dynasty's kings used Hanuman's image on their battle flags, and in 1672 placed his statue outside the Royal Palace to ward off evil spirits and diseases. The Hanuman Dhoka, therefore, has great historical and religious importance.
Overview
Location Durbar Square, Kathmandu Significance Former Royal Palace of the Malla Kings Major Attractions Nasal Chowk and Basantpur Temple Distinctive Feature The place is home to dozens of monkeys Famous For Coronation of Nepalese Kings
Good to know
There is a 17th century stone inscription in the Hanuman Dhoka that is set on the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. It is believed that if anybody deciphers this entire inscription, the milk would flow from the spout, which lies just below the inscripted stone wall. Some people say that the inscription contains coded directions to a treasure King Pratap Malla has buried beneath Mohan Chowk of Durbar Square.
Outlook
Hanuman Dhoka means 'Gate of Hanuman', the monkey god of Ramayana fame. Today, dozens of monkeys call this square their home. Hanuman performed herculean tasks on behalf of the other gods. The Malla dynasty's kings used Hanuman's image on their battle flags, and in 1672 placed his statue outside the Royal Palace to ward off evil spirits and diseases. The Hanuman Dhoka, therefore, has great historical and religious importance.