Traveling to Bhaktapur with your family can be a memorable adventure filled with history, culture, and unique experiences. This ancient city in Nepal offers a charming blend of medieval architecture, vibrant festivals, and a peaceful atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. However, exploring Bhaktapur with kids requires some thoughtful planning to ensure the trip is both safe and enjoyable. Here are some essential family travel tips that will help you make the most of your visit while keeping everyone happy and comfortable.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur boasts numerous attractions that are perfect for families, offering a mix of education, entertainment, and cultural immersion. Start your exploration at Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning temples, intricate wood carvings, and lively courtyards where children can roam freely while soaking up the history.
Kids will particularly enjoy the 55-Window Palace and the Lion’s Gate, marveling at the magnificent architecture and statues. Nearby, the Pottery Square is another great stop where families can watch artisans at work and even try their hand at pottery-making, a fun hands-on activity for children.
Don’t miss the iconic Nyatapola Temple, which is one of the tallest pagoda-style temples in Nepal. Its large stone guardian figures often fascinate children who enjoy spotting the various animals and mythical creatures guarding the temple.
Additionally, take a stroll to Taumadhi Square where traditional Newari culture is alive and vibrant—kids will love the open spaces to run around and the colorful markets selling handicrafts and snacks.
Tips for Traveling with Kids
Traveling with children in Bhaktapur means adapting to their needs while ensuring they remain engaged and comfortable. Here are some helpful tips:
- Pack Smart: Bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, snacks, water bottles, and a small first aid kit. Weather in Bhaktapur can vary, so layering clothes is advisable.
- Plan Short Excursions: Kids can tire easily. Plan shorter days with regular breaks to rest and hydrate. Early mornings are ideal for sightseeing before it gets hot and crowded.
- Engaging Storytelling: Make history and culture fun by telling stories or fun facts about the places you visit. For example, explaining why the temples have certain statues or what the festivals celebrate will spark their curiosity.
- Carry Entertainment: While waiting in lines or during downtime, having a small travel game, coloring book, or tablet can keep children amused.
- Respect Local Customs: Teach kids to remove shoes when entering sacred sites and to be polite to locals, helping them understand and appreciate cultural sensitivity.
Accommodation and Dining Suitable for Families
Bhaktapur offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, from cozy guesthouses to boutique hotels. When choosing a place to stay, look for those that provide amenities like interconnecting rooms, kids’ menus, or family-sized bedding.
Many guesthouses in Bhaktapur are welcoming to children and may even offer cultural workshops or guided tours tailored to families. Booking a stay near Durbar Square or Taumadhi Square keeps you close to key attractions, minimizing travel time with kids.
Dining in Bhaktapur is a treat, with numerous restaurants offering traditional Newari cuisine alongside more familiar options. Many eateries have casual atmospheres that suit families, and some provide child-friendly dishes like momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and mild curries. Be sure to check for clean drinking water and opt for bottled water to avoid any stomach issues. Carrying some familiar snacks is also a good idea for picky eaters.
Safety Advice
Ensuring the safety of your little ones while exploring Bhaktapur is paramount. The city is generally safe, but following some basic precautions will help your trip go smoothly:
- Watch Busy Areas: Popular sites can get crowded. Keep a close eye on children to prevent them from wandering off, especially in busy market areas.
- Stay Hydrated: Altitude and heat can cause dehydration. Carry water and encourage frequent sipping.
- Food Safety: Stick to clean, reputable restaurants and avoid street food unless it’s freshly prepared and looks hygienic.
- Sun Protection: Use hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from the sun, especially during midday outdoor activities.
- Emergency Contact: Keep a list of local emergency numbers, your accommodation contact, and any medical info handy. Also, travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Cultural Experiences for Children
Bhaktapur’s rich heritage provides plenty of opportunities for children to learn and enjoy themselves culturally. Participating in workshops, festivals, and local activities can make history and traditions come alive.
Many cultural centers and guesthouses offer pottery and mask-making workshops that are ideal for kids. These hands-on activities help children connect with Bhaktapur’s artisan traditions. If visiting during festival times such as Bisket Jatra, families can witness vibrant parades, traditional music, and dance performances that fascinate young visitors.
Engaging kids with a simple scavenger hunt—like spotting specific statues, animals, or architectural details—can keep them interested while teaching them about local culture. Visiting local markets to explore colorful produce and handmade items also helps expand their cultural horizons.
Transportation and Mobility Tips
Getting around Bhaktapur with family is relatively straightforward but requires a bit of planning, especially with kids and strollers. The old town’s narrow streets and cobblestones mean that walking is often the best way to explore, but comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone.
For longer distances, tuk-tuks and rickshaws are commonly available and provide a fun experience for children while saving energy for adults. Be sure to agree on a price beforehand and keep an eye on traffic, especially with younger children.
Private taxis can be hired for day trips or airport transfers, providing a safer and more convenient option for families with small children or lots of luggage. It’s advisable to avoid overcrowded public buses, particularly with young children or seniors.
If you plan to use strollers, opt for lightweight and foldable models as the uneven terrain can be challenging, and some areas might require carrying the stroller over steps.
Making Memories Together
With its timeless charm, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, Bhaktapur is a wonderful destination for family travel. By keeping these tips in mind—from choosing the right attractions and accommodations to prioritizing safety and cultural enrichment—you can ensure that your trip is enjoyable for both kids and adults. Taking the time to involve the whole family in exploring this enchanting city will create lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Nepal’s rich heritage.
