The essence of Bhaktapur (Photo Feature)

In this photo feature, I have included diverse images showcasing the beauty of Bhaktapur’s lifestyle, traditions, heritage, and culture. These photos were also a part of an exhibition organized by ImagePasal in collaboration with the Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee.

This marks my third-ever exhibition and my second in Bhaktapur. I had my first solo photo exhibition during high school at the Khwopa College Fete in 2013. Returning after a decade to showcase my photography makes me very happy, especially sharing the space with talented photographers— Amit Machamasi, Rojan Shrestha, Chandra Chakradhar, and Nandu Shrestha.

Bhaktapur continues to feel authentic on so many levels. Women dressed in traditional Hakupatasi and men in Daura Suruwal are sights unique to Bhaktapur, rarely seen elsewhere in the Kathmandu Valley. The heritage here is another standout—houses and their façades are carefully preserved and even reconstructed to maintain the old-times charm.

What’s even more remarkable is how traditions and culture thrive here. From elderly men to young children, everyone participates in festivals and rituals with great enthusiasm and excitement. These elements embody why Bhaktapur retains its spirit so naturally—a quality that should ideally be mirrored in all historic cities across the valley. Patan, for instance, still holds pockets of this kind of authenticity, making it remarkable.