Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur, a showcase of traditional Nepali Newari art and architecture and UNESCO world heritage site, is one of those rare places in the world that has escaped the scars of hurried 20th-century development.

Lost in the decaying side streets, visitors discover the arts and rituals of past generations have been kept very much alive: ancient stone statues are still actively worshipped, artisans carve six months to produce a single wooden window, and potters shape and form in an open square. Even the delicious local king yogurt is served in hand-made clay bowls.