Yala: A Cultural, Historic City

Yala, commonly known as Patan, is a cultural and historical city. But what lays there is one of Nepal's most interesting and historically significant sites, Patan Durbar Square. Along with its  exquisite architecture and craftsmanship, this Durbar has a variety of histories. This Durbar Square also features several ponds and stone spouts that add to its beauty.

My Experience

The approach to Patan Durbar Square is lined with authentic Nepali residences, which are rich in history. As soon as I stepped into the square, I noticed one of Nepal's few working stone spouts.

I immediately walked to the museum, where I saw many statues of gods. Each statue had its own significance and was equally historical. There were also pieces of antique doors and monuments. Even though it is hundreds of thousands of years old, it still looks fantastic. After that, I saw the king's seat, which was incredibly breathtaking.

It was now time for Krishna Mandir. While climbing the temple, you can observe the pillars, which are beautifully carved with scenes from history. As I ascended the steps, I was greeted by an elderly woman who applied tika on my brow. I had a beautiful view of Patan from the top of Krishna Mandir. I stood there for a moment, taking in the splendour of Patan. I realise how fortunate I am to have been born in Nepal, a country rich in history and natural beauty.

I also observed Taleju Bell, popularly known as Big Bell. I photographed it multiple times since it was so massive. Then I went to 'The Golden Temple,' also known as Hiranya Varna Mahavira Temple. It did not disappoint and was really fantastic. I seriously doubt that such an architect can be produced in today's world.

Aside from temples, the Durbar Square contains three prominent chowks (courtyards). Mul Chowk is one of them, and it is beautifully decorated with gold paint. The other is Keshav Narayan Chowk, which can be seen from the museum's windows. The final one is Sundari Chowk, which has a gold spout (sundhara) just below the surface. The sculptures of many gods decorate the constructions' limits.

I also paid a visit to the Mahabouddha Temple. The monument is breathtaking and a must-see. After witnessing the Mahabouddha Temple, I noticed how wonderful Nepal's construction and architecture were.

Aside from the architecture, the food was also excellent. There, I ate egg bara, yomari, and chatamari. As well as a glass of water for refreshing.

Patan's Background

Patan was founded by the Kirat dynasty, then expanded and modernised by the Lichhavi dynasty, and then modified further by the Malla dynasty.

Patan is sometimes called Lalitpur. Lalitpur is derived from two words: Lalit and Pur. Pur simply means town, but Lalit is a person's name. What happened was that rain did not fall for a long time in the city of Lalitpur, resulting in drought. Rato Machindranath was now the city's only chance. The only difficulty was that he was in India. So a man named Lalit moved him to Nepal under difficult circumstances. Rato Machhindranath provided rain to Lalitpur once he arrived. As a result, the city was called Lalitpur in his honour. Patan is sometimes called Yala. The name is derived from a Kirati monarch named Yalambar, who established the city.

Every temple and edifice created there has its own unique traits and history. The Krishna temple was built from a single stone. It was constructed after King Siddhi Narsingh Malla observed Radha and Krishna in their palace. So King Siddhi Narsingh Malla instantly ordered the temple to be built in the precise location where he observed the two lovers. Some scenes carved in the wood pillar depict famous and significant parts of the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

The Rato Machhindranath temple is significant because it represents two religions, Buddhists and Hindus. While Buddhists regard him as an Avalokeshwor, Hindus regard him as a manifestation or form of Bholenath.

Buddha is honoured at the Mahabodhi Temple. It is also known as the Thousand Buddha Temple. Abhaya Raj, a priest, was present. When he proceeded to Bodhgaya, he found a wonderful Buddha temple called Mahaboddhi. He also desired to replicate the same temple in Patan. So, when he returned to Nepal, he began construction. Sundari chowk, Mul chowk, and Keshav Narayan chowk are all prominent chowks (courtyards).

Apart from the durbar square, the little pavements are extremely nutritious. Famous shops can be found on Patan's pavements. These shops are frequented by almost all foreigners. The old Nepali houses, narrow roads, and little doorways give us all chills.

Modern Indian School