Bhaktapur Night A night to remember in Bhaktapur

Stephanie Scott
Compliance Officer, 
American Express Travel, 
UK and Ireland

Imagine being transported a few centuries back in time, to a starlight night in one of the ancient ruling cities of Nepal. A medieval world unto itself, with herringbone paved streets, a multitude of alleys and magnificent squares filled with palaces, temples, and pagoda roofs. Imagine this taking place on one of the special nights of the Tihar/Dipawali, festival of lights, when the millions of stars above reflect the candles flickering in every nook of the city, and you truly have a night to remember. Bhaktapur Night, “A Cultural event to explore Bhaktapur”, arranged to promote evening tourism at this renewed cultural site was an outstanding success this November. Visitors and locals gathered, as dusk fell, to join the torch light procession through the winding streets, squares and alleyways. A traditional band beat the drums and cymbals, whilst a group of young boys lit torch flares to guide the procession. Two dancing lions pranced among the crowds entertaining the children with their frolics. Locals holding laughing babies and smiling elderly residents, probably reminiscing on a bygone era, lined the route of the walk, Candles and oiled lamps lit up all the curbs and entrances to the shops and houses, through the squares, there were scenes of local cultural and traditional crafts. Weaving, beating rice, pottery and wine making were all being demonstrated by ladies in traditional black and red costumes. The wine making was particularly popular as samples of the powerful local wine were being poured out, adding even more enjoyment to the festivities. Our hostess, doing an excellent job of explaining the ancient and modern processes, described each scene. The procession eventually arrived at Taumadhi Tole, one of the main squares, where a dance area and raised platform for dining overlooked Nyatapola temple, beautifully illuminated by lamps framing its pagoda shapes against the night sky. A program of live cultural music and fabulously costumed dancers really kept everyone entertained, some of us even joined in. The catering was excellent and the continued flow of various regional brews really kept the party spirit going well into the evening.

It certainly was a night to remember.

A big thank you to the Tourism Development Committee, the organizers, volunteers, crafts people, dancers and all the residents for making my Dipawali very special in Bhaktapur.