Golden Gate, Bhaktapur, Bagmati Nepal

Golden Gate is considered to be the most beautiful and rich specimen of its kind not only in Nepal but the entire world. Door of the great monument is bedecked with mysterious monsters and other mythical creatures. The door is of immense archaeological, historical and religious importance, and the architecture is indeed of great value.

The Golden Gate was built by Monarch Ranjit Malla. It is the entrance to the main courtyard of the palace of fifty-five windows, in Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Also recognised by many as Sun Dhoka, the Golden Gate is the pride of Nepal. A figure of the Goddess Kali and Garuda (mythical bird) is at the top of the door. It is also assisted by two heavenly nymphs.

The Golden Gate is ornamented with several figures such as Garuda and the goddess known as Kali. Two nymphs are also seen carved on the gate as well. In the words of the English historian and critic Percy Brown, the gate is one of the loveliest sites in the entire kingdom.

Another artwork that constantly enchants the visitors in the Square is the Big Bell. The bell was built by Ranajit Malla (bhaktapur’s last Malla king). It is to be said that in those days the Big Bell was used for paying tribute to Goddess Taleju, the lineage deity of Malla rulers, as also to call assemblies of the citizens where they gathered together and  discuss on given subjects concerning the state. Today, it is rung twice a day as a mark of tribute to the goddess. Right next to it is a smaller Barking Bell. One peculiar thing is that, all dogs around it start whining the moment it is rung by its caretaker.

Major Attractions
 

• The gate is praised for some of the most beautiful gilded copper-work in the Kathmandu Valley.
• On either side of the door frame a doorkeeper, a vase symbolising good fortune, and figures of deities like Bhagawati, Ganesh, Bhairava, Kumari and Kali.can be seen.
• Ten-armed Godesses Taleju attended by Shri and Lakshmi seated on a crocodile and a tortoise appear above the door.