Calm amidst chaos

Published On: June 1, 2018 08:49 AM NPT By: RENUKA KHATIWADA


Though the city’s architecture has been dedicated to the philosophy of the Buddhist dharma chakra, it is the Krishna temple that rests in the middle of Patan, making it a city where Hinduism and Buddhism come together to lend it a warm and positive vibe. A city rich in culture, religion, art and heritage, Patan has 55 major temples, 136 Buddhist monasteries, and almost every alley has craftsmen skilled in fine metal works and Thanka painting.

I have lost count of the number of times I have been to Patan Durbar Square. As someone who lives in Kathmandu, I find Patan fascinating because it is a lot less chaotic than the capital city and, at the same time, it’s a place that’s firmly holding on to its roots. From old architecture to lifestyle, there’s so much to observe and enjoy in Patan. While Kathmandu has become a lot modern in the recent years, sometimes even changing overnight, Patan, it seems, has been evolving without feeling the need to. And because the growth has been largely organic, the city has a very lived in and well cared for feel to it. 

My favorite thing to do while in Patan is sit by myself somewhere in the center of the Durbar Square, a cup of tea in hand (yes, even in sweltering hot summer days), and just watch the world go by. On any given day, there will be vendors selling everything from flowers and gooseberries to watches and earphones, a few elderly men just sitting about chatting and some even sleeping, and people, locals and tourists alike, shopping for glass bangles, junk jewelry, scarves and various other knickknacks. I find calm amidst the chaos and Patan always manages to soothe me. This glorious city has something for everyone, you just have to sit back and let it wash over you. 

renukakhatiwada18@gmail.com












Leave A Comment