Mulchowk Patan: The Sacred Courtyard at the Heart of Patan Durbar Square
Mulchowk is the central and most important courtyard within the Royal Palace Complex of Patan (Mangal Bazar). Built during the Malla era, this courtyard was the ritual and spiritual center of the Patan royal court. It was dedicated to royal ceremonies, tantric rites, and sacred worship, especially of Taleju Bhawani, the tutelary goddess of the Malla kings.
With its exquisitely carved wooden struts, gilded doorways, and symmetrically designed layout, Mulchowk is a masterpiece of traditional Newa craftsmanship. The courtyard is flanked by shrines, including the Taleju Temple, and is often closed to the general public, adding to its air of reverence and exclusivity.
Originally established by Sirinivasa Malla in 1666 and later 1730s and 1850s Mulchowk (Main Courtyard) is the heart of Patan Durbar Square and the hub of its ritual activities. This magnificient quadrangle with its large open courtyard is as almost as twice as large as adjacent Sundari Chowk and slightly as large as Mulchowks of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.
Spiritual Core of the Palace: Mulchowk was the ceremonial nucleus of the Malla royal court, where state rituals, goddess worship, and royal initiations took place. It still retains an air of mysticism and spiritual power.
Taleju Temple: The temple at the center of Mulchowk is one of the three main Taleju shrines in the Kathmandu Valley. It opens only during Dashain, one of Nepal’s most significant festivals, drawing in devotees and heritage seekers alike.
Architecture Worth Seeing: The courtyard’s traditional layout features intricately carved door frames, lattice windows, and golden pinnacles- a showcase of 17th-century Newa architectural brilliance.
Mulchowk is only 400 meters (about a 5-minute walk) from Nyadha House, right within Patan Durbar Square—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Staying at Nyadha House places you within walking distance of ancient courtyards like Mulchowk, allowing you to soak in centuries of spiritual and cultural depth without needing transportation.