New bilingual maps help students explore the historic Patan Durbar Square, blending education with heritage conservation.

Despite Kathmandu Valley's rapid urbanization, Patan's historic core has remained largely unchanged for the past 400 years. Once the seat of the Malla kings, Patan Durbar Square is a testament to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries.

To help the next generation of Nepali students reconnect with this storied past, the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT) has introduced a series of bilingual interactive maps titled "Let’s Discover Patan Durbar Square." These maps are designed for school excursions, offering an engaging and educational way for students to learn about their history and geography.

The maps, distributed to schools for use during study trips, encourage students to engage with the site actively. They are prompted to sketch what they observe or imagine new creations. One activity challenges students to envision a new monument in the square that respects historical aesthetics and utilizes culturally significant materials.

Another task involves a scavenger hunt for specific elements in the carvings or pillars, prompting students to observe the intricate details closely. Additionally, students are asked to count the gilded gajur pinnacles on the Krishna Mandir and then draw them, enhancing their appreciation of the architecture.

Through these interactive activities, KVPT aims to make heritage conservation fun and educational, fostering a deeper connection between young Nepalis and their cultural heritage.