The Woodcarving Museum of Bhaktapur, located in Dattatraya Square (Tachupal Tole), is one of the city’s most important museums for understanding the extraordinary woodworking traditions of the Newar community. The museum is housed in the historic Pujari Math, a traditional priestly residence whose own doors, windows, pillars and architectural details are part of the collection. The Nepal Tourism Board describes it as one of the oldest mathas (priestly residences) in the Kathmandu Valley.
A Living Showcase of Newar Woodcraft
The museum’s greatest attraction is its collection of intricately carved wooden sculptures, windows, pillars, struts, doors and religious objects. Among the notable works are representations of Bhairava, Vishnu, Buddha, Tara, Ganesha, Shiva and other Hindu and Buddhist figures. The museum also contains historic paintings and decorative architectural elements.
The building itself is perhaps the museum’s most impressive exhibit. Its courtyards are decorated with elaborate carved windows and pillars, demonstrating how woodcarving was incorporated into traditional Newar architecture rather than being treated simply as independent artwork.
The Famous Peacock Window (Mhaykhā Jhyā (म्हयखाझ्याः))
Just outside the museum, on the eastern side of the building, visitors can see the celebrated Peacock Window. This finely carved wooden window is regarded as one of Nepal’s finest examples of traditional woodcarving and is often associated with Bhaktapur’s reputation as a center of exceptional Newar craftsmanship.
The surrounding Dattatraya Square is itself described by Bhaktapur Municipality as an open museum of woodcarving, with historic temples, mathas, carved windows and other architectural masterpieces.
What to See
Visitors can explore:
- Intricately carved wooden sculptures
- Traditional Newar windows and doors
- Carved architectural struts and pillars
- Religious figures including Bhairava, Vishnu, Buddha, Tara and Ganesha
- Historic wall and ceiling paintings
- Traditional wooden objects and decorative pieces
- The famous Peacock Window nearby
- The historic architecture of Pujari Math itself
Location
Woodcarving Museum
Dattatraya Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal
It is situated beside the Dattatraya Temple and opposite the Brass and Bronze Museum. The Nepal Tourism Board places it approximately a 10-minute walk from Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Why Visit?
The Woodcarving Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in Newari culture, traditional architecture, Nepalese art and Bhaktapur’s medieval heritage. Rather than simply displaying old objects, the museum allows visitors to see how woodcarving became an integral part of everyday buildings, religious spaces and artistic traditions in the Kathmandu Valley.
For Bhaktapur.info:
The Woodcarving Museum is a hidden treasure of Bhaktapur where centuries-old Newar craftsmanship comes alive through intricately carved windows, sculptures, pillars and architectural masterpieces.
