Basantapur in the old center of Kathmandu is the
name of both an ancient tower and a town square that accommodates the city's
foremost souvenir market, attracting both local and foreign visitors.
However, the souvenirs are specially made for the tourists and no genuine
antiques are being traded.
Basantapur
Basantapur
The tower, which is famed for its elaborate
carvings, is part of the adjacent royal Hanuman Dhoka
Palace and overlooks the square.