The owner of Swastik Guest House, Bishwo, who we now consider a dear friend, bent over backwards to show us the beauty of his hometown.

From our bedroom window, we could see and hear people bringing their morning offerings, ringing bells and carrying out various rituals at the many temples that line the streets. From the roof top we had views across the whole city and could even see the himalayas on clear days. Early morning rituals, cobbled streets, secret pathways as well as a totally different language and cuisine from the rest of Nepal are just some of the things that make Bhaktapur such an exciting place to visit.During our time in Bhaktapur, we stayed at the wonderful Swastik Guest House. Among other things, Newar people are known for their contribution to the arts and this becomes apparent as soon as you set foot in the city.Beautiful wooden temples - many of which are still being rebuit after the 2015 earthquake - are not just available for tourists to poke about in, they are the backbone of daily life. Populated by Newar people, the earliest inhabitants of the Kathmandu valley and its surrounding areas, Bhaktapur is so full of ancient culture, a visit there feels like stepping back in time. We fell so in love with the place that after our Annapurna trek we returned to make a short film there.Set in the Kathmandu valley, Bhaktapur feels nothing like crazy hectic Kathamandu city. Last year we visited the beautiful city of Bhaktapur, twice.

Early morning bhajan