Traditional games and play serve not only as recreation for children and adults but also as valuable learning experiences. Sensory-based games, which engage children through vision, sound, touch, and other senses, foster creative and interactive environments, contributing to a comfortable and meaningful learning atmosphere. Additionally, traditional games help children connect to their cultural heritage, teaching them about the traditions and values of the past. Traditional games are simple and accessible, demonstrating that play and education are universal experiences that may be engaged in with few and easily accessible tools, transcending social, cultural, and economic barriers. However, with the advancement of technology and the digital world, there is a growing preference for indoor activities involving digital gadgets. This trend has led to children becoming more inclined to watch online videos and play online games, resulting in social isolation and reduced interaction with others.

In Nepal, traditional settlements were designed to conduct most activities in public spaces, promoting social well-being within the community. Bhaktapur is a prime example of such a settlement, with a rich culture of playing traditional games in communal courtyards (Chowk/Nani), temple complexes, rest houses (Pati/Falcha), platforms (Dabali), and under trees (Chautara). However, modernization and the availability of digital gaming platforms have led to the gradual disappearance of these traditional games. Today, they are mostly played during festivals, and many have already been lost due to a lack of proper documentation. Neglecting conventional games has resulted in losing a significant part of cultural history and identity. It is crucial to preserve and transmit these games to new generations. As a result, we not only preserve our traditions but also give our kids useful tools for physical, social, emotional and cognitive development and happiness.

This paper aims to document and advocate for the traditional games that once enlivened the public spaces of Bhaktapur. The main objective of this research is to rediscover traditional games and their great value and document how they were played in various urban and rural public open spaces to understand the connection between the games and the spaces where they are played. The qualitative research includes literature documentation of these games, as well as interviews and workshops with locals and children, which are then video documented.

Keywords: Traditional games, Sensory-based games, Public Spaces