BudhanilKantha Temple

Budhanilkantha Temple, also known as the Narayanthan Temple, is situated in Kathmandu. Though the temple is named Budhanilkantha, its name does not come from the Buddha; Budhanilkantha stands instead for “Old Blue Throat”. The statue symbolizes Lord Vishnu, who is regarded as one of the 'Trimurtis', along with Brahma and Shiva. The largest of Vishnu’s stone statues, Budhanikantha lies at the foothills of the Shivapuri hills, 8 km north of the Kathmandu city center. The large granite figure of Lord Vishnu, reclining on a bed of serpents known as ‘Nagas’, seems to float in a pond. This shrine dates back to the 5th century. The fundamental sculpture is a dark stone structure cut from a solitary square of dark basalt. The sculpture stands 5 meters tall (around 16.4 feet) and is situated in a recessed pool of water, which is 13 meters (42.65 feet) long. It portrays the god leaning back on the curls of the grandiose snake Shesha. He holds the Sudarshana Chakra, Club, a Conch Shell, and a diamond in his four hands. He is very much embellished with a crown engraved with different Kirtimukha pictures which can frequently be seen being covered by a silver crown. This sanctuary is viewed as a consecrated spot for Hindus however similarly all around worshiped by Buddhists which is a fantastic case of strict amicability in Nepal. The Budhanilkantha Temple has become the site where Haribondhini Ekadashi Mela takes place on the 11th day of the Hindu month of Kartika (October–November). Attended by thousands of pilgrims, it is the temple's principal festival in celebration of the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his long sleep.

Extra Info

Timings : 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Morning pooja rituals: 7:00 AM

Entry Fee : No entry fee