Budhanilkantha Temple
Bāgmatī
Budhanilkantha Temple, located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, is an open-air Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu. The temple is renowned for its enormous reclining statue of Vishnu, carved from a single black basalt block, measuring about 5 meters tall and set in a recessed pool of water 13 meters long. This statue, believed to be over 1400 years old, holds significant religious symbolism, representing Vishnu with his four hands holding the Sudarshana Chakra, a club, a conch shell, and a gem, and wearing a crown adorned with Kirtimukha images. The temple is also venerated by Buddhists, who see the statue as a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, reflecting the region's historical religious harmony. Local legend tells that the statue was lost underground for centuries until discovered by farmers. The temple's pond is believed to be connected to the sacred Gosaikunda lake, linking it to Lord Shiva despite the statue's Vishnu dedication. Budhanilkantha is a focal point for pilgrims during festivals such as Haribondhini Ekadashi, marking the awakening of Lord Vishnu. The temple also holds mysterious legends, including a royal curse that deterred Nepalese monarchs from visiting and the intriguing claim that the statue floats on water due to its low-density stone composition.
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Tip: The best time to visit Budhanilkantha Temple is during the Hindu festivals of Haribondhini Ekadashi, Harishayani, and Haribodhini, when thousands of pilgrims gather for special rituals and fairs. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets or arranging visits in advance during these peak times to avoid crowds. The temple is accessible year-round, but early mornings offer a more peaceful experience. While specific discounts are not detailed, pilgrims and groups often find organized tours beneficial. Respectful attire and behavior are recommended, as the site is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Interesting facts
- •The reclining Vishnu statue is the largest stone carving in Nepal, measuring about 5 meters tall and 13 meters long in its water pool.
- •Local legend states the statue was lost underground for centuries until discovered by farmers while plowing.
- •The temple's pond water is believed to be connected to the sacred Gosaikunda lake, linking it to Lord Shiva.
- •A legend claims Nepalese kings avoided visiting the temple due to a prophetic curse received by King Pratap Malla.
- •The statue is made from a low-density silica-based stone, leading to claims that it floats on the water in the pool.
History
Budhanilkantha Temple's main statue is believed to be over 1400 years old, carved from a single block of black basalt.
The temple's origins are intertwined with local legends of the statue being lost underground and rediscovered by farmers.
Historically, the temple has served as a symbol of religious harmony between Hindus and Buddhists in the Kathmandu Valley.
A notable historical legend involves King Pratap Malla (1641–1674), who reportedly received a prophecy that visiting the temple would lead to premature death, causing subsequent Nepalese monarchs to avoid the site.
Over centuries, the temple has remained a significant pilgrimage site, hosting annual festivals that draw thousands of devotees.
Place Guide
Reclining Vishnu Statuecirca 7th century
The temple's centerpiece is a massive reclining statue of Lord Vishnu carved from a single black basalt block. The statue is positioned in a recessed pool of water and depicts Vishnu holding his traditional attributes: Sudarshana Chakra, club, conch shell, and gem. The crown is intricately engraved with Kirtimukha images and often adorned with a silver crown.
Temple Pool and Surroundings
The statue rests in a large pool believed to be connected hydrologically to the sacred Gosaikunda lake, which is significant in Hindu mythology related to Lord Shiva. The pool and temple setting create a serene atmosphere for worship and pilgrimage.
Contact
Phone: 981-5706697
