The magnificent Krishna Mandir, located on the west side of one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Patan Durbar Square, is unquestionably one of the square’s architectural wonders. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, the temple is well-known for its magnificent stone architecture.
Interested on visiting this sacred site? Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach it, what to expect, and the best accommodation options nearby for your stay.
Getting to the Krishna Mandir
By Air (for both domestic and foreign passengers)
About 6 kilometers from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, in Patan Durbar Square, is where you’ll find the Krishna Mandir.
It will take about half an hour to get to the temple by taxi from the airport.
Via Road(From India and Other Nepali Cities)
Travelers from India can enter Nepal through border crossings at Sunauli, Raxaul, or Kakarbhitta.
You can travel to Kathmandu by bus from these locations.
There are also frequent buses and taxis that go to Patan from Nepali cities like Pokhara, Chitwan, or Lumbini.
Entry Fees and Visiting Hours
Operating Hours: Open daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission Costs(Included in Patan Durbar Square entry fee):
- Free for Nepali citizens
- NPR 50 for SAARC country nationals
- NPR 200 for other foreign visitors
Note: Only Hindus are allowed inside though you wouldn’t miss much and can marvel the majestic structure just from outside.
Architecture of Krishna Mandir
The Krishna Temple is built in the sikhara style, which is common to northern India. Beneath the 21 golden pinnacles of the temple are three floors. The first floor houses the main inner shrine of Lord Krishna, with Radha and Rukmini on each side. The second floor enshrines Shiva linga, and the third floor holds a buddhist deity Lokeshwor (Seto Macchindranath). The pillar carvings on the first floor depict the events of the Mahabharata, while the second floor features visual carvings from the Ramayana period.
Various images of Lord Vishnu and his mount, Garuda, are found throughout the temple. Four full-size statues of Lord Vishnu upon Garuda surround the base of the sikhara. Bas-reliefs of the same theme are also located on the ground-floor cornices. Depictions of the ten avatars of Vishnu can also be seen on the outside face of the ground-level gallery. A freestanding statue of gilded Garuda, mounted on a pole, stands in front of the temple. It was erected by Siddhi Narasingh Malla about ten years after the temple’s construction.
History and Mythology
Krishna Mandir was completed in 1637 during the reign of King Siddhi Narasingh Malla.
Legend says it was inspired by a dream. One night, King Siddhi Narasingh Malla (1620-1661)AD dreamed that lord Sri Krishna and Radha were standing in front of his palace. The king then ordered a temple to be built at the same location. During a war after a decade or so, with a neighboring kingdom, the king emerged victorious after invoking Lord Krishna in order to vanquish his enemies. In extreme gratitude, the king built a replica of the temple inside the inner Sundari Chauk courtyard.
Accommodations close to Krishna Temple
Hotel Heritage Home (5- to 10-minute walk, 0.5 km away)
This boutique hotel offers cozy, reasonably priced rooms with free Wi-Fi and a tranquil atmosphere.
Prices range from NPR 2,000 to 3,000 per night.
Patan House Boutique Hotel (0.8 km away, 10–15 minutes’ walk)
A charming hotel with stylish rooms and a beautiful courtyard. It combines modern comfort with Nepali tradition, making it a great choice for travelers seeking relaxation. Prices range from NPR 3,500 to 5,000 per night.
The Inn Patan (0.6 km away, 5–10 minutes’ walk)
A great value hotel offering clean, spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant with local dishes. It’s conveniently located for exploring the area. Prices range from NPR 2,500 to 3,500 per night.
Bodhi Boutique Hotel (1 km away, 10–12 minutes’ walk)
A peaceful hotel with artistic design, featuring lovely rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a cozy restaurant. Prices range from NPR 3,000 to 4,500 per night.
Dining Options Close to Krishna Temple
The Garden Kitchen (0.5 km, 5–10 minutes’ walk)
A cozy spot offering a mix of Nepali and international dishes in a peaceful garden setting. Great for a relaxed meal.
Bodhi Nath Café (0.3 km, 5 minutes’ walk)
A charming café serving Tibetan and Nepali food like momos and dal bhat, perfect for a light bite after exploring.
Patan Durbar Square Café (0.7 km, 10 minutes’ walk)
A casual spot with local and Western dishes and views of the Durbar Square, ideal for a meal while taking in the atmosphere.
Madhuban Restaurant (0.9 km, 12–15 minutes’ walk)
A cozy restaurant offering traditional Nepali food and vegetarian options, with friendly service and a comfortable vibe.
Festivals
Krishna Janmashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna is the most significant festival at the temple. Celebrated with prayers, bhajans, and special rituals, it typically takes place in August or September.
Holi
Holi, which falls between March and early Apri,l is also celebrated with enthusiasm at the temple, where devotees gather to celebrate with colors, prayers, and festivities.
Closing thoughts
This structural marvel encompasses both spiritual and historical richness, which might just be up your alley. Truly, it is a must-visit for anyone visiting Patan and seeking a spiritual experience!
