Budhanilkantha Temple, located in Budhanilkantha, Nepal, is a Hindu open-air temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the three principal deities of the Hindu trinity. The temple is situated below the Shivapuri Hill at the northern end of the Kathmandu Valley and can be identified by a large reclining statue of Lord Vishnu. The temple’s primary statue of Budhanilkantha is considered the largest stone carving in Nepal.
Devotees are allowed to approach Sri Vishnu’s feet and, after touching them, pray to the deity.
If you’re keen on visiting this divine abode, here’s a detailed guide on how to reach it, what to see, and recommended accommodations nearby for your trip.
Interesting Fact: King Pratap Malla is said to have had a prophetic vision, which resulted in his strong belief and fear that should the King of Nepal visit the Budhanilkantha temple, death would be imminent upon his departure. Continuing until the monarchy ended, the Hindu kings of Nepal did not visit the temple.
Reaching Budhanilkantha
By Air (For Domestic and International Travelers)
Budhanilkantha is just 10 km away from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
A taxi ride from the airport will get you there in roughly 40 minutes.
By Road (From India & Other Nepali Cities)
If you’re coming from India, you can cross into Nepal through border points like Sunauli, Raxaul, or Kakarbhitta.
From those locations, buses are available to take you to Kathmandu.
Travelers from Nepali cities such as Pokhara, Chitwan, or Lumbini can also find regular buses or taxis heading to Kathmandu.
Entry Fees and Visiting Hours
Operating Hours: Open daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission Costs: No fee for entry.
Architecture of Budhanilkantha
It is said to be carved from a single block of black basalt stone of unknown origin in the 5th century. The statue of Sleeping Vishnu itself is a tall sculpture, 5 meters in length. It lies in a reclining position within a pond of water, representing the cosmic sea. The pond, also called the ‘cosmic sea,’ is 13 meters long.
Often known as Sleeping Vishnu or Jalakshayan Narayan, the murti depicts Sri Vishnu reclining on the coils of the cosmic serpent Shesha. He holds the Sudarshana Chakra, a club, a conch shell, and a gem in his four hands. He is adorned with a crown engraved with multiple Kirtimukha images, often overlapped by a silver crown.
History and Mythology
The Legend
According to legend, a farmer was working in his field one day when his plow struck a boulder, and to his surprise and alarm, blood started oozing out of the cut in the stone. Upon digging around the huge boulder, he unearthed the resplendent image of the reclining Vishnu that had remained buried in the ground.
The Name
Budhanilkantha literally means “Ancient Blue-Throat,” and how it got that name is fascinating. The real puzzler is why Budhanilkantha—a title that unquestionably refers to Lord Shiva—has been attached here to Vishnu.
The Puranas refer to the infamous churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), where Shiva swallowed the poison that emerged to save the universe. His throat turned blue, and the pain was excruciating. To relieve the pain, he struck the ground with his trident (trishul), and sacred water gushed out, forming a large kund. He drank the water and found relief, and the sacred lake became known as Gosainkunda.
The water in Budhanilkantha is popularly believed to originate from Gosainkunda, and Shaivas claim a reclining image of Shiva can be seen under the waters of the lake during the annual Lord Shiva festival there in August, which attempts to explain the association. Local legend says that a mirror-like statue of Shiva lies on the statue’s underside.
Festivals at Budhanilkantha
Haribondhini Ekadashi takes place on the 11th day of the Hindu month of Kartik (October–November), during which thousands of pilgrims visit the temple. It is the principal festival of the year, celebrating the awakening of Shri Vishnu from his long sleep.
Accommodations Near Budhanilkantha
Lemon Tree Premier, Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Distance: Approximately 0.5 km, about a 10-minute walk to Budhanilkantha Temple.
- Features: Offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can enjoy garden views and a serene environment.
- Price Range: NPR 6,000 to 8,000 per night.
Park Village Resort by KGH Group
- Distance: Around 0.7 km, approximately a 12-minute walk to Budhanilkantha Temple.
- Features: A mid-range resort featuring traditional Nepali charm, with a restaurant, rooftop views, a lush garden, and artistic rooms equipped with contemporary conveniences.
- Price Range: NPR 4,000 to 6,000 per night.
Regenta Place Sabrina Kathmandu, Nepal
- Distance: Approximately 0.6 km, about an 11-minute walk to Budhanilkantha Temple.
- Features: Provides tidy rooms with garden views, breakfast included, free Wi-Fi, a snack bar, and bike rentals.
- Price Range: NPR 3,000 to 5,000 per night.
Hotel Pabera Heritage Boutique
- Distance: Around 0.4 km, roughly an 8-minute walk to Budhanilkantha Temple.
- Features: An affordable and comfortable guest house equipped with a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and views of the valley and temple from the rooftop.
- Price Range: NPR 1,500 to 2,500 per night.
Dining Options Close to Budhanilkantha
Shivapuri Greenview Restaurant (0.5 km, 10-min walk)
A peaceful dining spot close to nature, serving traditional Nepali cuisine along with some international options. Great for a relaxed meal with scenic views.
Muhanpokhari Cafe (0.3 km, 6-min walk)
A cozy café near the entrance of Shivapuri National Park, offering local favorites like Chicken Khaja set and Chicken Jhol momo. Ideal for a quick meal before or after exploring the area.
La Hai Restaurant (0.4 km, 8-min walk)
A friendly place with a comfortable atmosphere, serving a variety of dishes suitable for casual dining with friends or family.
Mekong – Flavors of Asia (0.7 km, 12-min walk)
A fine dining restaurant at Holiday Inn Resort Kathmandu, offering Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cuisines with a sophisticated ambiance.
Final Thoughts
Budhanilkantha truly encompasses the Hindu heritage and culture of Nepal and reflects the everlasting belief in the Hindu gods. If you are keen on experiencing the spiritual side of Nepal, this temple is a must on your list!
