About Budhanilkantha Temple
Budhanilkantha Temple, nestled at the foot of Shivapuri Hill in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country. It houses the world’s largest stone carving of Lord Vishnu in a reclining pose — known as the Sleeping Vishnu — lying atop the serpent Shesha in the middle of a sacred pond. With its 7th-century origins, spiritual legends, and peaceful setting, Budhanilkantha draws devotees, historians, and travellers alike.
Location & Setting
- Country: Nepal
- Region: Kathmandu District, Bagmati Province
- Coordinates: Approx. 27.783° N, 85.358° E
- Distance from Kathmandu: ~10 km north of the city centre
- Environment: Located at the entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, surrounded by forested hills and fresh mountain air.
The temple is easily accessible by road, making it a popular pre- or post-stop for visitors heading to Himalayan treks or pilgrimage routes like the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Religious & Spiritual Significance
In Hinduism, Budhanilkantha is revered as the eternal resting place of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
- Vishnu is depicted lying on the coiled serpent Shesha, floating in the Ksheer Sagar (cosmic ocean).
- The posture symbolises the balance of creation, preservation, and renewal.
- Devotees believe that worshipping here brings blessings of protection, harmony, and prosperity.
For Buddhists, the serene form of the Sleeping Vishnu embodies compassion and universal peace, making it a site of interfaith respect.
Legends & Mythology
- Discovery Legend: Local folklore says the statue was unearthed by a farmer and his wife when their plough struck the stone while farming.
- Royal Prophecy: A centuries-old prophecy warns that any king of Nepal visiting Budhanilkantha would face misfortune — as a result, monarchs traditionally avoided the site.
- Name Origin: “Budhanilkantha” translates to “Old Blue Throat,” a poetic name sometimes linked to Lord Shiva’s Neelkanth form, though the temple itself is dedicated to Vishnu.
Temple Architecture & Features
- Main Idol: A 5-metre-long basalt statue carved from a single stone block, lying on Shesha with four hands holding traditional Vishnu symbols — the chakra, conch, lotus, and mace.
- Sacred Pond: A 13-metre-long water tank representing the cosmic ocean.
- Surrounding Shrines: Smaller temples and prayer spaces honouring various deities.
- Art Detailing: Carvings that depict the Dashavatara (ten avatars) of Vishnu.
Festivals & Rituals
- Haribodhini Ekadashi: The most important festival, held in October–November, marking Vishnu’s awakening from his cosmic sleep. Thousands gather for prayers, offerings, and ritual bathing of the idol.
- Daily Worship: Morning and evening aarti, with devotees offering flowers, incense, and traditional food items.
- Special Occasions: Ritual bathing of the idol, accompanied by Vedic chanting and cultural performances.
Visiting Budhanilkantha Temple
- Opening Hours: Early morning to late evening, busiest during festivals.
- Entry Fee: Free for all visitors.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or festival days for the most vibrant atmosphere.
- Photography: Allowed outside the pond area; respect religious customs.
- Local Tip: Combine your visit with a short hike in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park for scenic views.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is worshipped at Budhanilkantha Temple?
Lord Vishnu in his reclining form as Shesh Narayan.
How old is the statue?
It dates back to the 7th century, from the Licchavi period.
Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, but not inside the sacred water tank area.
