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Budhanilkantha Temple lies at the foot of the Shivapuri Hills in the Kathmandu Valley and is a testament to Nepal’s rich religious past. This ancient Hindu shrine is devoted to Lord Vishnu and is famous for its colossal statue of the deity reclining on a bed of serpents. Such is the serenity of this temple’s surroundings, set amidst greenery and crystal mountain streams that evoke feelings associated with spirituality, thus attracting thousands of devotees and curious visitors alike every year. Being one of the major Vishnu temples in Nepal, Budhanilkantha opens up a small window to Nepal’s religious traditions and architectural genius.
Budhanilkantha Temple Location
Photo: 松岡明芳 / Wikimedia Commons
The Budhanilkantha Temple is located in the northern outskirts of Kathmandu, approximately 8 kilometres from the city centre. Situated in the Budhanilkantha municipality, the temple lies at the foot of the Shivapuri Hill, part of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The exact Budhanilkantha Temple address is Nepal Vipassana Meditation Center Rd 44600, Budhanilkantha 44600, Nepal.
How To Reach Budhanilkantha Temple
Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching the Budhanilkantha Temple Nepal is relatively convinient, with several options available:
By Bus: Regular public buses run from central Kathmandu to Budhanilkantha. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Look for buses heading to “Budhanilkantha” or “Vishnu Mandir” at the Ratna Park bus stop.
By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Kathmandu and offer a more comfortable and direct route to the temple. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Private Vehicle: If you can access a private vehicle or hire a car, the drive from central Kathmandu takes about 30 minutes.
By Hiking: For the more adventurous, it’s possible to hike to Budhanilkantha from Kathmandu. The trail starts from Narayanthan and takes about 2-3 hours, offering beautiful views of the valley and surrounding hills.
Places To Visit Around Budhanilkantha Temple
While the temple is the main attraction, several nearby sites offer additional cultural and natural experiences.
1. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Photo: Ricky Partel / Wikimedia Commons
Adjacent to the temple, the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a haven for nature lovers and hikers. This protected area covers 159 square kilometres of forested hills and is home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, and even the Shivapuri peak. The park offers a refreshing escape into nature and the chance to spot various bird species, possibly even leopards and bears. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to combine their spiritual visit to Budhanilkantha with outdoor adventure.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: NPR 565 / ₹355 for foreign nationals
2. Vishnu Dham
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
Located near the temple, Vishnu Dham is a modern spiritual complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This relatively new addition to the area complements the ancient Budhanilkantha Temple with its contemporary architecture and facilities. The complex includes a large prayer hall, meditation spaces, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Vishnu Dham offers visitors a chance to experience a more modern interpretation of Hindu spirituality alongside the traditional temple. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for reflection and meditation.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
3. Nagi Gompa
Photo: Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Perched on the slopes of Shivapuri Hill, Nagi Gompa is a Buddhist nunnery that offers a stark contrast to the Hindu traditions of Budhanilkantha. This serene monastery is home to about 100 nuns and provides stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. Visitors can explore the colourful prayer hall, observe Buddhist rituals, and even participate in meditation sessions. The gompa’s location makes it a popular stop for hikers exploring the Shivapuri area, offering both spiritual and natural beauty.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
4. Sundarijal
Photo: Sudan Shrestha / Wikimedia Commons
About 5 kilometres east of Budhanilkantha, Sundarijal is a picturesque village known for its waterfalls and the starting point of the popular Sundarijal-Chisapani trek. The area features a small hydroelectric plant, which is Kathmandu’s main water source. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing atmosphere, take short hikes to nearby waterfalls, and experience rural Nepali life. Sundarijal offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural insight.
Timings: 24*7
5. Nagarkot
Photo: Bijay chaurasia / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 32 kilometres from Budhanilkantha, Nagarkot is renowned for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, especially during sunrise and sunset. This hill station offers stunning vistas of the Everest and Langtang ranges, making it a favourite spot for nature lovers and photographers. The crisp mountain air and the beauty of lush green forests add to its charm. The traditional Nepalese culture is evident in the local crafts and cuisine.
Timings: 24*7
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation options near the temple cater to various preferences and budgets. For those seeking a peaceful retreat close to the temple, the Park Village Resort offers comfortable rooms and beautiful gardens, providing a serene environment for spiritual reflection. Budget travellers might consider the Shivapuri Heights Cottage, which offers cosy rooms with stunning valley views. For a more luxurious stay, the Gokarna Forest Resort, located about 7 kilometres from Budhanilkantha, provides world-class amenities in a forested setting.
Where To Eat
Photo: Subhasmita behera / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The area around the temple offers a mix of local eateries and more upscale dining options. For an authentic Nepali meal, try the local bhatti (small restaurants) near the temple, which serve traditional dishes like dal bhat (lentils and rice), momos (dumplings), and sel roti (sweet bread). For those seeking a more refined dining experience, the Park Village Resort’s restaurant offers a mix of Nepali, Indian, and Continental cuisines in a pleasant setting. The Gokarna Forest Resort also features excellent dining options, including Durbar, a restaurant specialising in Nepali royal cuisine.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: 松岡明芳 / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Budhanilkantha Temple is from October to November and February to April. During these dry seasons, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies, making it ideal for both temple visits and nature walks. The autumn period also coincides with major Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding to the cultural experience.
While the monsoon season brings lush greenery, it can be challenging due to heavy rains. Winter offers chilly mornings but clear mountain views, and for those interested in religious festivals, visiting during Haribondhini Ekadashi in October or November is particularly special.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: 松岡明芳 / Wikimedia Commons
Cost Of The Trip:
The cost of visiting the temple varies based on travel style and the duration of the stay. Budget travellers can expect to spend $20-30 (₹1,600-2,400) per day, covering basic accommodation, meals, and transportation. Mid-range travellers might budget $50-80 (₹4,000-6,400) daily for better accommodations, dining options, and a guide. Luxury travellers could spend $100 (₹8,000) or more per day, enjoying high-end resorts and fine dining.
Tips For Travellers
- As Budhanilkantha is a religious site, wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
- Avoid touching the statue or any religious artefacts without permission.
- Always ask before taking photos, especially of people or inside temple areas.
- Many small shops and eateries near the temple may not accept cards.
- A few words in Nepali can go a long way in interacting with locals.
- A knowledgeable local guide can provide valuable insights into the temple’s history and significance.
Budhanilkantha Temple offers a profound spiritual experience with its magnificent reclining Vishnu statue and serene atmosphere. A visit to this sacred site is a must for those seeking a deep connection with Nepalese heritage and tranquillity. To enhance your journey and make the most of your visit, consider planning your trip to Nepal with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Tomáš Malík / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
