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Temples & religious sites

Budhanilkantha Temple

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Budhanilkantha Temple

Budhanilkantha Temple

Located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring a large reclining stone carving of the deity resting on a bed of serpents. Travelers visit this site to see the unique sculpture and experience a quieter environment compared to the dense urban center of the city.

Getting There

The temple is situated north of the city center. Most visitors reach the site via taxi or ride-sharing services from central Kathmandu. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Duration of Visit

Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the temple grounds, view the central shrine, and explore the surrounding village area.

When to Visit

Visiting during the early morning is recommended to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. The site can become crowded during Hindu religious festivals and holidays. The autumn and spring seasons offer the most stable weather for visiting the outdoor grounds.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its location, this site can be combined with other northern attractions:

  • Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (3.3km)
  • Kopan Monastery (4km)
  • Bagmati River (6.4km)
  • Chabahil (6.9km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

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Good to visit alongside

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Parks & gardens

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

This national park lies at the foot of Shivapuri Peak, on the northern edge of the Kathmandu basin. Since its designation in 2002, it has been a popular natural retreat for walking and trekking through dense forest trails.

3.3 km away

Kopan Monastery

Temples & religious sites

Kopan Monastery

This Tibetan Buddhist monastery is located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, near Boudhanath. It has served as a hub for an international Buddhist network, drawing many visitors who come to experience meditation and practice.

4.0 km away

Bagmati River

Nature

Bagmati River

A sacred river that rises in the hills north of the Kathmandu Valley and flows through the city center. The Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath sits on its banks, where visitors can observe cremation rituals.

6.4 km away

Chabahil

Shopping & districts

Chabahil

An old neighborhood in northeastern Kathmandu, Chabahil is known for the Dhando Chaitya Stupa, considered one of the valley's oldest Buddhist sites. It's close to Pashupatinath and Guhyeshwari temples, making it easy to visit together.

6.9 km away

Charumati Stupa

Temples & religious sites

Charumati Stupa

A Buddhist stupa in Kathmandu, also known as Chabahil Stupa. Its modest, unassuming atmosphere offers a close-up look at local faith and everyday life.

7.1 km away

Guhyeshwari Temple

Temples & religious sites

Guhyeshwari Temple

This Hindu temple sits on the southern bank of the Bagmati River, near Pashupatinath. Regarded as one of the Shakti Peethas, it is a pilgrimage site especially popular among Tantric devotees.

7.5 km away