Temples & religious sites
Kasthamandap
Overview
Kasthamandap is a three-tiered wooden temple and pavilion located in the Durbar Square area. Tracing its origins back to the 7th century, the building collapsed in the 2015 earthquake and was subsequently rebuilt using traditional timber methods. Travellers visit to observe the reconstructed architecture, see the central shrine dedicated to Gorakhnath, and watch daily community life in the open shelter.
Getting There
From the city centre, the site is accessible on foot, by cycle rickshaw, or by taxi. Walking from central areas like Thamel takes about 15 to 25 minutes, while a short taxi or rickshaw ride takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on local traffic.
Time to Spend
Set aside 20 to 40 minutes to view the wooden structure, inspect the carvings, and step inside the central shrine area.
When to Go
Early mornings and late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and lighter crowds. The site gets crowded during festival days and peak afternoon market hours. The dry months from autumn through spring are best for walking.
Nearby Attractions
You can easily combine a visit with several neighbouring sites on foot:
- Maru, Kathmandu (0.1km)
- Basantapur Durbar Square (0.1km)
- Hanuman Dhoka (0.2km)
- Taleju Temple (0.2km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors