Budhanilkantha Temple,Nepal

Legend: The statue was discovered floating in the water and is said to be self-manifested (swayambhu) by some devotees. Local beliefs include that the figure of Vishnu silently watches over the valley and that the statue will submerge if Nepal's kings are unfit to rule. Another popular tradition links the site's name to local lore about the 'blue-throated' gods and the temple's protective presence over Kathmandu.

• Reclining Vishnu (Budhanilkantha) statue — a single black stone statue about 5 meters long reclining on the coils of the serpent Shesha.
• Sacred pond (temple pool) that the statue appears to float in; serene setting used for rituals and offerings.
• Traditional temple complex and shrines surrounding the pool with smaller deities and prayer areas.
• Scenic approach and nearby greenery at the foothills of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.

• Single-block black stone statue carved in exquisite detail
• Iconography of Vishnu with four arms holding conch, discus, mace and lotus
• The statue's unusual reclining posture in a shallow water basin (visually striking and symbolic)
• Close proximity to nature trails and views of the northern edge of Kathmandu Valley

• Darshan (religious viewing) and offering prayers to the reclining Vishnu
• Participating in puja ceremonies and receiving prasād
• Photography of the statue and pond (respect temple rules and restricted zones)
• Short nature walks toward Shivapuri foothills and birdwatching
• Exploring nearby shops selling religious items and souvenirs

• Haribodhini Ekadashi — the major festival when many devotees gather as it marks Vishnu's awakening.
• Janai Purnima / Raksha Bandhan — pilgrimage and rituals are common on these auspicious days for many Nepali Hindus.

October to December and March to May — clear skies, comfortable temperatures; avoid the heavy monsoon season (June–August) for better access and views.

Temperate mountain climate with cool mornings and evenings in autumn and spring; monsoon brings heavy rain and limited visibility in summer.

Typically no formal entry fee for the temple; small donations are customary. Usual opening hours are roughly 06:00–18:00 but timings may vary on festival days and with temple administration.

Located about 8–12 km north of central Kathmandu (depending on route). Nearest airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). Reachable by taxi, private car, or local bus from Kathmandu; the drive typically takes 30–60 minutes depending on traffic. There is limited parking at the site and a short walking approach from drop-off points.

1–2 hours — enough time for darshan, a short walk, and visiting nearby stalls; combine with a hike to Shivapuri for a half-day trip.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) for temple respect; comfortable shoes (you remove footwear before approaching inner sanctum), a light jacket for cooler mornings, and rain gear in monsoon season.

Try nearby local snacks and tea vendors; common souvenirs include prayer beads, small Vishnu statues, thangka-style paintings, and other religious items. Temple prasād (blessed food) may be available on special days.