About this experience
Located northwest of Thamel is a sacred temple with an idol is of great mysterious origin. This incredible 5 meters long black stone features the powerful Hindu deity Visnu lying on the cosmic sea. Budhanilkantha temple dates back well over 1000 years to the time of the Licchavi Dynasty that ruled the Kathmandu Valley.
No one knows where this incredible five-meter stone came from. It did not originate in the Kathmandu Valley. It was carried from some faraway location and fashioned into the peaceful image of Lord Visnu lying on the Cosmic Sea once on the site. You mingle with the Hindu worshiper and priests as they perform their sacred Pujas above the waters that the incredible idol lays upon.
It is here you travel with your private guide who explains all of the symbolism and meaning of this amazing place. Most visitors to the Kathmandu Valley will sadly miss this place. Don’t be one of them!
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr–3 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr–3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Professional guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (Inside Ring Road including Bouddha area only)
- Local taxes
- Transport by private vehicle
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
Prepare to be awestruck by one of the most impressive and largest stone carvings in all of Nepal. This guided visit takes you to the Budhanilkantha Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site located at the foothills of the Shivapuri hills in Kathmandu.
The temple's "must-see" centerpiece is the colossal 5-meter (16.4 ft) statue of Lord Vishnu (Narayanan), reclining on the twisting coils of the cosmic serpent, Shesha. This magnificent statue, carved from a single block of black basalt stone, appears to float in a sacred pond symbolizing the cosmic ocean.
It is a place of deep devotion and powerful, tranquil energy. After paying your respects, you can explore the lively temple surroundings, which are filled with small shops offering religious items and souvenirs. This is an essential sacred site for any visitor to Kathmandu.
Here, you will behold the colossal 5-meter (16.4 ft) statue of Lord Vishnu, reclining in peaceful repose on the coils of the cosmic serpent, Shesha. This entire masterpiece is carved from a single block of black stone and appears to float in a sacred pool, symbolizing the primordial ocean.
Its origin remains one of Nepal's greatest mysteries—how this massive stone was transported to the valley over a thousand years ago is still unknown.
This is not a crowded UNESCO site; it is an authentic, living place of worship. You'll witness the deep devotion of Hindu pilgrims performing their daily pujas (rituals). Let our expert guide explain the profound symbolism and share the legends of this tranquil, powerful place.
Meeting and pickup information
- We do pick up from all hotels inside ring road including Boudha area.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Himalayan Planet Adventures
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Dress code is smart casual
- Alternate Contact: +977 9851104438
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
Traveller experiences load when you reach this section.
