Overview
Budhanilkantha Temple is a famous Hindu shrine located at the foot of the Shivapuri Hills in northern Kathmandu. It is best known for its gigantic stone statue of Lord Vishnu lying on a bed of coiled serpents (Sheshnag). Historical Background: It is carved from a single block of black basalt stone and is considered one of the largest stone carvings in Nepal. According to legend, the statue was discovered by a farmer while ploughing his field. Religious Significance: The reclining Vishnu represents Jalashayana Vishnu (Vishnu resting on cosmic waters). The name Budhanilkantha means “Old Blue Throat”, though the statue depicts Lord Vishnu, not Shiva. The pond surrounding the statue symbolizes the cosmic ocean. Cultural Beliefs: Traditionally, Nepal’s kings were forbidden to visit the site due to a belief that doing so would bring misfortune to the reigning monarch. Today, devotees from Nepal and India visit to offer prayers, especially during Haribodhini Ekadashi. Architecture & Features: The statue is about 5 meters long. Vishnu rests on 11-headed Sheshnag, with two hands holding symbolic objects while others are relaxed. The temple complex is simple, focusing attention on the sacred image.