Matatirtha Temple
A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site honoring mothers, known for its holy pond and traditional Nepali architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Matatirtha Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site honoring mothers, known for its holy pond and traditional Nepali architecture.
"A holy place created or dedicated in the name of mother. Such a Holy place!"
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this sacred Hindu site. :pray:
💧 Holy Bath Ritual
Many visitors take a dip in the Matatirtha Kunda for spiritual purification. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Matatirtha Kunda (Holy Pond)
Temple Premises
Bathe in the sacred waters believed to purify the soul and honor maternal ancestors.

Matatirtha Temple Architecture
Main Temple Area
Admire the traditional Nepali stone and wood craftsmanship of this ancient religious site.

Mother's Day Rituals (Matatirtha Aunsi)
Temple Grounds
Witness or participate in the unique festival honoring mothers and motherhood.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Matatirtha Aunsi
Respectful Attire and Rituals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this sacred Hindu site. :pray:
💧 Holy Bath Ritual
Many visitors take a dip in the Matatirtha Kunda for spiritual purification. :droplet:
🙏 Offerings for Mothers
Bring flowers or other small offerings to honor your mother, living or deceased. :bouquet:
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the serene environment for meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection. :personinlotus_position:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this sacred Hindu site. :pray:
💧 Holy Bath Ritual
Many visitors take a dip in the Matatirtha Kunda for spiritual purification. :droplet:
🙏 Offerings for Mothers
Bring flowers or other small offerings to honor your mother, living or deceased. :bouquet:
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the serene environment for meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection. :personinlotus_position:
🚗 Easy Access
Accessible by local transport from Kathmandu, about 12 km southwest. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Matatirtha Temple for its profound spiritual significance, especially during Matatirtha Aunsi, and its serene natural setting. Many find the holy pond purifying and the traditional architecture beautiful. While the festival attracts large crowds, the temple offers a peaceful retreat for prayer and reflection outside of peak times.
"Mata= mother Tirtha= holy place
A holy place created or dedicated in the name of mother. This is one of the holliest place in Kathmandu valley. As per Hindu calendar there is a mothers day in the month of Baishakh, lots of people come here to perform a ritual called Shraddha in the name of their late mother. That particular day in Baishakh month is called Matirtha Aushi.
This place is situated just bellow the mountain and jungle, and a great source of water passage through this several stone made tap and collected to a pond called Kund. People do holly bath in this natural water pond and to the pray called Puja remembering their mother. As per Hindu religion it is a great piece of work if you do Puja here.
This is a old temple and the area or village is being converted now into a part of city with all available convenience. Just above it is Chandragiri mountain and in the name of this mountain having a cable car facility has been formed a municipality called Chandragiri.
Great place for prayer, meditation, yoga, hiking everything for refreshments.
I love this place
Jay Mata!
Jay Tirtha"
Ramesh Bhurtel
"Mathatirtha Mandir is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Nepal. It holds great religious significance, especially during Mathatirtha Aunsi, when people honor their deceased mothers. The temple is serene and peaceful, surrounded by natural beauty and traditional architecture. Pilgrims come here to bathe in the holy pond, believing it purifies the soul. Overall, it’s a spiritually enriching destination for both devotees and visitors."
Pradeep Khadka
"Matatirtha Temple is located at 27.67962°,85.23106°, Chandragiri Municipality-6 in Kathmandu, about 12 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu. The temple is easily accessible by local transportation. Not just a site of worship, the site is cultural heritage of no little significance and attracts both pilgrims and tourists alike throughout the year. The temple is culturally and religiously significant as one of the major festivals, Matatirtha Aunsi-a festival to honor mothers and motherhood-is observed here. It is also called "Aamako Mukh Herne Din" or Mother's Day, celebrated on the new moon day of Baishakh, which is the first month of the Nepali lunar calendar. According to legend, during ancient times, a farmer visited the pond within the temple premises to quench his thirst. While drinking from the pond, he saw the reflection of his late mother's face in the water. This miraculous event established the site's association with maternal reverence and spiritual significance. Since then, the temple and the pond have become a pilgrimage site for individuals seeking to honor their mothers, both living and deceased. Matatirtha Aunsi is celebrated as a whole day between the bond of mother and children. People on this day show their love and gratitude by offering sweet clothes and various gifts to mothers and take the blessings from them. For people whose mothers had died, the tradition is to go to the temple of Matatirtha. Devotees take a holy bath in the sacred pond called Matatirtha Kunda and offer "tarpan" to their departed mothers. It is believed that performing these rituals aids in attaining salvation for their mothers and brings prosperity to the family. On the eve of the new moon, the following morning rituals are preceded by the lighting of lamps in memory of one's mother, feasting, and keeping awake all night. As part of this festival, during which thousands throng the temple, devout men and women with pious hearts maintain that they behold in the reflection of the waters a vision of their mother's face who died some time ago. It attracts people from Kathmandu Valley as well as from adjoining districts. The Matatirtha Temple is the focal point of the Matatirtha Aunsi festival. Its architecture reflects traditional Nepali stone and wood craftsmanship. The temple grounds include the sacred pond, which holds immense spiritual importance as a place for performing rituals to connect with departed maternal ancestors. The temple also features a statue of a mother, where devotees offer flowers and other offerings. The various organizations representatives, along with the volunteers present, help the devotees to worship according to their rituals. This temple is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in the Chandragiri Municipality
Reference:
Kunwar, R. (2025). Assessment of geotourism potential of Matatirtha-Phakhel area, Central Nepal (Master’s thesis, Tribhuvan University). Central Department of Geology"
Rabindra Kunwar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matatirtha Temple is located about 12 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu. You can easily reach it by local buses or taxis from the city center. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
While specific parking facilities might be limited, especially during peak festival times, visitors can usually find space for vehicles nearby. It's advisable to check locally upon arrival.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Pathao are generally available in Kathmandu and can be a convenient way to get to Matatirtha Temple.
Locals often use public buses that run towards the Chandragiri Municipality area. This is a cost-effective option.
The temple grounds have some uneven terrain and stairs. While the main pond area is accessible, navigating the entire complex might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Matatirtha Temple. It is a public religious site.
The temple is usually open from early morning until evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
No, tickets are not required as there is no entry fee. However, be prepared for very large crowds during Matatirtha Aunsi.
Yes, as a sacred Hindu site, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Yes, visitors can perform rituals such as bathing in the holy pond and offering prayers. Assistance from temple volunteers may be available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Matatirtha Temple is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to honoring mothers. It's particularly significant during Matatirtha Aunsi, Nepal's Mother's Day.
Devotees bathe in the holy pond (Matatirtha Kunda) and perform 'tarpan' for departed mothers. Many also offer prayers and flowers.
Yes, the serene environment and natural surroundings make it an excellent spot for meditation, yoga, and quiet reflection.
Legend says a farmer saw his late mother's reflection in the pond, establishing its connection to maternal reverence.
While official guides might not be readily available, local volunteers or knowledgeable individuals may offer insights into the temple's significance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the temple complex, but it's always respectful to be mindful of devotees performing rituals. Avoid intrusive photography.
The Matatirtha Kunda, the temple architecture, and the surrounding natural landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites to maintain peace and privacy. It's best to avoid flying drones here.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the temple's ambiance.
Avoid photographing individuals without their consent, especially during prayer or ritualistic activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful that during major festivals, the crowds can be overwhelming for young children. It's advisable to visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience. Ensure children are dressed modestly and supervised closely, especially near the water. The nearby Chandragiri Cable Car offers a fun, non-religious activity that families might enjoy as a complement to the temple visit.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Yogis
The Matatirtha Kunda is central to the spiritual experience, with many believing its waters possess purifying qualities. Visitors often find the temple grounds conducive to quiet contemplation and personal reflection. The natural beauty of the surrounding hills adds to the serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot to reconnect with oneself and nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Matatirtha Aunsi
The legend behind this practice is poignant: it's said that a farmer, while drinking from the Matatirtha Kunda, saw the reflection of his late mother's face in the water. This miraculous event cemented the pond's status as a holy site for maternal reverence. The festival involves elaborate rituals, including bathing in the sacred pond, offering 'tarpan' (a ritualistic offering), lighting lamps, and feasting. Thousands of devotees flock to the temple, creating a vibrant yet solemn atmosphere.
Beyond the rituals, Matatirtha Aunsi reinforces the strong cultural emphasis on family bonds and respect for elders in Nepali society. The collective experience of thousands performing these rites together amplifies the spiritual energy of the place, making it a powerful destination for remembrance and connection.
Exploring Matatirtha Temple and its Surroundings
The focal point is the Matatirtha Kunda, a sacred pond fed by natural springs. Visitors often describe the water as clean and fresh, perfect for a holy bath believed to purify the soul. The area around the temple is also ideal for those seeking quiet contemplation, meditation, or even light hiking. The proximity to Chandragiri Mountain, accessible via a cable car, offers an opportunity to combine a spiritual visit with breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
As the area develops, it's becoming more accessible with conveniences, yet it retains its cultural heritage and spiritual essence. It's a place that appeals to pilgrims, tourists, and anyone looking for a refreshing experience that blends spirituality with natural beauty.
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