Sheshnarayan Temple
An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, featuring a sacred pond and a cave of enlightenment.
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Must-see attractions
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Best Time
For a tranquil spiritual experience
Sheshnarayan Temple
Best Time
For a tranquil spiritual experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, featuring a sacred pond and a cave of enlightenment.
"A peaceful escape with a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist spirituality, featuring a beautiful pond."
Combine with Dakshinkali Visit
Easily visit this temple when heading to the nearby Dakshinkali Temple. Parking is roadside. :car:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect at this sacred Hindu and Buddhist site. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sheshnarayan Temple
Near Dakshinkali Municipality
An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, resting on the serpent Sheshnaaga. A significant pilgrimage site.
Vasuki Pond
At the base of the temple
A crystal-clear pond teeming with fish, fed by natural springs, adding to the site's serene beauty.
Guru Rinpoche Cave
Adjacent to the temple
A sacred cave believed to be where Guru Padmasambhava attained enlightenment, revered by Buddhists.
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Timing Your Visit for Serenity
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Dakshinkali Visit
Easily visit this temple when heading to the nearby Dakshinkali Temple. Parking is roadside. :car:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect at this sacred Hindu and Buddhist site. :pray:
Can I check out the Hindu Temple in Robbinsville if I am a non-hindu white dude?
Observe the Stone Carvings
Look for Naga and Ganesh carvings on the stone roof walls. :eyes:
Holi Milk Phenomenon
During Holi, milk is said to flow from a carved stone above the temple. :milk_bag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Dakshinkali Visit
Easily visit this temple when heading to the nearby Dakshinkali Temple. Parking is roadside. :car:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect at this sacred Hindu and Buddhist site. :pray:
Observe the Stone Carvings
Look for Naga and Ganesh carvings on the stone roof walls. :eyes:
Holi Milk Phenomenon
During Holi, milk is said to flow from a carved stone above the temple. :milk_bag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sheshnarayan Temple is praised for its serene atmosphere and historical significance, particularly its dual Hindu and Buddhist heritage. Visitors appreciate the clear Vasuki Pond and the spiritual ambiance, finding it a peaceful escape despite its roadside location. Some note limited facilities, but the overall experience is considered calming and culturally enriching.
"Seshanarayan Temple, which falls under the Dakshinkailin Municipality, is a natural religious and cultural site sacred to Buddhists and Hindus.the Sheshnarayan Temple near Dakshinkali is a historical and spiritual landmark with roots in the Licchavi period, enriched by mythology, and shaped by centuries of devotion and cultural exchange. Its enduring presence reflects the deep interplay of faith, art, and nature in the Kathmandu Valley.
The main temple structure as it stands today is thought to have been built or significantly renovated in the 17th century, though the site itself has been a place of pilgrimage for much longer. The cave adjacent to the temple, now dedicated to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), a key figure in Tibetan Buddhism, suggests that the area has been revered across both Hindu and Buddhist traditions for centuries, reflecting Nepal’s syncretic religious heritage.
This temple is one of the four prominent Narayan temples in the Kathmandu Valley, alongside Changu Narayan, Icchangu Narayan, and Bishanku Narayan, which are believed to have been established to protect the valley from evil forces.
The Sheshnarayan Temple is an ancient Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, often depicted resting on the serpent Sheshnaaga (hence the name "Sheshnarayan". Therefore, since it is a religious and natural heritage, if you are going to visit the Dakshinkali Temple, you must definitely visit this temple. At the bottom of the temple, you can see a pond where various fish are found, and natural water flows there. Since there are no special facilities for parking, you can easily park near the road."
Jenish P (Nomad Jeni's)
"One of holiest place in Kathmandu. It is believed that this is the one of the important Narayan temple in Kathmandu Valley among four. By the priest(monk) they said that-“ shape of Nagas & Ganesh can be seen right in the wall of stone roof. In the Holi time, just above the temple there is craved stone from where milk regularly comes. Believed it is the holiest water of Narayan. Monk from China(Tibet), India, Nepal normally comes to visit."
MANI SUBEDI
"One of the religious place (one among 4 Narayans of Kathmandu) located in the southern part of the Kathmandu valley."
Rajib Singh Basnet
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sheshnarayan Temple is located near Dakshinkali. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus heading towards Dakshinkali from Kathmandu. The temple is situated right beside the busy road leading to Dakshinkali, making it easily accessible. Parking is typically available along the roadside.
Yes, it's conveniently located beside the main road to Dakshinkali. Look for signs indicating the temple. The pond and temple complex are quite visible from the road.
For convenience, a taxi is recommended, especially if you're combining it with a visit to Dakshinkali. Local buses are a budget-friendly option but can be crowded.
Since it's on a busy route, be mindful of traffic. Parking is usually roadside, so be prepared for a short walk to the temple entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no entrance fee to visit Sheshnarayan Temple. It's a public religious site, though donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The temple is typically open from early morning until early evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site and its surroundings.
Yes, Sheshnarayan Temple is a site of religious and cultural significance for both Hindus and Buddhists, and visitors of all backgrounds are generally welcome.
No, advance booking is not required for Sheshnarayan Temple as it's a freely accessible religious site.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully within the temple premises. Avoid loud noises and littering.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the temple complex, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially when photographing religious icons or during prayer times.
The Vasuki Pond with its clear water and fish offers beautiful reflections. The temple architecture itself, the Guru Rinpoche Cave entrance, and the surrounding natural landscape are also great subjects.
While generally allowed, avoid intrusive photography, especially of worshippers. Some specific areas within the temple might have restrictions, so observe any signage.
You can capture serene pond views, intricate temple carvings, the cave entrance, and the spiritual atmosphere of the site.
🎫 🙏 Onsite Experience
It's one of the four important Narayan temples in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Lord Vishnu resting on the serpent Sheshnaaga. The site also holds significance for Buddhists due to the Guru Rinpoche Cave.
Don't miss the main temple, the Vasuki Pond with its fish, and the cave dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava. Look for the unique stone carvings on the temple walls.
During Holi, it's believed that milk flows from a carved stone above the temple, considered a holy water. Monks from China, India, and Nepal visit this site.
Despite being near a busy road, the temple area is known for its calm and peaceful atmosphere, offering a sense of tranquility to visitors.
Basic facilities might be limited. It's advisable to use restrooms before arriving and carry any snacks or water you might need.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't extensive play areas, the historical and spiritual context can be a gentle introduction to Nepal's culture. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can help avoid the heat and potential crowds, making the experience more comfortable for younger visitors.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
The unique phenomenon during Holi, where milk is said to flow from a carved stone, is of particular interest to devout visitors. The temple also attracts monks from various Buddhist traditions, adding to its spiritual aura.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Syncretic Spiritual Hub
The temple's history is rooted in the Licchavi period, with the current structure believed to have been significantly renovated in the 17th century. It stands as one of the four prominent Narayan temples in the valley, each established with the belief of protecting the region. The presence of the Vasuki Pond, a natural spring with clear water and abundant fish, further enhances the site's spiritual and natural allure.
Exploring the Sacred Waters and Caves
Above the temple, the Guru Rinpoche Cave offers a glimpse into the Buddhist heritage of the area. This cave is a significant pilgrimage spot for Buddhists, believed to be where Guru Padmasambhava achieved spiritual realization. The cave's presence underscores the historical coexistence and mutual respect between Hindu and Buddhist practices in Nepal.
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