Jal Binayak Temple Chobhar - A small building with a golden roof next to trees
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Jal Binayak Temple Chobhar

4.5
·366 reviews·Kirtipur, Nepal

A powerful Ganesh temple by the Bagmati River, steeped in legend and offering spiritual solace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Jal Binayak Temple Chobhar - A small building with a golden roof next to trees

Jal Binayak Temple Chobhar

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A powerful Ganesh temple by the Bagmati River, steeped in legend and offering spiritual solace.

4.5
(366 reviews)

"Most powerful temple I have visited so far in Nepal. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Perfect Road Access

The road leading to Jal Binayak Temple is in great condition, making access easy.

🧘‍♀️ Guided Meditation

The temple priest, Anishji, offers guidance for meditation experiences.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jal Binayak Temple

Jal Binayak Temple

Chobhar Gorge

A powerful Ganesh temple, revered by Hindus and Buddhists, believed to remove obstacles.

Chobhar Gorge

Chobhar Gorge

Bagmati River

Witness the historic gorge where Manjushree drained the Kathmandu Valley's ancient lake.

Bagmati River Views

Bagmati River Views

Below the temple

Enjoy scenic views of the Bagmati River flowing through the gorge, a testament to ancient legends.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Chobhar's Charm

Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially if you're seeking a peaceful experience. Tuesdays and festival days for Lord Ganesh are popular, so plan accordingly if you want to witness the fervor or avoid it.

Understand the Spiritual Significance

Jal Binayak is one of four 'Binayaks' in the Kathmandu Valley, revered by both Hindus and Newari Buddhists. It's believed to protect against water-related dangers and aid in completing tasks.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Tuesdays
Why
Witness local devotion
Crowd
Medium
When
Festivals
Why
Experience cultural celebrations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the best place to visit near Kathmandu during summer. If you know the name of this place then comment down below. #fyp #nepal #Summer #kathmandu #travel #river #water #swimming #fun #friends #nearkathmandu # traveling #Hiking #journey Do you know how to swim?
@methesaugat4
86.5K likes • 1.9M views

🚗 Perfect Road Access

The road leading to Jal Binayak Temple is in great condition, making access easy. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Guided Meditation

The temple priest, Anishji, offers guidance for meditation experiences. Reddit

Travel Places List Near Kathmandu | Top 10 | Unheard Places To Travel | Ride To Places | Hidden Gems BG Video Credit: FLY WITH ME #travellife #travelplaces #kathmandu #lalitpur #bhakatapur #valley #natural #hiddengems #ilovenature #travellife #fromeverest
@from.everest
20.6K likes • 674.8K views

🏞️ Summer Escape

A great spot near Kathmandu for summer, offering a refreshing escape with river views. TikTok

🗺️ Hidden Gem

Considered an unheard-of place and a hidden gem near Kathmandu. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Perfect Road Access

The road leading to Jal Binayak Temple is in great condition, making access easy. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Guided Meditation

The temple priest, Anishji, offers guidance for meditation experiences. Reddit

🏞️ Summer Escape

A great spot near Kathmandu for summer, offering a refreshing escape with river views. TikTok

🗺️ Hidden Gem

Considered an unheard-of place and a hidden gem near Kathmandu. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(366 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jal Binayak Temple is praised for its powerful spiritual energy and the serene setting by the Bagmati River and Chobhar Gorge. Visitors appreciate the historical significance tied to Manjushree's legend and the opportunity for guided meditation. However, some may find it less developed compared to major tourist hubs.

"JAL= पानी (water)
Vinayak = विघ्नहर्ता, गणेश (obstacle remover) Ganesh
This place could be attacked by water at any time, and to protect it from such danger, the protector lord Ganesha was created here. This is one of four "Binayaks" in the Kathmandu valley.
It is believed that Kathmandu valley was a lake and Manjushushree cut this area by draining water. The river which flows just below is Bagmati. If we see it from a little elevated area we can clearly judge that it's a true story that has been explained in history.
Let the Jalbinayak project us."

Ramesh Bhurtel

"It is a must visit place if you are roaming around Chobhar area! Located at the bank of the river that holds as a passage for the Chobhar gorge, Jal Binayak is worshipped by Hindus and Newari Buddhists alike as a form of Gantric Ganesh!"

Nipun Shakya

"Jal Binayak is one the place you should visit if you heard about Kathmandu Valley how it was made. #Manjushree"

MANI SUBEDI

What People Like

Powerful spiritual energy
Scenic river views
Historical legends

What People Dislike

Can be crowded on Tuesdays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The road access to Jal Binayak Temple in Chobhar is reported to be perfect, making it easy to reach by private vehicle or taxi from Kathmandu. Reddit

While considered a hidden gem, the journey is straightforward with good road conditions. It's a popular spot for those exploring areas near Kathmandu. TikTok

Many visitors opt for private vehicles or taxis for convenience. The drive itself can be scenic, especially if you're looking for places near Kathmandu. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding entrance fees is not widely available, but typically, entry to temples in Nepal is free or involves a small donation. It's advisable to check upon arrival.

Temples in Nepal generally open early in the morning and close in the evening. For specific timings, especially if you wish to meet the priest, it's best to visit during daylight hours.

You can visit any day, but Tuesdays are particularly crowded due to local devotion to Lord Ganesh. Weekdays outside of Tuesdays offer a more serene experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can worship at the powerful Ganesh temple, enjoy the views of the Bagmati River and Chobhar Gorge, and experience a guided meditation session with the temple priest. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find the temple conducive to meditation, with the priest offering guidance for a profound experience. Reddit

Jal Binayak is one of four 'Binayaks' in the Kathmandu Valley, believed to remove obstacles and protect against water dangers. It's revered by both Hindus and Newari Buddhists. Reddit

While the TikTok video mentions swimming, it's generally not advisable to swim in the Bagmati River due to water quality and currents. The focus is more on the scenic views. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the temple and gorge. Weekdays offer fewer people for unobstructed shots. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options directly at the temple are limited. You'll find more food choices in the main Chobhar area or back in Kathmandu city. It's recommended to eat before or after your visit.

Bringing snacks is generally acceptable, but it's important to be respectful of the religious site and dispose of any waste properly. Avoid eating inside the main temple area.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is usually permitted in the temple complex, but it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially the priest. TikTok

Capture the temple's architecture, the panoramic views of the Bagmati River and Chobhar Gorge, and the spiritual atmosphere. The surrounding natural beauty is also a great subject. TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in religious and sensitive areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone near the temple or gorge.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jal Binayak Temple offers a unique blend of history and spirituality that can be engaging for families. The legend of Manjushree draining the ancient lake is a captivating story for children, and the views of the Bagmati River and Chobhar Gorge provide a natural spectacle. While the temple itself is a place of worship, the surrounding area offers opportunities for light exploration. TikTok

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, making it easier to manage children. The perfect road access means a comfortable journey. Pack some snacks and water, as dining options directly at the temple are limited. Focus on sharing the historical tales and enjoying the scenic beauty together.

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Meditators

For those on a spiritual quest, Jal Binayak Temple is a highly recommended destination. It's considered one of the most powerful temples in Nepal, offering an environment conducive to deep meditation and introspection. The presence of the temple priest, Anishji, who offers guidance, is a significant draw for those looking to enhance their meditative practice. Reddit

The temple's association with removing obstacles and its serene setting by the river contribute to its spiritual aura. Visitors often report experiencing a sense of transcendence and inner peace. Visiting during quieter weekday hours will allow for a more undisturbed and profound spiritual experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Manjushree and Chobhar Gorge

The history of Chobhar is deeply intertwined with the legend of Manjushree, the Bodhisattva of wisdom. According to ancient tales, the entire Kathmandu Valley was once a vast lake. Manjushree, seeing the potential of the land, used his divine sword to cut through the southern hills, creating the Chobhar Gorge and draining the water. This act is believed to have made the valley habitable and fertile. The Bagmati River, flowing through the gorge today, is a constant reminder of this epic event. Reddit

Visiting Jal Binayak Temple offers a unique perspective on this legend. The temple's location at the bank of the river, near the gorge, allows visitors to visualize the historical narrative. From elevated viewpoints, one can truly appreciate how the landscape aligns with the story of the valley's formation. It's a place where history and spirituality converge, offering a tangible connection to Nepal's ancient past. TikTok

Spiritual Significance of Jal Binayak

Jal Binayak Temple is not just another religious site; it holds significant spiritual importance within the Kathmandu Valley. It is recognized as one of the four 'Binayaks', which are specific forms of Lord Ganesh revered for their power to remove obstacles and bring success to endeavors. This particular form, 'Jal Binayak,' is associated with water and protection against its dangers, a fitting tribute given its location near the Bagmati River and the historical narrative of the valley being a lake. Reddit

The temple is a sacred space for both Hindus and Newari Buddhists, highlighting the syncretic religious practices prevalent in Nepal. Visitors often report experiencing a profound sense of peace and spiritual energy, with some describing it as a place for deep meditation. The current priest, Anishji, is known to guide visitors through meditation, enhancing the spiritual experience for those seeking it. TikTokReddit

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