Bhimsen Temple Patan
A unique 3-story pagoda in Patan Durbar Square dedicated to Bhimsen, the god of trade, known for its gold leaf adornments.
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Must-see attractions
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See architectural details
Bhimsen Temple Patan
Best Time
See architectural details
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique 3-story pagoda in Patan Durbar Square dedicated to Bhimsen, the god of trade, known for its gold leaf adornments.
"A beautiful temple with a lot of history that was rebuilt nicely after the 2015 earthquake."
📸 Capture the Details
The golden leaf work and pagoda structure are stunning. Get shots from different angles!
🚶♂️ Explore Patan Square
Bhimsen Temple is part of the larger Patan Durbar Square complex. Allow time to see everything!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Three-Story Pagoda
Patan Durbar Square
Admire the intricate architecture of this unique pagoda, adorned with golden leaf details.
Bhimsen's Shrine
First floor (above ground level)
Dedicated to Bhimsen, the god of trade and business, this temple is a significant Newar religious site.
Post-Earthquake Restoration
Patan Durbar Square
Witness the impressive reconstruction efforts that have restored the temple's former glory.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
The golden leaf work and pagoda structure are stunning. Get shots from different angles!
🚶♂️ Explore Patan Square
Bhimsen Temple is part of the larger Patan Durbar Square complex. Allow time to see everything!
Can you help me with the specific location where I took this photo in Kathmandu back in 2002–2003? I was thinking it might be near Kathmandu Durbar Square, but possibly Patan or Bhaktapur...? Can anyone figure it out based on the column and buildings in the background?
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship. Cover shoulders and knees.
🚫 Inner Sanctum Access
Foreigners cannot enter the main shrine. Enjoy the exterior beauty and surrounding atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
The golden leaf work and pagoda structure are stunning. Get shots from different angles!
🚶♂️ Explore Patan Square
Bhimsen Temple is part of the larger Patan Durbar Square complex. Allow time to see everything!
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship. Cover shoulders and knees.
🚫 Inner Sanctum Access
Foreigners cannot enter the main shrine. Enjoy the exterior beauty and surrounding atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bhimsen Temple for its impressive post-earthquake restoration and striking architecture, particularly its gold leaf adornments. Its location within Patan Durbar Square adds to its charm, with vendors contributing to the lively atmosphere. While the inner sanctum is inaccessible to foreigners, the exterior beauty and historical significance are widely appreciated.
"The post-earthquake renovation has reinstated the previous glory. Whether it's day or night, this temple has always been a beautiful sight. The fruit and sundry vendors in front of the temple adds to the temple's charm."
Sachi Mulmi
"Dedicated to Bhimsen, the god of trade among the Newars - the historical inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley and the 8th largest ethnic group in Nepal. The monument is of uncertain age but was rebuilt in 1682 by Shrinivas Malla (r. 1661-85) following a fire. Later reconstructions took place in 1934, following the great earthquake, and again in 1967. Although the temple was significantly damaged (though not leveled) in the April 2015 earthquake, it reopened in early 2022 after a thoroughgoing reconstruction that retained much material from its pre-earthquake form.
Like all Bhimsen temples, its ground floor plan is rectangular, with Bhimsen himself residing on the first floor (i.e., one floor above ground level). According to Michael Hutt, the temple is managed by the Kapali-Jogi, a Newar caste of Shaiva renouncers who perform services such as death rituals and religious music for community members. The shrine to Bhimsen, which they maintain, is strictly off-limits to foreigners, who are barred from entering the sanctum via its steep staircase (see image 62), but visitors are otherwise welcome to approach the building's exterior from all angles."
Nelson Ferreira - Aulas de Arte - Pintura e Desenho
"An ancient temple of Bhimsen Maharaj, The God of wisdom and good fortune. Stands tall at the patan Durbar square. It is one of the biggest temple in the surrounding. Massive and majestic."
Jenson
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bhimsen Temple is located within Patan Durbar Square. You can reach Patan Durbar Square by taxi, local bus, or ride-sharing services from Kathmandu. The temple is easily accessible on foot once you are inside the square.
Yes, Bhimsen Temple is prominently situated in Patan Durbar Square, often described as the northernmost temple. Its distinctive three-story pagoda design makes it easily recognizable.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are convenient options. Local buses are also available and are a budget-friendly choice, though they can be more crowded.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You will need an entry ticket for Patan Durbar Square, which covers access to the temple grounds. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the square.
Bhimsen Temple is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of Patan Durbar Square. Specific timings may vary, but it's usually open from morning until early evening.
No, the inner sanctum of Bhimsen Temple is strictly off-limits to foreigners. Visitors are welcome to admire the temple's exterior from all angles.
The entry fee is for Patan Durbar Square. Once inside the square, you can view Bhimsen Temple from the outside without an additional fee.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography of the temple's exterior is generally permitted. However, always be respectful and avoid taking photos of people without their consent, especially during religious activities.
Try capturing the temple from different levels of Patan Durbar Square. The golden leaf work is particularly striking when the sun hits it.
No, photography is not allowed inside the inner sanctum of Bhimsen Temple. Focus on the architectural details and the vibrant atmosphere of the square.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Bhimsen is revered as the god of trade, business, and good fortune among the Newar community. The temple is dedicated to his worship.
The temple's exact age is uncertain, but it was rebuilt in 1682 by Shrinivas Malla. It has undergone several reconstructions, notably after earthquakes in 1934 and 2015.
Bhimsen Temple is a unique three-story pagoda, distinguished by its significant use of gold leaf on its decorative elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to observe the architectural details and imagine the stories behind the temple. The presence of fruit and sundry vendors in front of the temple can also add a lively element to the visit. Remember to dress modestly and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for local buses to reach Patan Durbar Square from Kathmandu for the most economical transport. Once there, exploring the temple and the surrounding square is free. Pack your own water and snacks to save on costs within the tourist area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel of Bhimsen Temple
The ground floor plan is rectangular, a common feature for Bhimsen temples, with the deity's shrine located on the first floor, one level above ground. This unique layout adds to its architectural interest. Visitors are welcome to explore the exterior, appreciating the detailed woodwork and the overall majestic presence of the temple within the bustling square.
Recent reconstructions, particularly after the devastating 2015 earthquake, have ensured that the temple's beauty is preserved for future generations. The dedication to maintaining its historical integrity while incorporating modern restoration techniques is evident in its current state.
The Significance of Bhimsen Worship
According to local tradition and historical accounts, the Kapali-Jogi, a Newar caste of Shaiva renouncers, manages the temple and performs various services. While the shrine itself is off-limits to foreigners, the temple's presence signifies the deep-rooted cultural and religious practices of the Newar community, highlighting their historical connection to commerce and spirituality.
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