Budanilkantha Temple, (Old Blue Throat)

Budanilkantha temple also translated as “Old Blue Throat”, is located in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu, a few kilometers away from ISKON. Dedicated to lord Vishnu, this temple is an open air temple, for a lot of visitors.The temple is situated on the base of the Shivapuri hills. This temple is also considered as one of the largest stone cravings in Nepal.

Ancient Story: 

According to one of the old stories, a farmer and his wife were plowing the field. While plowing, the wife once struck on a figure causing it to start soaking blood into the ground. They were stunned to see what was happening, later, it turned out the figure of the lost deity of Budhanilkantha, which was recovered and placed in its present position.

According to one story, a farmer and his wife once struck a figure while plowing the field, which caused it to start soaking blood into the ground. This turned out to be the figure of the lost deity of Budhanilkantha, which was recovered and placed in its present position. Another story states that, the statue was sculpted and brought to its current location in Kathmandu during the reign of the seventh-century monarch at that time.

Festival Importance.

The Haribodani Ekadashi Mela (Carnival) takes place in this site, one day in October-November month. The main reason why Hindus celebrate this festival is because it is considered as the celebration of the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his long sleep. 

Amazing Myth

A legend states that King Pratap Malla (1641–1674) had a prophetic vision. This vision resulted in him believing that the kings of Nepal would die if they visited the Budhanilkantha Temple. Nepali monarchs after King Pratap Malla have never visited the Temple in fear of the prophecy.

For Hikers:

If you are hiking to Shivapuri hills you could stop by and checkout this amazing temple. Also, if you are a tourists, and staying in park village resort.  For booking you could always contact Hidden Adventure in Nepal. This is one place close by to check out.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budhanilkantha_Temple

Pic Credit: https://www.instagram.com/rosancha/