Banglamukhi Temple | Lalitpur

The Shree Banglamukhi Temple is a highly significant Hindu shrine located within the Kumbheshwor Temple complex in Lalitpur, Nepal. It is dedicated to Banglamukhi, one of the ten Mahavidyas (Great Wisdom Goddesses) in Hinduism, representing the paralyzing power of the Goddess.

Visual Characteristics

The temple is a small, two-story structure finished with yellow and golden hues, symbolic of the Goddess Banglamukhi (the "Yellow One"). The shrine is characterized by its silver-plated doors and intricate metalwork. The surrounding courtyard is often filled with oil lamps (diyas) and devotees carrying yellow flowers and offerings.

Historical & Religious Significance

Banglamukhi is revered as the deity who can silence enemies and resolve legal or personal disputes. Unlike the multi-tiered pagoda of the main Kumbheshwor Shiva temple, this shrine serves as a focal point for Tantric worship. It is a "living" heritage site where ancient Newari rituals are practiced daily.

Key Highlights & Activities

Thursday Worship: Thursday is the most auspicious day for the Goddess. The temple experiences a massive influx of devotees on this day, with queues extending out into the northern streets of Patan.

Rituals: Devotees offer yellow items, including marigolds, yellow cloth, and sweets (laddu), as yellow is the preferred color of the Goddess.

Tantric Connection: The temple is a significant site for those following the Shaktism tradition.

Access & Logistics

Address: M8GG+G9V, Lalitpur 44600, Nepal.

Location: Northern section of the Kumbheshwor Temple complex, approximately 600 meters north of Patan Durbar Square.

Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.

Entry: Free access to the courtyard; the inner sanctum is generally reserved for Hindu worshippers.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Crowd Management: On Thursdays, the area is extremely crowded; visit early in the morning (before 7:00 AM) to avoid long wait times.

Connectivity: 4G/LTE signals are stable in the courtyard.

Proximity: Numerous small shops outside the temple gate sell ritual offerings and religious artifacts.

Nearby Landmarks

Kumbheshwor Temple: Immediate surrounds (same complex).

Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar): 0.4km South.

Patan Durbar Square: 0.6km South.

Ashoka Stupa (North): 0.5km North.