Bhairabnath Temple | Bhaktapur

Information

Landmark: Bhairabnath Temple
City: Bhaktapur
Country: Nepal
Continent: Asia

Bhairabnath Temple, Bhaktapur, Nepal, Asia

The Bhairabnath Temple is a massive, three-story rectangular temple located in Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur. Dedicated to Bhairav, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, it stands directly adjacent to the taller Nyatapola Temple.

Architecture and Design

Structure: Unlike the typical square-based pagodas, this temple has a large rectangular base. It features three tiered roofs: the lower two are tiled, while the uppermost is covered in gilded copper.

Metalwork: The facade is heavily decorated with gilded copper, including a series of small bells and a long metal banner (Dhvaja) descending from the pinnacle to the first floor.

Guardian Statues: The entrance is guarded by two large stone lions.

Religious and Cultural Context

Deity: The temple houses the deity Bhairav. According to local legend, the deity's head was captured in Bhaktapur while he was visiting in human form. Because only the head is present, the temple is rectangular rather than square to accommodate the specific dimensions required for the ritual image.

Relationship with Nyatapola: The Nyatapola Temple was built specifically to pacify the wrathful energy of Bhairav. By installing the more powerful Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi in a taller structure nearby, King Bhupatindra Malla aimed to balance the spiritual forces of the square.

Bisket Jatra: The temple is the primary focal point for the Bisket Jatra (Nepali New Year). During this festival, the idol of Bhairav is placed in a massive chariot and pulled through the streets of Bhaktapur.

Logistics and Access

Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur 44800, Nepal.

Hours: Open 24 hours.

Entry: Access to the square is included in the general Bhaktapur Durbar Square ticket (1,800 NPR for foreign nationals). The inner sanctum is generally restricted to priests and Hindu devotees.

Location: Situated at the eastern end of Taumadhi Square.