Kumbheshwar Temple | Lalitpur

The Kumbheshwor Temple is one of only two five-tiered pagoda temples in the Kathmandu Valley. Located in the northern part of Patan (Lalitpur), Nepal, it is a major complex dedicated to Shiva.

Visual Characteristics

The temple is defined by its verticality, featuring five diminishing tiers of wooden roofs covered in traditional clay tiles. The structure sits on a series of brick plinths. The exterior is characterized by dark, weathered wood carvings on the struts and windows, contrasting with the red brick of the main body. A large gilded metal pinnacle (Gajur) crowns the top.

Architectural Style & Materials

Style: Five-tiered Newari Pagoda.

Materials: Fired red brick, carved Sal wood, and gilded copper.

The Struts: The wooden supports for the five roofs are intricately carved with images of various Hindu deities.

Courtyard: The complex includes a large sunken water tank and several smaller shrines, including a temple dedicated to Bangalamukhi.

Historical Origin

The original two-story structure was built in 1392 by Jaya Bhim Malla. It was later expanded to five stories by King Srinivasa Malla in the 17th century. The temple is famous for its natural spring; the water is believed to originate from the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, located several days' trek north of the valley.

Key Highlights & Structures

Bangalamukhi Temple: Located within the same complex, this shrine is highly popular, especially on Thursdays, dedicated to one of the ten Mahavidyas.

Natural Spring (Hiti): A constant source of water used for ritual bathing and daily use by locals.

Nandi Statue: A large stone bull, the vehicle of Shiva, positioned facing the main temple entrance.

Annual Festival: During Janai Purnima, the temple's water tank is filled, and pilgrims bathe in the water believed to be from Gosaikunda.

Access & Logistics

Address: M8GG+HCJ, Lalitpur 44600, Nepal.

Location: 0.6km North of Patan Durbar Square.

Hours: Open 24 hours (Rituals primarily occur at dawn and dusk).

Entry: Generally free for the outer complex; the inner sanctum is restricted to Hindus.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Shade: The tiered roofs and surrounding stone rest houses (Patis) provide significant shade.

Connectivity: 4G/LTE signal is stable throughout the complex.

Proximity: The area is a hub for traditional Newari metal casting and woodcarving workshops.

Nearby Landmarks

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

Patan Durbar Square: 0.6km South.

Patan Museum: 0.6km South.

Ashoka Stupa (North): 0.5km North.