Wakupati Narayan Temple | Bhaktapur

Wakupati Narayan Temple is a two-tiered pagoda dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located on the eastern outskirts of the historic city of Bhaktapur.

Visual Characteristics

The temple is a traditional Newari pagoda with two roofs of gilded copper. It is characterized by its exceptionally clean and well-maintained courtyard. A prominent feature is the series of several golden Garuda statues (the mythical bird-man mount of Vishnu) mounted on high stone pillars facing the temple entrance.

Location & Access Logistics

Located at MCFP+8RW, Bhaktapur 44800, Nepal.

Transit: 15-minute walk east from Dattatreya Square.

Access: Located in a quieter residential area, accessible via narrow brick-paved streets.

Hours: Open 24 hours (active worship peaks at dawn and dusk).

Admission: Generally free; entry to this section of the city is covered by the standard Bhaktapur city entrance fee.

Historical Origin

The temple dates back to the Malla period, with inscriptions and structural elements suggesting its establishment or major renovation in the 17th century. It serves as one of the four cardinal Narayan temples protecting the Kathmandu Valley.

Key Highlights & Activities

Golden Garudas: A collection of metallic statues on pillars, ranging in size and age, offering a unique photographic subject.

Harvest Rituals: The temple is central to local agricultural life; the courtyard is frequently used by residents to dry and thresh grain during harvest seasons.

Stone Sculptures: The base of the temple and the surrounding shrines feature high-quality stone carvings of Vishnu's various incarnations.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The site is smaller and more intimate than the major squares. Basic shops selling ritual offerings and local snacks are situated nearby. 5G signal is stable.

Best Time to Visit

Early Morning: To observe local devotees performing puja (rituals).

Post-Harvest (Oct/Nov): To see the courtyard filled with golden grain, illustrating the temple's role in community life.

Facts & Legends

A technical oddity is the roof construction; the transition between the two tiers features unique timber joinery that has preserved the structure through multiple seismic events. Legend states that the temple was built to house an idol that was found by a farmer while plowing his field nearby, and the deity refused to be moved further into the city center.

Nearby Landmarks

Dattatreya Square – 0.5km West

Bramhayani Temple – 0.4km East

Hanumante River – 0.3km South

Changu Narayan Temple – 5km North