Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (The Golden Temple)

Kathmandu

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DESTINATIONS nepal kathmandu Do & See Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (The Golden Temple)

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (The Golden Temple)

Dating back as far as the 12th century, this unique Buddhist monastery gets its name from the many decorative gold plates covering much of the facade. It is located in Patan, to the south of the city, and the doorways and courtyards hold shrines dedicated to Buddhist gods and elaborate statues of the temple's mythical guardians.

Useful Information

Address: Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, Patan, Kathmandu
Phone: +977 1 5534595
Opening House: Daily 5am–5pm
More Info: The temple is also referred to as Hiranya Varna Mahavihar

Do & See

Kathmandu is a spiritual and cultural centre of great importance for both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, and as such, it boasts a dizzying wealth of stunning temples, shrines and sacred places that have been delighting visitors for years. The city is also home to a few genuinely interesting museums that record the tumultuous history of Nepal.

Amitabha Monastery Hike

Amitabha Monastery Hike

From Swayambhu to the Amitabha Monastery (in Nepali 'Seto Gumba' you will master an approximately 15 kilometre (9.3 miles) long, 4-5-hour hike, with beautiful panoramic views over the Kathmandu Valley and the chance to admire a breathtaking sunset or sunrise, if you time your journey right. For inexperienced hikers, it is recommendable to join …

Hike to Kakani

From Kathmandu to the small village Kakani — this hiking path leads you through the sub-alpine forests of Nepal. The trek itself is graded easy with only a slight incline. Keep in mind that the walk might take up to 5-6 hours, though. It is recommended to hire a local agency for secured transport …

Hanuman Dhoka

Dedicated to the Hindu monkey god, Hanuman, this impressive palace complex was constructed between the 4th and 8th centuries and then expanded considerably in the 17th. Spread over 5 acres, it contains the Royal Palace and many beautiful temples and courtyards. Unfortunately, the complex was severely damaged during the 2015 earthquake and reconstruction is …

Durbar Square

Kathmandu's central square is a breathtaking sight, packed with palaces, temples, shrines, and pagodas. The colours, sounds and smells are intoxicating as what seems like the whole city passes through on any given day. It is the centre of spiritual and cultural life in Kathmandu and cannot be missed. Kathmandu Durbar Square in front of …

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (The Golden Temple)

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (The Golden Temple)

Dating back as far as the 12th century, this unique Buddhist monastery gets its name from the many decorative gold plates covering much of the facade. It is located in Patan, to the south of the city, and the doorways and courtyards hold shrines dedicated to Buddhist gods and elaborate statues of the temple's …

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa

This temple, located northeast of central Kathmandu, is the largest stupa in the country and the most important Tibetan Buddhist temple outside Tibet. After the Chinese occupation of Tibet, thousands of Tibetan refugees fled to Nepal and settled in the area around this temple, making it an important haven for Tibetan …

Swayambhunath Temple

Swayambhunath Temple

West of the city of Kathmandu lies this cluster of temples, shrines and other religious structures, one of the oldest and holiest places in the whole country, revered by Buddhists and Hindus alike. Also known as Monkey Temple, because of its many resident monkeys, devotees and visitors flock here, often preferring to tackle the …

Garden of Dreams

Garden of Dreams

The ideal place to escape the hectic rhythm and constant bustle of the city, the Garden of Dreams provides a refuge for nature lovers. This small garden with its beautifully decorated gates, fountains and pavilions is a great place for a picnic and a spot of people watching, as young local couples often come …

Kumari Ghar

This red-brick building is the home of the Kumari — a young girl chosen as the city's 'living goddess', a charge she occupies until reaching puberty. Inside is a wonderful courtyard (considered by some to be the most beautiful in all of Nepal) where the Kumari herself may be seen from 9 am to …

National Museum of Nepal

National Museum of Nepal

Nepal's National Museum houses wonderful treasures, ranging from Buddhist art (statues, paintings and gigantic manuscripts) to stone, metal and terracotta statues. The highlight is the statue of Sukhavara Samvara, with 34 intricate arms and 10 faces. Another favourite is the collection of weapons belonging to national heroes such as Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder …

Panoramic Everest Flight

Panoramic Everest Flight

Of course, not every trip to Nepal must include the arduous and dangerous hike to the world's tallest mountain. However, you can embark on a mountain flight from Tribhuvan Airport for a panoramic encounter with the highest peaks on earth. Witness majestic views of Mt. Everest, as well as Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kantega, Lhotse …

Peace Gallery

The Nepalese civil war tore the country apart for ten years at the turn of the 21st century. The powerful photo exhibition at the Peace Gallery displays images of children affected by the violence and some of the brave people who endured. The photos are moving and extremely …

Kopan Monastery

Kopan Monastery

Just outside Kathmandu, in the village of Kapan, lies this Buddhist monastery. It is the perfect destination for a day-trip, or even a few nights in one of the guest rooms. The monastery is famed for its beautiful setting and peaceful, relaxing surroundings. Many visitors come here to attend courses in search of a …

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