Gorakhnath Mandir (Gorakhnath Temple), Kathmandu
Gorakhnath Mandir, nestled atop a hill in Kathmandu, is accessed through a winding stone staircase. Among the numerous temples in the area, Gorakhnath Mandir stands out for its distinctive architecture—a red-and-white structure with a striking white pagoda and a tall spire resembling a corn cob. A notable feature near the temple is a golden trident, which serves as a favored backdrop for photographs.
Historically, the temple is steeped in royal connections and spiritual significance. It was constructed by Jayasthiti Malla, a 4th-century king of Nepal, though some sources attribute its construction to Prithvi Narayan Shah. Dedicated to the revered Hindu saint Gorakhnath, the founder of Hatha yoga, the temple serves as a beacon for devotees of Hinduism, particularly attracting Brahmans and Chhetris.
The ambiance of Gorakhnath Mandir is one of serenity, embraced by nature with numerous trees and a resident population of macaques. The area is meticulously maintained, enhancing its status as a tranquil retreat. At night, the temple transforms with colorful lights, adding to its mystical allure.
In addition to the temple, the nearby Gorakhnath Cave is another point of interest, especially significant during Baisakh Purnima when a large fair is held, drawing many pilgrims and visitors. This period highlights the temple's role as a vital pilgrimage site within the Hindu community.
Gorakhnath Mandir, with its rich history, spiritual importance, and natural beauty, is not only a pivotal pilgrimage site but also a fascinating destination for both spiritual seekers and general tourists visiting Kathmandu.
Historically, the temple is steeped in royal connections and spiritual significance. It was constructed by Jayasthiti Malla, a 4th-century king of Nepal, though some sources attribute its construction to Prithvi Narayan Shah. Dedicated to the revered Hindu saint Gorakhnath, the founder of Hatha yoga, the temple serves as a beacon for devotees of Hinduism, particularly attracting Brahmans and Chhetris.
The ambiance of Gorakhnath Mandir is one of serenity, embraced by nature with numerous trees and a resident population of macaques. The area is meticulously maintained, enhancing its status as a tranquil retreat. At night, the temple transforms with colorful lights, adding to its mystical allure.
In addition to the temple, the nearby Gorakhnath Cave is another point of interest, especially significant during Baisakh Purnima when a large fair is held, drawing many pilgrims and visitors. This period highlights the temple's role as a vital pilgrimage site within the Hindu community.
Gorakhnath Mandir, with its rich history, spiritual importance, and natural beauty, is not only a pivotal pilgrimage site but also a fascinating destination for both spiritual seekers and general tourists visiting Kathmandu.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Gorakhnath Mandir (Gorakhnath Temple) on Map
Sight Name: Gorakhnath Mandir (Gorakhnath Temple)
Sight Location: Kathmandu, Nepal (See walking tours in Kathmandu)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Kathmandu, Nepal (See walking tours in Kathmandu)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Kathmandu, Nepal
Create Your Own Walk in Kathmandu
Creating your own self-guided walk in Kathmandu is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Kathmandu Introduction Walking Tour
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. With nearly 3 million residents in the metropolitan region, Kathmandu is also the largest city in the country. Kathmandu is notable for being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
The name "Kathmandu" comes from the name of the Kasthamanadap pavilion in Durbar Square. That name comes from the Sanskrit words for... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
The name "Kathmandu" comes from the name of the Kasthamanadap pavilion in Durbar Square. That name comes from the Sanskrit words for... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Pashupatinath Temple Complex Tour
Pashupatinath Temple Complex in Kathmandu is a sacred religious site that holds great significance for Hindus worldwide. The area in which it is located, near the Tribhuvan International Airport, is truly picturesque - surrounded by virgin jungle. This complex encompasses several notable locations, each contributing to its spiritual and cultural importance.
At the heart of the complex stands... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
At the heart of the complex stands... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Kathmandu's Street Markets Tour
Ardent shoppers – those keen on street markets in particular – will find Kathmandu a true heaven. In this city, street markets are where you can buy some exotic (and often good-quality) products, such as monk's robes, soft silks, woolen garments, artifacts, and more, at very good prices. The list of bargains is truly endless. Sadly, however, in Kathmandu, you are not allowed to buy... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles