Buddhanilkantha, Kathmandu

Buddhanilkantha which literally means “old blue neck” offers unique pleasure for everyone. The statue is beautifully proportioned with serene and realistic expression of Lord Narayan.  Narayan is one of the many incarnations of Vishnu and is the creator of all life. As you climb the steps of the temple and reach the main temple complex, you are mesmerized by the beauty, quietness and holiness of the place. Besides Lord Narayan, you can also pay homage to Lord Laxmi, Saraswati and Shiva within the complex. Narayan lying in the water tank gives an impression of floating. Look closely and you will see coins and paper notes thrown by devotees. Four hands of Narayan hold the four symbols of Vishnu a chakra disc represents the mind, a conch shell represents the elements of the earth, a club represents the knowledge and a lotus represents the universe. Forehead of the statute is always covered with either cloth or flowers and is forbidden for anyone to see.  It is believed that Vishnu sleeps through the four monsoon months and wakes up at the end of the monsoon. During this time, a great festival takes place at Buddhanilkantha which runs for four days. Worshippers from all around the country gather at this time to celebrate the awakening of Vishnu from his long slumber. History has it that a farmer and his wife found the statue of deity while cultivating.