Krishna Mandir — Attraction in Lalitpur Metropolitan City

Krishna Mandir, Patan Durbar Square: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction The Krishna Mandir, located in the heart of Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal, is one of the most iconic and architecturally significant temples in the Kathmandu Valley. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is a masterpiece of Nepalese stone architecture and a symbol of the rich cultural and religious heritage of the Newar community. Patan Durbar Square itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Krishna Mandir stands as one of its crowning jewels.

Historical Background Construction: The Krishna Mandir was built in 1637 by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla of the Malla dynasty. According to legend, the king had a dream in which Lord Krishna and his consort Radha appeared, inspiring him to build the temple. Architectural Style: The temple is a prime example of Shikhara-style architecture, which is rare in Nepal. It is entirely constructed from stone, unlike many other temples in the valley that are made of wood and brick. Purpose: The temple was built to honor Lord Krishna and to celebrate his divine teachings, particularly the Bhagavad Gita. It also served as a symbol of the king's devotion and his desire to promote Vaishnavism in the region.

Architectural Features Structure: The temple is built on a three-tiered stone platform, with a central tower (Shikhara) that rises majestically above the square. The tower is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. Stone Carvings: The exterior of the temple is decorated with exquisite stone carvings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Pillars and Windows: The temple features 21 golden pinnacles and numerous stone pillars, each intricately carved with motifs of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures. The windows are latticed and allow light to filter into the inner sanctum. Inner Sanctum: The sanctum houses a beautiful idol of Lord Krishna, flanked by idols of Radha and Rukmini. The idol is adorned with jewelry and garments, and the sanctum is considered highly sacred.

Religious and Cultural Significance Worship: The temple is an active place of worship, especially during festivals like Krishna Janmashtami (the birthday of Lord Krishna) and other Hindu celebrations. Devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings. Festivals: The temple is a focal point during major festivals such as Indra Jatra, Dashain, and Tihar. During these times, the temple is beautifully decorated, and cultural performances are held in the square. Symbol of Unity: The Krishna Mandir is a symbol of religious harmony, as it attracts both Hindus and Buddhists. The Newar community, in particular, holds the temple in high regard.

Best Review of Krishna Mandir The Krishna Mandir is often described as a "stone poem" due to its breathtaking architecture and spiritual ambiance. Visitors and devotees alike praise the temple for its serene atmosphere, intricate craftsmanship, and historical significance. Many consider it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Nepalese culture, history, and spirituality. The temple's location in Patan Durbar Square adds to its charm, as it is surrounded by other historical monuments, palaces, and courtyards.

What Tourists Should Know Location: The Krishna Mandir is located in Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, about 8 km southeast of Kathmandu. Entry Fee: There is an entry fee for foreigners to enter Patan Durbar Square, which includes access to the Krishna Mandir. The fee is approximately NPR 1,000 (as of 2023). Best Time to Visit: The temple is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during festivals like Krishna Janmashtami (usually in August or September) or during the autumn and spring seasons when the weather...

Considered as one of the finest stone monument in Kathmandu, the Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square is made in Sikhara architectural style which is found commonly in Indian subcontinent. The temple was established in 1637 AD, as a copy of another Hindu temple of Lord Krishna present in Mathura in India, by Siddhi Narsimha Malla of Patan. The temple is completely made up of stone and the carvings are finer than the ones of other smaller Krishna temple at Patan Durbar Square which was built in 1723 by Yogamati, Siddhi Narsimha Malla’s great granddaughter.

Krishna Temple in Patan Durbar Square

Considered as one of the finest stone monument in Kathmandu, the Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square is made in Sikhara architectural style which is found commonly in Indian subcontinent. The temple was established in 1637 AD, as a copy of another Hindu temple of Lord Krishna present in Mathura in India, by Siddhi Narsimha Malla of Patan. The temple is completely made up of stone and the carvings are finer than the ones of other smaller Krishna temple at Patan Durbar Square which was built in 1723 by Yogamati, Siddhi Narsimha Malla’s great granddaughter.

The temple is an outcome of merger of two distinct styles, the solidly formed southern GuptaSikhara form and the open multi-storied style of Moghul. There are stone carvings of various gods and goddesses on the passage of the temple. The first floor of the temple consists of the stone images of Lord Krishna and his two consorts Radha and Rukmani and it is also the main area of worship. The second floor contains the image of Lord Shiva and it is said that the third floor which is empty now, used to contain a statue of Avalokitesvara.

The temple is entirely built with stone and does not contain wood or bronze for any kind of support. It is also said that the entire temple was built with one stone alone. The temple is a Hindu shrine so entrance to non-Hindus are not given, however, the glimpse from the courtyard itself gives a pleasant picture of the temple and what it holds inside.

The steps to the first floor of the temple are narrow and small and it is not common for the first timers to hit their head while climbing down the stairs. From the balcony of the first floor, one could look around the Durbar Square and the people queuing up for filling in their water pots at the nearby stone water sprout. The temple is adjacent to the Patan Museum because of which one could glance at the temple from the window of the museum. Viewing with a binocular from the museum window would give a clear view of the idols of Lord Krishna and his consorts enshrined in the temple. The temple is usually opened at all times and during the festival of KrishnaJanmastami, large numbers of devotees throng at the square to offer worships to Lord Krishna. The temple is beautifully decorated with colorful papers, lights and flowers during...

The Krishna Mandir in Lalitpur (Patan), Nepal, is a renowned Hindu temple celebrated for its historical, architectural, and spiritual significance. Here's a detailed overview:

Historical Background Construction: Built in 1637 CE by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla of the Malla dynasty, the temple was inspired by a divine vision. The king dreamt of Lord Krishna and his consort Radha, prompting him to erect the temple at the exact spot of his vision in Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Post-Victory Replica: After defeating a rival kingdom with Krishna's perceived divine intervention, the king constructed a replica of the temple in Sundari Chowk, a courtyard within the royal palace complex.

Architectural Marvel Style: Designed in the Shikhara architectural style, characterized by its towering spire resembling a mountain peak. This style is influenced by North Indian and Bengali temple designs. Structure: Three Stories: Each floor is dedicated to a different deity: First Floor: Main shrine of Lord Krishna, flanked by Radha and Rukmini. Second Floor: Dedicated to Lord Shiva (as a lingam). Third Floor: Honors Lokeshwar (Avalokiteshvara), a Bodhisattva in Buddhism. Decorations: Features 21 golden pinnacles, intricate stone carvings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and sculptures of Vishnu's avatars and Garuda (Vishnu's mount).

Cultural and Religious Significance Worship Practices: Daily rituals include 'puja' (offerings of flowers and mantras), arati (waving of lamps), and festivals like Krishna Janmashtami, which draws thousands of devotees. Symbol of Resilience: Severely damaged during the 2015 Nepal earthquake, the temple underwent extensive restoration and reopened in 2018, symbolizing Nepal’s cultural endurance.

Location and Accessibility Address: Situated in Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Bagmati Province, Nepal. Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. How to Reach: From Kathmandu: 30–45 minutes by car or taxi via the Ring Road; local buses also connect Kathmandu to Patan.

Key Features to Explore Carved Narratives: Exterior walls showcase Newari-script epics and 10 avatars of Vishnu. Garuda Statue: A freestanding Garuda sculpture stands guard at the entrance. Surroundings: Adjacent to other landmarks like the Vishwanath Temple and Bhimsen Temple within Patan Durbar Square.

This temple is not just a spiritual hub but a testament to Newar craftsmanship and Nepal’s syncretic Hindu-Buddhist heritage. Its blend of divine lore, architectural grandeur, and historical resilience makes it a must-visit for travelers and...