Suryabinayak Ganesh Temple — Attraction in Suryabinayak Municipality

On the southern hill of Bhaktapur Nagara, there is one sacred temple named Suryabinayak. The temple is situated in the middle of the jungle. It is also called the elder deity among the four popular Binayak temples of Kathmandu Valley including Ashoka Binayak, Jal Binayak, Rakta Binayak and Suryabinayak itself.

About the naming of the temple, there is one darn adopted by all. In Hindu pilgrim, Surya means the sun who is also worshipped as a god and it is widely believed that the first ray of the sun directly touches the feet of this image of Binayak or the Ganesh. That’s why this Ganesh shrine is named Suryabinayak which means the merger form of the sun and Ganesh.

It takes only half an hour to reach over there from Bhaktapur Durbar Square. If you are not fit to walk enough, then you could choose to ride your own vehicle which will take only 10 min. Isn’t it great?

However, You have to ascend some stairs by yourself to reach the premises of Suryabinyak temple. From the start of the ascending stairs, you could notice temples of different deities until the entrance of the temple premises. Well, the courtyard of this temple contains a pati too which gives a tremendous view of the Bhaktapur City.

Along with the pati, there are statues of Suryabinayak himself, Shivalinga, Malla kings and the mount of Lord Ganesha, Mushak (mouse) over the premises of Suryabinayak temple. There is also a water conduit to wash out before worshipping (Puja).

The physical evidence of the temple states that it was built in the early 17th century. That somehow points to the fact that it was built during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla. Some rumours also state that it was built by King Vishnu Dev Barma while some say it is old enough to declare its age more than a thousand-year.

There is another interesting folk related to the creation of the forest including the arise of Suryabinayak himself. As per the priest of the temple, when Hanuman was hurrying up to transfer the hill full of medicinal herbs while he was unaware of one medicinal herb named Sanjibani Buti, a small piece of that hill fell and thus turns down as the hill of Surya Binayak. If you are well aware of the story of Ramayana, then you could probably be well aware of this incident as well. Coincidently, the hill of Suryabinayak is also full of medicinal herbs.

The temple of Mother Goddess Aligning with the temple of Suryabinayak temple, there is one more temple, a few steps above the main shrine of Suryabinayak temple. It is called the temple of the mother goddess. As per the locals, it is the temple of the mother of Lord Ganesh. That’s why it is also called Shiva Parvati temple (the parents of Lord Ganesh).

A strong belief stating that this temple blesses voiceless children with an oration made devotees reach over there. People still believe in this myth.

They say that children actually start to speak when they are left in the temple for some time. But they must cry while they are left alone otherwise, they won’t speak. Though this kinda belief is quite strange yet it is a belief that makes this temple...

The temple of Surya Binayak is situated in the Surya Binayak area, south of the ancient city of Bhaktapur.  It is one of the four most important temples of Lord Ganesh in the valley, other three being Chandra Binayak in Chabahil, Jal Binayak inChobar and Ashok Binayak in Kathmandu Durbar Square.

The devotees coming here mostly consist of parents with their ill children as this form of Ganesh in the temple is seen as a curing god, especially for deaf and dumb. Ganesh is one of the most popular Hindu gods who is worshiped at the beginning of any auspicious events and occasions. He is also considered as the god of literature, wisdom and worldly success and his head symbolizes the soul while his body symbolizes the earthly existence. The idol of Lord Ganesh in the temple is red also in color, as is the case in most of the temples around Nepal.



The temple of Surya Binayak is situated on top of a small hill overlooking the area. One need to climb some steps to reach the temple above and the both sides of the steps are covered with trees that looks like a forest, but not so dense. On the bottom of the steps, there are few shops that sell the elements required in worship, gifts and idols and images of the god. There is a gate at each end of the temple as well as each end of the steps. The temple area is large and wide and there are two pavilions opposite to the statue made for conducting ceremonies like marriage, bratabandha, etc. On the right side of the statue, there is a big bell whose handle is tied to an iron chain and locked on its base. There are also shelters for the priests to live in. On the two sides of the temple holding the idol, bells are hung by the devotees. The view from Surya Binayak is definitely wonderful and one feels the urge to take their camera out. Another interesting thing is the numerous mirrors offered to the god by the devotees hanging around the temple. On the right end of the temple, a gate leads to another way, towards the jungle and just a few steps down from the temple is a bathroom. The temple is housed on a two storey building with the temple on top and party palaces below. This side also has a few steps and sidewalks.

Though the main temple is small, the temple of Surya Binayak is one of the most beautiful temples of Lord Ganesh in Nepal and also the location of the temple has added to its beauty. The open are smells of fresh air, incense sticks and nature. It is one of the must-visit temples...

Nestled in the serene environs of Bhaktapur, the Suryabinayak Ganesh Temple stands as a revered testament to the divine grace of Lord Ganesh. This sacred site, situated in the Suryabinayak area, unfolds as an enduring beacon of spirituality, drawing pilgrims and devotees with its ancient aura and religious significance.

As one approaches the temple, the traditional architecture and intricate carvings immediately capture the eye, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. The temple's sanctity is palpable, and the atmosphere resonates with the collective prayers and devotions offered by those seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesh.

The main sanctum houses a mesmerizing idol of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed deity revered as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of good fortune. Devotees, with folded hands and bowed heads, offer prayers and supplications, creating an ambiance of spiritual reverence.

The temple's courtyard is often alive with the rhythmic sounds of bells, the fragrance of incense, and the colorful array of floral offerings. Pilgrims, locals, and visitors alike come together to partake in the sacred rituals and seek the benevolence of Suryabinayak Ganesh, believing in the deity's ability to bestow blessings and dispel challenges.

Beyond its religious significance, the temple serves as a focal point for cultural and social gatherings. Festivals and celebrations unfold in its proximity, fostering a sense of community and shared devotion. The vibrant energy surrounding the temple during these occasions creates an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.

In essence, the Suryabinayak Ganesh Temple is not merely a physical structure; it is a spiritual haven where faith converges with tradition. Its enduring presence and the continuous stream of devotees are a testament to the unwavering belief in the divine powers of Lord Ganesh. For those seeking solace, blessings, and a connection with the sacred, this temple remains a timeless destination of spiritual resonance and cultural...