Kathmandu Sri Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple- Nepal

Address

Kathmandu Sri Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple- Chitlang Thankot, Chandragiri hill Kathmandu District, Nepal 44600

Deity

Bhaleshwor Mahadev Amman: Parvati

Introduction

• Location: Bhaleshwor Mahadev is situated on Chandragiri Hill, in the southwestern part of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.
• Altitude: The temple is located at an altitude of 2,551 meters (8,333 feet) above sea level.
• Architectural Design: The temple was designed by architect Shankar Nath Rimal and is built on a historically and religiously significant site.
• Access: The temple is connected to the Kathmandu Valley via a cable car, making it accessible to visitors.

Puranic Significance

• Local Name: In Nepal Bhasa, Chandragiri Hill is referred to as GonDanda (where “Gon” means bhalay in Nepali, and “Danda” means hill). It is also known as Ichheshwor Mahadev.
• Age: The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and stands at the site where Bhaleshwor Mahadev is said to have manifested.
• Legend of Sumukha: The legend involves a low-ranking deity named Sumukha, who was cursed by Rambha, an angel, after he forced a kiss on her. To repent, Sumukha was advised by Sage Galab to pray before Bhaleshwor Mahadev. Eventually, his penance was rewarded, and he was reunited with Rambha.
• Folklore of Birupas: Another story from the Himvatkhanda tells of Birupas, a Brahmin suffering from leprosy due to past sins. After meeting Sage Nemuni, he was advised to visit 64 Shiva lingas to atone for his sins. It is said that during this pilgrimage, he visited Bhaleshwor Mahadev and was ultimately cured.
• Devotional Beliefs: Worshippers believe that praying at Bhaleshwor Mahadev can fulfill their wishes and grant them entry into Shivaloka (the abode of Lord Shiva) in the afterlife.

Beliefs

• Fulfilling Wishes: It is widely believed that devotees who worship at Bhaleshwor Mahadev will have their wishes granted and that they will attain a place in Shivaloka after death.

Festivals

• Major Celebrations: All festivals related to Lord Shiva are celebrated here, with Mahashivratri being particularly significant and celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Kalanki

Nearest Railway Station

Raxaul and Gorakhpur.

Nearest Airport

Kathmandu

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