PASHUPATINATH
Situated 5 km east of Kathmandu city center, Pashupati literally means “Lord of Animals” and is considered to be the patron of Nepal. Pashupatinath is regarded as one of the holiest sites for Hindus all over the world.
Pashupatinath temple is a pagoda style two-tiered golden roof with exquisitely carved four silver doors containing in its sanctum
a phallic idol with four faces facing each direction and the other fifth one is looking up toward the zenith. A temple dedicated to Shiva was constructed at the present site by Licchavi King Supushpa Verma according to an ancient chronicle. However the present temple is claimed to have been built by King Bhupalendra Malla in 1697 A.D. Legend has it that a cow would frequently escape from its herds and offer milk on a Jyotirlinga ( phallic symbol of Shiva ) which denotes the point where the temple stands today. It is said that a certain cowherd much to his surprise found the self- generated Jyotirlinga ( phallic symbol of shiva) when he dug the spot where the cow would give milk. The spot immediately became the center of worship that been continued till today.
Legend also mentions that the Pandavas after the great Mahabharata battle were told that only by sighting Shiva would they be absolved of their sins and it was at this very spot that they saw the Lord. Hence, this most scared abode of Shiva, who is the God of the gods – Mahadeva – merits a visit by all Hindus, at least once in a lifetime, to be truly blessed and cleansed. It is believed that pilgrimage to the four dhams like Dwarika, Kedar, Rameshwor and Jaganath of India becomes meaningful only after a final darshan of Pashupatinath and by taking a holy dip in the Bagmati River and conducting a proper puja. There are temples of other Hindu deities in Pashupati premises like Bhairavnath, Vasuki nag, Parbati temple, Ram mandir,Vishwo rup,Goraknath, Kirateshwor temple and dozens of temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses.
A considerable part of the temple vicinity is converted to rest and prayer areas. Behind the temple on the banks of Bagmati is a crematorium for Hindus. It is the wish of every Hindu to be cremated on the bank of the Bagmati river near the temple. AT the other end of the Pashupatinath Temple area is the temple of Guheshwori dedicated to Shiva’s consort Parvati also known as Satidevi.There is also a deer park at the back of the temple across the Bagmati river. It is also interesting to watch the monkeys roam in and around the temple freely. One may also observe Sahus smeared with ashes and dressed in lion- cloths and the Hindus Brahmins offering Tika and blessing to the visitors. Pashupatinath attracts thousands of pilgrims on spring festival Maha Shivaratri ( Feb- March), the day dedicated to Shiva, Hari Talika/ Teej ( Aug- Sept.), Janai Purnima ( July-August) and all Mondays of the month of Shrawan (July-Aug).
In October 1979 Pashupati area was declared as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the temple is being managed by Pashupati Area Development Trust. The temple activities can be observed from the back of the temple.
SWAYAMBHUNATH
Located on a lovely little hillock, Swayambhunath Stupa lies about 4 km west of central Kathmandu. There are 360 steps leading all the way to the top commanding a magnificent view to the top commanding a magnificent view of Kathmandu valley and the brath-taking panoram of the snow-clad Himalaya range. The tradition in the Stupa follows the Vajrayana form of Buddhism which is a trantric variation of the Mahayana Buddhism ( the great vehicle). The stupa seem to have been constructed during the Licchavi Period. Religious and literally sources give numerous accounts of the establishment and the patronage of the Swayambhunath premises. It is also interesting to note that the stupa went a series of renovation during the Malla period in the medieval times with donations made by merchants, monks, pilgrims.and Buddhist followers.
As the ancient legend goes Kathmandu valley was a lake long time ago. Right in the center of this lake was a full blown lotus with the divine light atop. When Maha Manjushri a saint from China heard about this he came all the way from China to the valley. He cut through the southern hill of the valley with his divine sword. The cleft made by the sword immediately drained the entire lake water making the valley floor ready of habitation. Hundreds of votive shrines and other historical monuments built in and around this stupa speak a lot about the significance and antiquity of this famed stupa. The Stupa of Swayambhunath stands on a typically stylized lotus mandala base. The hemispherical part of the chaitya is made of brick and stone and on top of the hemispherical part lies the hermika which carries the eyes of Vairochana watching in all the directions and believed to have been painted in the Malla period. The stupa is also laden with the 13 gold plated spires which symbolizes the 13 stages to salvation. The spire is crowded by a golden umbrella supported by a pole from within the center. Devotees pour lime down the chaitya to cure illness of family members.
Harati Temple: It is two- tiered pagoda temple dedicated to Vajrayana deities were built by King Pratap Malla in the 17th century. Anantapura temple was named after his consort and both these temples represents the Shikhara style of architecture.
Bajra Dhatu Mandala : The Mandala depicts 12 animals representing the twelve months of the Tibetan year. The gilt Bajra installed by King Pratap Malla in the middle of the 17th century represents the sword Chandahasa of Manjushree.
Forms of Buddhas and their Consorts: The ten niches around the stupa represents the different forms of Buddha and their consorts. Clockwise representation are Aksobhya, Vairochana, Vajradhatvesvari, Mamaki Tara. Ratnasambhava, Pandara, Amitabha, Tara, Amogha Siddhi and Saptalochini.
The Vairochana is represented by the eyes painted on the hermika. Amitabha is the main deity of the Chaitya.
Five Elements of Life: Temples and sacred sites representing the five fundamental elements of nature are said to have been founded by Shantikar Acharya. The five elements of life represented in the premise of the Stupa are Vasupura ( earth), Nagapur (serpents, the lord of water).Shantipura or Akashpura ( space of sky), Vayupura ( air) and Agnipura (Fire).
Important Days to visit this Holy Site:
1. Buddha Purnima, the birthday of Lord Buddha which falls on the full moon day of Baishakh ( April-May).
2. Gunla, the holy Buddhist month according to Newari calendar (Aug-Sept, early morning).
3. Kojagrath Purnima (Sept-Oct), Samyak day of Magh (Jan-Feb) (once in every twelve years).
4. Lhosar
BOUDANATH
Boudanath, the biggest stupa of Nepal, is located 5 km east of central Kathmandu. The Stupa stands on a three-tiered platform raised over the crossed rectangles in order to bring out the yantra form.
The claims made in various religious and literary texts regarding the erection of the stupa is varied and conflicting. However, the stupa is believed to have been built in the 5th century A.D. during the reign of the Licchavi Kings.
As in other stupa architecture, this stupa also has vairochana at the center followed by Aksobhya, Ratna Sambhava, Amitabha and Amogha Siddhi in east, south, west and north directions respectively. Similarly, there are one hundred and eight small niches around the stupa accommodating the icons of Buddhas, Bodhisatavas and other female deities along with conjoint figures in erotic poses. Likewise, at the bottom level, it is surrounded with famous mantra Om Mani Padme Hum fixed in more than hundred and forty niches.
According to a very popular legen, in ancient time there was a poor girl in a Magat village of Nepal. She was called Jyajima and was very pious and charitable by nature. She had a deep desire to spread the faith of the Master and approached the King for a piece of land where she should build a stupa. Hence she built the stupa with the help of her four sons as it stands today.
According to another very popular legend, in the ancient days Kathmandu valley was under severe drought and this causes the King Dharma Dev much concern and anxiety. Finally, the King was advised by an astrologer that only the sacrifice of an ideal man with 32 virtues in front of the dry royal water could bring rainfall in the country. There were hardly anybody with such a great virtue except the King himself. So the following night he commanded his son to go the dry water spout near the royal palace at mid night and behead the person clad in white robe without looking at him. The Prince (Mandev-the Licchavi King) obeyed his father and to his great horror found that it was none other than his own father that he beheaded.
In order to atone for the heinous sin, he prayed to goddesses Vajrayogini who ordered him to erect a stupa and practice
rigorous penance. He practiced great penance in Gumvihar where Vajraogini rests and it was due to his great devotion there sprang out the present stupa of Boudanath.
Oldfield an Orientalist has written that a Lama from Tibet had died on his pilgrimage to Nepal and the stupa was erected with his relics and named it as Khasa Chaitya after his name.
During Buddha Jayanti ( birthday of Lord Buddha, April-May) on the full moon day, a religious procession takes place with the icons of Buddha on a chariot. During Lhosar festival (Jan-Feb) the pilgrims worship the Buddhist deities, light the incense and butter lamp day and night. On the full moon day of Janai Purnima (scared thread festival, Aug- Sept) the stupa is decorated with prayer flags and lights. Every twelve years a special ceremony is also observed denoting the fact that it took 12 years to built the stupa. Some Buddhist texts also mentions thast it took 2555 days (7 years) to complete the construction of the stupa. Dance, musical instruments, chant and hyms are performed to mark the event with great festivity.
The stupa along with the monasteries are centers of learning, cultural activities, prayers and meditation.
CHANGU NARAYAN
Located on a magnificent hill top commanding a fantastic view of Kathmandu valley, Changu Narayan – the temple of Lord Vishnu – lies 6 km north of Bhaktapur. The temple is full of magnificient art works in metal and wood. In fact, it is one of the finest examples of Nepalese architecture. The first epigraphic evidence of Nepalese history found in the temple premises during the reign of the Lichhavi King Mandeva dating back to 464 A.D. shows that Changu had already been established as a sacred site in the 3rd century A.D. The present structure was probably constructed in the 17th century, though older elements have been incorporated during the restoration. The pagoda style temple has several masterpieces of 5th and 12th century Nepalese art.
Some of the important sculptures here are:
1. Viswo Roop- Lord Vishnu in his all pervasive universal form Vishwo roop represented in a serpant bed- the- symbol of the endless water. This sculpture dates back to 8th century A.D.
2. Vishnu Vikaranta- Lord Vishnu in his most powerful form measuring the space by his feet. The stone bas-relief images is dated back to 8th century A.D.
3. Vishnu mounted in his vehicle Garuda- the mythical man bird.
4. Nr-singha Vishnu in his half human and half lion’s form.
The myth behind the conception of the Changu Narayan Temple portrays the religious significance and importance of the place. According to a legend, Lord Vishnu beheaded a Brahmin thinking it to be a demon and only discovered it later that he had committed a heinous crime. He then wandered on earth on his mount, the ‘Garuda’ eventually descending on the hill at Changu. There he lived in anonymity, surviving on milk stolen from a cow belonging to a hermit sage called Sudharshan. When Sudharsan noticed about the stolen milk, he attacked and beheaded Lord Vishnu which freed Lord Vishnu from his sins. Ever since that day, the site has been held sacred and the temple has been revered.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
mounteverest
BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE
Bhaktapur meaning the city of devotees founded by King Ananda Dev in 1197 A.D. according to the Gopal Raj Vamsabali even though the existence of the city could be traced back to the Licchavi period (195-750 A.D.). There are many monuments including pagodas, palaces, shikhara style monuments, courtyards, and Buddhists shrines and monasteries. The Durbar Square was the seat of the Malla Kings and the present structures were erected from the 12th kilometers away from Kathmandu city.
The Lion Gate: The two lions symbolizes the elements of power and protection and was installed on its either sides during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1696 A.D. This gate has beautiful stone statues of Bhairav – the fierce form of Shiva and Durga – manifestation of Shakti – the female power.
Golden Gate: The Golden Gate was built by King Ranjit Malla in 1754 A.D. which serves as an entrance to the Taleju complex.
Four Pilgrimage sites: You can also observe the four dhams ( pilgrimage sites) of Jagannath, Kedarnath, Rameshwor and Badrinath just at the entrance. It is replication of holy sites revered in India.
Stone Column: King Bhupatindra Malla seated atop on a stone pillar in an attitude of prayer to Taleju Bhawani. He was a great builder, a scholar and an artist.
55windows Palace: This is the supreme wooden architectural structure dominating the entire Durbar Square. This magnificent edifice was originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and embellished later by Bhupatindra Malla in 17th century.
Vastala Temple: It was built on Shikhara style completely of stones by Jaya Ranjit Malla the 17th century A.D. temple is dedicated to a mother goddess Durga. On the lower flank of the temple, there is a small bell known as ‘barking bell’ because dogs bark and whine at the sound of the bell. In those days the bell was used as an alarm to alert the people during emergency.
Yakcheswor Mahadev: This temple is replication of Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. It was built by King Yakshya Malla in 1480 A.D. It shows the importance of Pashupati temple in the spiritual life of the people of Bhaktapur and it was built so that people from Bhaktapur may avoid the difficulty of going to main Pashupati in Kathmandu for offering prayers.
A folklore mentions that the king who was a great devotee of Lord Pashupati dreamt the lord who told him to built a temple for him so that he could move into it. He obeyed the divine command and thus the temple was built.
Taumadi Square
Nyatapola: The temple was founded by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 A.D. Nyatapola in Newari means five-tiered temple symbolizing the five elements of Nature. The temple is dedicated to
Goddess Siddhi Laxmi – a Tantric deity representing the most powerful female force. Legend goes that the temple was built by King on the advice of the astrologers to pacify god Bhairav and maintain a harmonious balance of male and female principle. Nyatapole and Bhairav temples signify the co-existence of male and female energy pervading the earth.
The temple stands above the five plinth and rises above 30 m above the top plinth. Pairs of the animals and robust men flanked the stairway. It is believed that every pair of guardian is ten times more powerful than the pair immediately below. This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal.
Bhairav Nath Temple: This temple of Bhairav – the ferocious form of Shiva – was originally built by Jagat Jyoti Malla as a one storeyed temple and later King Bhupatindra Malla added two more stories to it iin 1718 A.D. According to al legend Vishwanath, a manifestation of Shiva once visited Bhaktapur to observe Bisket Jatra. When the locals recognize him they beheaded him in order to retain him permanently in the temple. It is because of this reason the central image of Bhairav temple has the head of Bhairav without the body and is taken on a chariot once during the Bisket Jatra which is the biggest festival of the town held in April.
Teel Mahadev Narayan Temple: South from Nyatopola lies this temple dedicated to lord Vishnu built in the 12th century A.D. a disc, lotus, conch-shell and a mace-four emblems of lord Vishnu are placed on Pillars to the sides of the entrance.
Dattatreya Square
Dattatreya Temple: Dattatreya Temple, originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and renovated by his son Vishwa Malla in 1458 A.D. is the only temple in Nepal that is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya – the combined incarnation of the three supereme gods- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entrance of the temple is guarded by two robust men and in a stone pillar is placed a conch and disc like weapon dedicated to Vishnu. A bronze statue of garuda the messenger of Vishnu is also erected on a stone column.
Bhimsen Temple: To the west of the Dattatreya temple is the Bhimsen temple built in 1605 A.D. Lord Bhimsen is the second oldest of the five Pandavas of the Mahabharat epic. In the olden days people had to walk to Tibet or India of trade and pilgrimage, so one had to be naturally strong to embark on an ardrous Journey. In order to gain strength people prayed to Lord Bhimsen and the tradition continues till today. The area also has two bronze and wood carving museums and the famous window peacock – an original masterpiece of Nepali wood work.
Pujari Math: The Pujari math literally translated as the Priest’s house now houses the wood carving museum. The Math built by King Yakshya Malla in the 15th century was used for storing donations and contributions. The world famous peacock window of the 15th century is situated on the eastern face of this house. One can observe intricately carved images of gods and goddess on the struts of this monuments.
Bhaktapur meaning the city of devotees founded by King Ananda Dev in 1197 A.D. according to the Gopal Raj Vamsabali even though the existence of the city could be traced back to the Licchavi period (195-750 A.D.). There are many monuments including pagodas, palaces, shikhara style monuments, courtyards, and Buddhists shrines and monasteries. The Durbar Square was the seat of the Malla Kings and the present structures were erected from the 12th kilometers away from Kathmandu city.
The Lion Gate: The two lions symbolizes the elements of power and protection and was installed on its either sides during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1696 A.D. This gate has beautiful stone statues of Bhairav – the fierce form of Shiva and Durga – manifestation of Shakti – the female power.
Golden Gate: The Golden Gate was built by King Ranjit Malla in 1754 A.D. which serves as an entrance to the Taleju complex.
Four Pilgrimage sites: You can also observe the four dhams ( pilgrimage sites) of Jagannath, Kedarnath, Rameshwor and Badrinath just at the entrance. It is replication of holy sites revered in India.
Stone Column: King Bhupatindra Malla seated atop on a stone pillar in an attitude of prayer to Taleju Bhawani. He was a great builder, a scholar and an artist.
55windows Palace: This is the supreme wooden architectural structure dominating the entire Durbar Square. This magnificent edifice was originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and embellished later by Bhupatindra Malla in 17th century.
Vastala Temple: It was built on Shikhara style completely of stones by Jaya Ranjit Malla the 17th century A.D. temple is dedicated to a mother goddess Durga. On the lower flank of the temple, there is a small bell known as ‘barking bell’ because dogs bark and whine at the sound of the bell. In those days the bell was used as an alarm to alert the people during emergency.
Yakcheswor Mahadev: This temple is replication of Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. It was built by King Yakshya Malla in 1480 A.D. It shows the importance of Pashupati temple in the spiritual life of the people of Bhaktapur and it was built so that people from Bhaktapur may avoid the difficulty of going to main Pashupati in Kathmandu for offering prayers.
A folklore mentions that the king who was a great devotee of Lord Pashupati dreamt the lord who told him to built a temple for him so that he could move into it. He obeyed the divine command and thus the temple was built.
Taumadi Square
Nyatapola: The temple was founded by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 A.D. Nyatapola in Newari means five-tiered temple symbolizing the five elements of Nature. The temple is dedicated to
Goddess Siddhi Laxmi – a Tantric deity representing the most powerful female force. Legend goes that the temple was built by King on the advice of the astrologers to pacify god Bhairav and maintain a harmonious balance of male and female principle. Nyatapole and Bhairav temples signify the co-existence of male and female energy pervading the earth.
The temple stands above the five plinth and rises above 30 m above the top plinth. Pairs of the animals and robust men flanked the stairway. It is believed that every pair of guardian is ten times more powerful than the pair immediately below. This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal.
Bhairav Nath Temple: This temple of Bhairav – the ferocious form of Shiva – was originally built by Jagat Jyoti Malla as a one storeyed temple and later King Bhupatindra Malla added two more stories to it iin 1718 A.D. According to al legend Vishwanath, a manifestation of Shiva once visited Bhaktapur to observe Bisket Jatra. When the locals recognize him they beheaded him in order to retain him permanently in the temple. It is because of this reason the central image of Bhairav temple has the head of Bhairav without the body and is taken on a chariot once during the Bisket Jatra which is the biggest festival of the town held in April.
Teel Mahadev Narayan Temple: South from Nyatopola lies this temple dedicated to lord Vishnu built in the 12th century A.D. a disc, lotus, conch-shell and a mace-four emblems of lord Vishnu are placed on Pillars to the sides of the entrance.
Dattatreya Square
Dattatreya Temple: Dattatreya Temple, originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and renovated by his son Vishwa Malla in 1458 A.D. is the only temple in Nepal that is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya – the combined incarnation of the three supereme gods- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entrance of the temple is guarded by two robust men and in a stone pillar is placed a conch and disc like weapon dedicated to Vishnu. A bronze statue of garuda the messenger of Vishnu is also erected on a stone column.
Bhimsen Temple: To the west of the Dattatreya temple is the Bhimsen temple built in 1605 A.D. Lord Bhimsen is the second oldest of the five Pandavas of the Mahabharat epic. In the olden days people had to walk to Tibet or India of trade and pilgrimage, so one had to be naturally strong to embark on an ardrous Journey. In order to gain strength people prayed to Lord Bhimsen and the tradition continues till today. The area also has two bronze and wood carving museums and the famous window peacock – an original masterpiece of Nepali wood work.
Pujari Math: The Pujari math literally translated as the Priest’s house now houses the wood carving museum. The Math built by King Yakshya Malla in the 15th century was used for storing donations and contributions. The world famous peacock window of the 15th century is situated on the eastern face of this house. One can observe intricately carved images of gods and goddess on the struts of this monuments.
mounteverest
PATAN DURBAR SQUARE
Patan is also known as Lalitpur which means the city of arts. It is located across the river Bagmati which is 5 km south of central Kathmandu. This city founded in 3rd century A.D. by King Veera Dev has a distinction of being the home of the finest crafts and is considered oldest of all three cities of Kathmandu valley. Most of the monuments in this square date back to the medevial Malla period from 16th to 18th century and the monuments in the area are mostly credited to King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla, Shri Niwas Malla and Yog Narendra Malla.
Main Chowks ( Courtyards): Patan Durbar Square consists of three main courtyards – Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and mani Keshab Narayan Chowk which houses the Patan Museum. The Sundari Chowk built by King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla in 1647 A.D. contains the master piece of stone sculpture known as the Royal Bath and was used for performing ritual bathing.
Bhimsen Temple: The three- storied temple of Bhimsen located on the extreme north of the square with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside is very popular amongst the local merchant and trader communities. There are curio shops around the temple.
Vishwa Nath Temple: This two- storied temple dedicated to Shiva located near the Bhimsen temple is built in Pagoda style and houses a large phallic of Shiva and the temple is guarded by two elephants.
Krishna Mandir: The temple of Lord Krishna built in the 17th century by King Siddhi Narshingh Malla is the first specimen of Shikhara style tempe entirely made of stone. I t is the only temple in Nepal with 21 golden pinnacles and contains engraved scenes from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Stone Column: The Stone Column of King Yog Narendra Malla in a praying posture to goddess Taleju is protected by a snake above his head and a bird is seen seated on the snake. Legend says that the King would be remembered and remain immortal as long as the bird does not fly from there. It is because of this believe that a window of the nearby palace is kept open for the spirit of the King to come and rest in the palace. A stone laocated nearby with the Garuda atop facing the Krishna Temple is another typical example of Nepali stone workmanship.
Harishankar Temple: This three-tier temple built iin 1704 A.D. is dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. This temple was built by the wives of King Yoga Narendra Malla after his death in his memory because of which this temple is also known as Sati temple.
Taleju Temple: There are prominent temples like the three- storied octangonal temple of Taleju Bhawani and Digu Taleju – the five Storied temple of the protective deities built by King Siddhi Narshingha Malla in 17th century. These temples are unique example of craftsmanship in wood.
Golden Temple: The tree- storied golden pagoda was built by King Bhaskar Verma in the 12th century and contains image of Amoghpash Lokeshwor, large prayer wheel and paintings of Buddha. The temple is located at a walking distance north from the main square.
Kumbheshwor: This five- storied temple dedicated to Shiva was built during the reign of King Jayastithi Malla in the late 14th century. It is few minutes walk north from the main square. A religious fair is held during Janai Purnima (August). There is also a famous Banglamukhi temple nearby.
Mahaboudha: Thousand images of Buddha are found in the temple made of fine quality bricks. The temple was constructed in the 15th century by an architech named Avay Raj and is located eastwards within walking distance from the main square.
There are many other shrines, sculptures, stupas scattered in an around the square and provide a unique experience to visitors and art lovers.
Patan is also known as Lalitpur which means the city of arts. It is located across the river Bagmati which is 5 km south of central Kathmandu. This city founded in 3rd century A.D. by King Veera Dev has a distinction of being the home of the finest crafts and is considered oldest of all three cities of Kathmandu valley. Most of the monuments in this square date back to the medevial Malla period from 16th to 18th century and the monuments in the area are mostly credited to King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla, Shri Niwas Malla and Yog Narendra Malla.
Main Chowks ( Courtyards): Patan Durbar Square consists of three main courtyards – Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and mani Keshab Narayan Chowk which houses the Patan Museum. The Sundari Chowk built by King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla in 1647 A.D. contains the master piece of stone sculpture known as the Royal Bath and was used for performing ritual bathing.
Bhimsen Temple: The three- storied temple of Bhimsen located on the extreme north of the square with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside is very popular amongst the local merchant and trader communities. There are curio shops around the temple.
Vishwa Nath Temple: This two- storied temple dedicated to Shiva located near the Bhimsen temple is built in Pagoda style and houses a large phallic of Shiva and the temple is guarded by two elephants.
Krishna Mandir: The temple of Lord Krishna built in the 17th century by King Siddhi Narshingh Malla is the first specimen of Shikhara style tempe entirely made of stone. I t is the only temple in Nepal with 21 golden pinnacles and contains engraved scenes from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Stone Column: The Stone Column of King Yog Narendra Malla in a praying posture to goddess Taleju is protected by a snake above his head and a bird is seen seated on the snake. Legend says that the King would be remembered and remain immortal as long as the bird does not fly from there. It is because of this believe that a window of the nearby palace is kept open for the spirit of the King to come and rest in the palace. A stone laocated nearby with the Garuda atop facing the Krishna Temple is another typical example of Nepali stone workmanship.
Harishankar Temple: This three-tier temple built iin 1704 A.D. is dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. This temple was built by the wives of King Yoga Narendra Malla after his death in his memory because of which this temple is also known as Sati temple.
Taleju Temple: There are prominent temples like the three- storied octangonal temple of Taleju Bhawani and Digu Taleju – the five Storied temple of the protective deities built by King Siddhi Narshingha Malla in 17th century. These temples are unique example of craftsmanship in wood.
Golden Temple: The tree- storied golden pagoda was built by King Bhaskar Verma in the 12th century and contains image of Amoghpash Lokeshwor, large prayer wheel and paintings of Buddha. The temple is located at a walking distance north from the main square.
Kumbheshwor: This five- storied temple dedicated to Shiva was built during the reign of King Jayastithi Malla in the late 14th century. It is few minutes walk north from the main square. A religious fair is held during Janai Purnima (August). There is also a famous Banglamukhi temple nearby.
Mahaboudha: Thousand images of Buddha are found in the temple made of fine quality bricks. The temple was constructed in the 15th century by an architech named Avay Raj and is located eastwards within walking distance from the main square.
There are many other shrines, sculptures, stupas scattered in an around the square and provide a unique experience to visitors and art lovers.
Friday, April 15, 2011
mounteverest
WORLD HERITAGE SITES OF NEPAL
There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) in Nepal of these four WHS, - twp are in cultural category and two WHS fall in the natural category.
In the cultural category, the seven monuments of the Kathmandu valley (together counted as one WHS) and Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord Buddha – are included whereas the other two WHS in the natural grouping are the Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha National Park. The Kathmandu Valley WHS comprises of three historical palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Two Buddhist stupas- Swayambhu and Boudanath, and two Hindu temples Pashupati and Changu Narayan. The densest concentration of these heritages sites can be found here owing to the cultural and political importance of the Kathmandu valley. All these monuments were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in October 1979. Most of the places listed in the WHS were revered for thousands of years and there has been a series of contributions and renovations in the form of construction of temples, stupas and palaces over the centuries by different rulers and kings. The WHS of Nepal are an expression of the finest sensibility of the history and lifestyle of Nepal and are a legacy of the Nepalese people to human civilization.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The Kathmandu Valley civilization is around 3000 years old. It has been claimed that the valley was a large pond in the early geological period and it was only when the pond was drained that the valley was ready for human settlement. There is also a legend which reinforces the story that a certain Bodhistav called Manjushree came to Kathmandu Valley and cut the gorge in Chobar with his flaming sword and drained the water out of the valley making it ready for human settlement.
The fertile land supported large settlements, and over the centuries different dynasties that ruled the valley patronized an urban civilization with its rich cultural heritage. Politically the present days Nepal was divided into petty principalities and the earliest ruling class of Nepal were the Gopalas, Mahispalas and Kiratas dynastries who were followed by Licchavi ( 185-750 A.D.) The Lichhavi period is known as the classical period of Nepalese history because it was during this period that art and architecture began to take shape. Trade and crafts flourished under them, and they built magnificent temples, palaces and monuments.
But it was only under the later Malla period and the early Shah period from 14th to the 18th centuries the valley’s fabulous cities with their exquistic pagoda, shikhara and stupa architecture, ornate palaces and artistic temples came to take shape in the form that we see it today.
However the present day neo-classical buildings were built only during the second half of the 19th century ( Rana Regime) with Nepal’s first contact with the western countries.
Sculptures, wood craft and stone works were the medium and means on which the expert hand and imagination of the artistis acted on with impressive originally and ingenuity.
This historical monuments of the world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley are marked by the presence of three prominent architectural style namely the Pagoda, Shikhara and the Stupa style. The pagodas are multi-tiered monuments tapering towards the struts. These ubiquitous wooden historical structures are supplement by bronze works and stone sculptures together forming the squares and palaces with profuse representation of images of gods, goddesses, demons, beasts, mythical figures, kings and the ordinary human beings engaged in their day-to-day activities.
KATHMANDU DUBAR SQUARE
Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in the heart of the Kathmandu city. The locals know this area by its old name Hanuman Dhoka- an ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty. The Royal Palace during medival times were not merely for Royal activities but also used as the center of administration, cultural activities and festivals.
The historical buildings and temples in the area were erected from the time of King Ratna Malla ( 1484-1520 AD) to Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah ( 1875-1911 AD) covering the Malla, Shah and Rana period of Nepalese Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red next to the main entrance ( the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.
Prominent Monuments:
Taleju Temple: The temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1562 A.D. was dedicated to the royal deity of the Malla kings. Resting on a 12 stage plinth, the temple is 36.6 meters high. The temple is opened to the public just once in a year during Dashain festival ( Sept-Oct).
Krishna Temple: This octagonal temple dedicated to Lord Krishna was built in 1649 A.D. by Pratap Malla in memory of his two dead queens. There is a mention in the epigraph that the temple contains the statue of the King and his queens representing as Lord Krishna and his consorts.
Jagannath Temple: The image of Jagannath was installed in 1563 A.D. during the reign of Mahendra Malla and the temple is famous for erotic carvings.
Stone Column: The Stone Column represents the statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Goddess Taleju- The Royal Family Deity.
Degutalle Temple: A Tantric goddess representing the family deity of the Malla kings is enriched in the temple and access is restricted to visitors. The temple lies opposite the Stone Column and was built in 1671 A.D. by King Shiva Singh and later renovated by King Pratap Malla.
Hanuman Statue: Kneeling Hanuman, the monkey god, seated on a stone pedestal and flanked by a pair of lions symbolizes strength and protection against all possible threats. The Hanuman pedestal was erected by King Pratap Malla in 1672 A.D.
Shiva-Parvati Temple: The divine couple Shiva and his consort Parvati look out from the central window of the first floor. The temple was built during the reign of King Bahadur Shah.
Big Bell: The bell erected in 1797 A.D. by King Rana Bahadur Shah is rung only when worship is being offered in Degutalle temple situated nearby.
Kal Bhairav: Shiva in his ferocious form is known as Bhairav. This is one of the largest image of Bhairav and was erected by King Pratap Malla.
Maju Dewal: This temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the late 17th century by Queen Mother Riddhi Laxmi and rests on a nine plinth base dominating the square and commanding a good view of the area.
Trilokya Mohan Narayan: This Vishnu temple of late 17th century near the Kumari Ghar, was built on a five stage plinth by King Prathibendra in memory of his deceased brother. There is a kneeling image of Garuda – the vehicle of Vishnu, near the temple. During Indrajatra ( Chariot festival) large crowd gather here to see the ten incarnations of Vishnu enacted on the pedestal.
Kumari Ghar: Kumari Ghar built in 1757 A.D. by King Prakash Malla is the house of the living goddess “Kumari” who is believed to be the incarnation of goddess Taleju, the protective deity. Kumari often provides her blessing from the window to the visitiors.
Basantapur Durbar: The Basantapur Durbar also known as Nau-talle durbar was built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1770 A.D. Alongside there are other high standing pagodas known as Kirtipur Tower, Bhaktapur Tower and Lalitpur Tower.
Gaddi Baithak: This neoclassical building was built by Chandra Shumsher in 1908 A.D. during the reign of King Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah. Such kind of buildings were constructed because of Nepalese with the west in the second half of the 18th century.
Kasthamandap: This 12th century wooden building is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree hence Kathmandu obtains its name from this historical building, Kasthamandap. The building was used for public gathering during those days. The central image in the building consists of Gorakhanath and there are miniature temples of four Ganeshas.
Ashok Vinayak: This temple dedicated to the elephant god Ganesha is revered both by the Hindus and Buddhists alike and is one of the most important shrine in the valley.
Dhansa: This temple was built in 1673 A.D. by Pratap Mala to start a new masked dance of Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu.
There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) in Nepal of these four WHS, - twp are in cultural category and two WHS fall in the natural category.
In the cultural category, the seven monuments of the Kathmandu valley (together counted as one WHS) and Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord Buddha – are included whereas the other two WHS in the natural grouping are the Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha National Park. The Kathmandu Valley WHS comprises of three historical palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Two Buddhist stupas- Swayambhu and Boudanath, and two Hindu temples Pashupati and Changu Narayan. The densest concentration of these heritages sites can be found here owing to the cultural and political importance of the Kathmandu valley. All these monuments were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in October 1979. Most of the places listed in the WHS were revered for thousands of years and there has been a series of contributions and renovations in the form of construction of temples, stupas and palaces over the centuries by different rulers and kings. The WHS of Nepal are an expression of the finest sensibility of the history and lifestyle of Nepal and are a legacy of the Nepalese people to human civilization.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The Kathmandu Valley civilization is around 3000 years old. It has been claimed that the valley was a large pond in the early geological period and it was only when the pond was drained that the valley was ready for human settlement. There is also a legend which reinforces the story that a certain Bodhistav called Manjushree came to Kathmandu Valley and cut the gorge in Chobar with his flaming sword and drained the water out of the valley making it ready for human settlement.
The fertile land supported large settlements, and over the centuries different dynasties that ruled the valley patronized an urban civilization with its rich cultural heritage. Politically the present days Nepal was divided into petty principalities and the earliest ruling class of Nepal were the Gopalas, Mahispalas and Kiratas dynastries who were followed by Licchavi ( 185-750 A.D.) The Lichhavi period is known as the classical period of Nepalese history because it was during this period that art and architecture began to take shape. Trade and crafts flourished under them, and they built magnificent temples, palaces and monuments.
But it was only under the later Malla period and the early Shah period from 14th to the 18th centuries the valley’s fabulous cities with their exquistic pagoda, shikhara and stupa architecture, ornate palaces and artistic temples came to take shape in the form that we see it today.
However the present day neo-classical buildings were built only during the second half of the 19th century ( Rana Regime) with Nepal’s first contact with the western countries.
Sculptures, wood craft and stone works were the medium and means on which the expert hand and imagination of the artistis acted on with impressive originally and ingenuity.
This historical monuments of the world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley are marked by the presence of three prominent architectural style namely the Pagoda, Shikhara and the Stupa style. The pagodas are multi-tiered monuments tapering towards the struts. These ubiquitous wooden historical structures are supplement by bronze works and stone sculptures together forming the squares and palaces with profuse representation of images of gods, goddesses, demons, beasts, mythical figures, kings and the ordinary human beings engaged in their day-to-day activities.
KATHMANDU DUBAR SQUARE
Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in the heart of the Kathmandu city. The locals know this area by its old name Hanuman Dhoka- an ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty. The Royal Palace during medival times were not merely for Royal activities but also used as the center of administration, cultural activities and festivals.
The historical buildings and temples in the area were erected from the time of King Ratna Malla ( 1484-1520 AD) to Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah ( 1875-1911 AD) covering the Malla, Shah and Rana period of Nepalese Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red next to the main entrance ( the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.
Prominent Monuments:
Taleju Temple: The temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1562 A.D. was dedicated to the royal deity of the Malla kings. Resting on a 12 stage plinth, the temple is 36.6 meters high. The temple is opened to the public just once in a year during Dashain festival ( Sept-Oct).
Krishna Temple: This octagonal temple dedicated to Lord Krishna was built in 1649 A.D. by Pratap Malla in memory of his two dead queens. There is a mention in the epigraph that the temple contains the statue of the King and his queens representing as Lord Krishna and his consorts.
Jagannath Temple: The image of Jagannath was installed in 1563 A.D. during the reign of Mahendra Malla and the temple is famous for erotic carvings.
Stone Column: The Stone Column represents the statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Goddess Taleju- The Royal Family Deity.
Degutalle Temple: A Tantric goddess representing the family deity of the Malla kings is enriched in the temple and access is restricted to visitors. The temple lies opposite the Stone Column and was built in 1671 A.D. by King Shiva Singh and later renovated by King Pratap Malla.
Hanuman Statue: Kneeling Hanuman, the monkey god, seated on a stone pedestal and flanked by a pair of lions symbolizes strength and protection against all possible threats. The Hanuman pedestal was erected by King Pratap Malla in 1672 A.D.
Shiva-Parvati Temple: The divine couple Shiva and his consort Parvati look out from the central window of the first floor. The temple was built during the reign of King Bahadur Shah.
Big Bell: The bell erected in 1797 A.D. by King Rana Bahadur Shah is rung only when worship is being offered in Degutalle temple situated nearby.
Kal Bhairav: Shiva in his ferocious form is known as Bhairav. This is one of the largest image of Bhairav and was erected by King Pratap Malla.
Maju Dewal: This temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the late 17th century by Queen Mother Riddhi Laxmi and rests on a nine plinth base dominating the square and commanding a good view of the area.
Trilokya Mohan Narayan: This Vishnu temple of late 17th century near the Kumari Ghar, was built on a five stage plinth by King Prathibendra in memory of his deceased brother. There is a kneeling image of Garuda – the vehicle of Vishnu, near the temple. During Indrajatra ( Chariot festival) large crowd gather here to see the ten incarnations of Vishnu enacted on the pedestal.
Kumari Ghar: Kumari Ghar built in 1757 A.D. by King Prakash Malla is the house of the living goddess “Kumari” who is believed to be the incarnation of goddess Taleju, the protective deity. Kumari often provides her blessing from the window to the visitiors.
Basantapur Durbar: The Basantapur Durbar also known as Nau-talle durbar was built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1770 A.D. Alongside there are other high standing pagodas known as Kirtipur Tower, Bhaktapur Tower and Lalitpur Tower.
Gaddi Baithak: This neoclassical building was built by Chandra Shumsher in 1908 A.D. during the reign of King Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah. Such kind of buildings were constructed because of Nepalese with the west in the second half of the 18th century.
Kasthamandap: This 12th century wooden building is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree hence Kathmandu obtains its name from this historical building, Kasthamandap. The building was used for public gathering during those days. The central image in the building consists of Gorakhanath and there are miniature temples of four Ganeshas.
Ashok Vinayak: This temple dedicated to the elephant god Ganesha is revered both by the Hindus and Buddhists alike and is one of the most important shrine in the valley.
Dhansa: This temple was built in 1673 A.D. by Pratap Mala to start a new masked dance of Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu.
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