Bungamati
बुङ्गमती
An old Newar village south of Patan, birthplace of the red Machhendranath (rain god), one of the most revered deities in the valley. Temples in the village square and wood-carving workshops line the streets.
Bungamati lies on a ridge about 10 km south of Patan. Built in the 16th century, it is the birthplace of the red Machhendranath, one of the most revered deities in the valley. During the winter half of the year, the image is enshrined in a shikhara-style temple in the central square of the village. In spring it is carried to Patan for the chariot festival. The old houses around the square are mostly wood-carving workshops, where you can watch craftsmen carve window lattices and Buddha figures. Prices are more reasonable than in Thamel. Outside the village are terraced fields and the Bagmati River valley. The village suffered heavy damage in the 2015 earthquake, and the main temple is still being restored. A taxi takes about 30 minutes. It pairs well with a half-day trip to Khokana, a 20-minute walk away.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Khokana
- Taudaha Lake
- Chobhar Gorge & Adinath Lokeshwar
- Pharping
- Dakshinkali Temple
- Patan Durbar Square
- Kirtipur
- Dharahara