Dhaneshwor temple
Dhaneshwor Temple
Location
The Dhaneshwor Temple is situated between Banepa and Panauti in the Kavrepalanchok District of Bagmati Province, Nepal.
Deity & Religious Significance
The temple’s main deity is Lord Shiva, in the form of a Panchamukhi Shivalinga (a five-faced lingam) which is one of the more celebrated forms in that region.
The temple also houses idols of Bhairav, Narayan, Laxminarayan, Hanuman, Mahankal, Umamaheshwor and Nandi—showing a broader spectrum of Hindu worship connected to Shiva and related deities.
Mythology & Legend
According to one story, a poor Vaisya named Shiva Das was mistreated by his wealthy relatives and became a hermit. On the advice of sage Ritu he prayed to Dhaneshwor, and in return he gained riches, so he built the temple out of gratitude.
Another belief: the temple lies at the spot where the right ear of Sati Devi fell as Sati Devi’s body was being carried by Shiva in grief. The fall of a body part is tied to the concept of a Shakti Peetha in Hindu tradition (sacred spot of the goddess).
Architecture & Structure
The temple is described as a “multi-roofed” pagoda-style structure—a common architectural form in the Kathmandu Valley region.
Its focal point is that Panchamukhi Shivalinga. Visitors often first offer prayers to that main shrine.
Festivals & Devotional Practices
Major festivals celebrated here include Maha Shivaratri, when devotees particularly honor Lord Shiva. The temple becomes crowded.
Devotees practise offerings like flowers, fruits, ghee, grains, and perform circumambulation (pradakshina) around the sanctum.
It is believed that visiting Dhaneshwor can bring good luck, prosperity, reduce sin, and help devotees with their spiritual cleansing.
Visiting Info & Access
According to one source, the temple is open daily (e.g., from 5:00 am to about 8:00 pm) though devotees should check local conditions.
The temple can be reached via Banepa, which is accessible from Kathmandu. It’s a quieter atmosphere compared with temples in the core Kathmandu city.
Because it’s somewhat outside the busiest tourist hubs, the environment can feel more peaceful—good for a devotional visit or quiet reflection.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
For spiritual travellers: It’s a significant Shiva temple with strong local devotion and mythic associations (Sati’s ear, etc.).
For cultural & architectural interest: It offers insight into Newar-style temple architecture in the Kathmandu Valley region, and lesser-visited compared to the major tourist temples.
For pilgrims: The association with prosperity and spiritual benefit makes it meaningful for worshippers.
For travellers wanting off-beat: It provides an experience that is less crowded than big city temples, yet rich in tradition.
Tips for Visiting
Dress respectfully (cover shoulders, no loud clothing) since it is a sacred site.
Visit early morning for a quieter experience.
If you are travelling from Kathmandu: allow extra time for transport, road conditions.
If photographing, ask permission where necessary—some inner sanctums may have restrictions.