Location & History
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Also known as Kanthwala Mandir (meaning “wooden temple”) or the “Mini Khajuraho”, this temple stands on Lalita Ghat on Varanasi’s western bank.
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Built in 19th-century Nepali pagoda style by King Rana Bahadur Shah of Nepal, a replica of the famed Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. Construction began around 1804, was completed in 1843 after his death, under his son’s patronage.
Architecture & Design
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Constructed from imported Nepali ‘Kath’ wood, terracotta, and stone, with elaborate wood carvings and stone reliefs depicting deities reminiscent of the Khajuraho style.
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The three-tiered pagoda structure showcases intricate Nepalese artistry—and feels like a slice of Kathmandu by the Ganges .
Spiritual & Cultural Significance
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Dedicated to Lord Shiva, housing a Pashupatinath-style lingam, and directly linked to the sacred Pashupatinath lineage.
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Revered during Mahashivratri and Nag Panchami, it also serves as a cultural symbol of Indo-Nepal ties, managed by the Vidya Dharma Pracharini Nepali Samiti along with a dharamsala nearby.
Visiting Essentials
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Access | At Lalita Ghat, ~3.8 km from Varanasi Junction |
| Timings | Open daily, morning & evening; often described as accessible 24×7 |
| Entry Fee | Free (no entry fee) |
| Recommended Visit | 30–60 minutes to appreciate the carvings and serene river setting |
Visitor Highlights
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Admired for its peaceful and photogenic riverside setting, offering a peaceful break from the crowded ghats .
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Notable features: a Nandi statue at the entrance, widow’s ashram attached, and marble‑like wood facades rarely seen elsewhere