KATHMANDU: Kathmandu, known as the city of temples, is home to countless religious and cultural landmarks, each carrying deep historical significance and spiritual legends. Among them, the Narayanhiti Temple, located to the east of the Narayanhiti Royal Palace, remains largely unnoticed despite its historical and religious prominence.
For most people, the name Narayanhiti is immediately associated with the Narayanhiti Palace, the former royal residence of Nepal’s monarchs. However, few recognize that the palace itself derives its name from the Narayan temple and the Hiti (water spout) situated next to it.
This temple, known as Shri Chaturbihuha Narayan Narayanhiti Temple, has been a spiritual power center for centuries, yet it remains in the shadows of its more famous neighbor.
According to long-time worshipper Hina Pyakurel, the temple predates the palace and has been a site of devotion since the time of King Satyavata. Historically, strict security around the palace discouraged common people from visiting the temple, making it less accessible. However, with the fall of the monarchy, the restrictions have eased, and the temple is now open to the public.
The legend of the Narayanhiti stream
The Hiti (water spout) next to the temple holds a fascinating legend. It is said that King Dharmadev had a vision that a divine being, distinguished by 32 noble characteristics, would emerge at the temple site. However, unable to find such a figure, he realized that either he or his son must be sacrificed to fulfill the prophecy.
To protect his lineage, the king sacrificed himself, instructing his son to behead the chosen figure without looking.
Upon doing so, the son discovered he had unknowingly killed his own father. The legend further states that the king’s severed head flew to Vajrayogini and is still enshrined there. After the beheading, continuous rainfall was believed to have followed as a sign of the tragic event.
The Chaturbihuha Narayan Temple represents one of the five forms of Lord Narayan: Para, Vyuha, Vibhava, Antaryami, and Archa. This temple is dedicated to Vyuha Narayan, the form that Lord Vishnu takes in different cosmic situations.
Worshiping at this temple is believed to bring legal relief and spiritual blessings. According to Pyakurel, offering water and sesame seeds on Saturdays and lighting mustard oil lamps here is said to reduce the adverse effects of Saturn (Shani) in one’s life.
Interestingly, devotees believe that worship at Pashupatinath Temple is incomplete without a visit to Narayanhiti Temple. In the past, even Nepali kings followed this tradition, making it a practice to seek blessings here before embarking on any journey.
Festivals and rituals
Although relatively lesser-known, the temple plays a significant role in religious festivities. It hosts a midnight worship ceremony during Krishna Janmashtami, while Ram Navami is marked by special offerings and noon prayers.
During Maha Shivaratri, the temple witnesses a grand celebration, including the installation of a Buddha idol and Rudri worship. One of its most notable traditions is the annual chariot procession, where a sacred chariot carrying Lord Narayan is taken from the temple to Hanuman Dhoka before returning for worship.
Additionally, the temple holds Narayani and Ganga Aarti, similar to the elaborate rituals performed at Pashupatinath Temple, adding to its spiritual significance.
The temple premises are home to a rare thousand-year-old tree, where Barpipal and Sami trees have naturally intertwined. This unique formation is considered spiritually significant.
The temple also houses a statue of Garuda, which, like Nandi in Shiva temples, stands as a divine gatekeeper. Near the entrance, a statue of Hanuman is said to have been relocated from Hanuman Dhoka based on divine instructions.
Preservation challenges
Despite its religious importance, the Narayanhiti Temple remains underfunded and underpromoted. The Guthi Sansthan currently oversees its management, but resources are limited.
Pyakurel, who has been actively promoting the temple through digital marketing, highlights the need for government and Kathmandu Metropolitan City intervention for restoration and better maintenance.
Although foreign tourists occasionally visit the temple after touring the Narayanhiti Museum, many locals remain unaware of its significance. With greater promotion and conservation efforts, the Narayanhiti Temple could reclaim its rightful place as one of Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural landmarks.
While the Narayanhiti Palace continues to dominate public consciousness, the temple and its sacred Hiti deserve recognition for their historical and religious importance. With its mystical legends, ancient rituals, and spiritual energy, Narayanhiti Temple stands as an overlooked yet essential part of Nepal’s rich religious heritage. It is time to rediscover and preserve this hidden gem in the heart of Kathmandu.
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