Krishna Mandir, A Stone Marvel of Indo-Islamic Architecture

Patanduba Square

This temple combines both Nepalese local style

Introduction

The Kala Bhairava temple, also known as the Kirti Monastery, is located in the northwest of the Patan Palace Square and was built during the reign of King Hridaya Narasimha Malla in 1637. According to legend, the king dreamt of the god Kala Bhairava and therefore built the temple at this location. Kala Bhairava, also known as Kala Bhairab, is an incarnation of the god Shiva and is described in detail in the Bhagavad Gita, which is considered the gospel of Hinduism. Unlike traditional Nepalese red brick and wood temples, the Patan Kala Bhairava temple is made of stone and has been influenced by Indian Islamic architectural style. The temple has three stories, with the first story columns depicting the stories of the Mahabharata and the second story columns depicting the stories of the Ramayana, two of the most important classics of Hinduism. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the inner sanctuary, which houses the Kala Bhairava statue, but can admire the carvings on the first floor. In front of the temple stands a half-human and half-bird image of Garuda, the vehicle of Vishnu. The square in front of the temple is often crowded with pigeons and is a popular spot for photographers. The temple celebrates the Kala Bhairava festival in August and September each year.