323 Years of Nyatapola: Bhaktapur’s Historic Temple Celebration (Photos)

Nepal Views

Kathmandu: Today, the 323rd anniversary (Busadā) of the five‑story Nyatapola ( pronounced as Nyātāpola) Temple located at Taumadhi, Bhaktapur, was celebrated.

Today marks 323 years since the construction of the famous five‑story temple of historical and cultural significance, located at Taumadhi in Bhaktapur. This day is called Nyatāpola‑yā Busadā.

According to tantric rituals, worship and offerings are performed today. The main door of the temple is opened, and the designated Joshi and Aachaju priests carry out worship and rituals for peace and happiness, while cleaning and minor maintenance of the temple are conducted, and a flag is hoisted atop the gajur.

Nyatapola, the tallest temple of Nepal, was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 18th century, and its construction was completed on the day of Asar Shukla Pratipada of Nepal Sambat 822.

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Inscriptions indicate that the first anniversary ritual was performed that same day, and it became a tradition to hold this special annual ritual every Asar Shukla Pratipada. King Bhupatindra Malla introduced the annual ritual to ensure regular cleaning and maintenance of the temple.

The temple is dedicated to Siddhilakshmi, Bhairav, and Betal. On the day of Nyatāpola‑yā Busadā, the Awal community cleans the roof of the temple as part of the anniversary celebrations.

It is believed that only individuals proficient in tantric practices are allowed to enter the temple, as it is considered an embodiment of tantric energy of the goddess.

During the Malla era, local communities such as Chhaling, Jitpur, Wageshwori, Sakwa, Jhaukhya, Changhu, Gokarna, and Panti participated in the construction of the temple.