“This Shiva temple is one of the oldest and tallest pagodas in Nepal, with some of the country's finest carved wooden roof struts.”
About Indreshwar Mahadev Temple
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple is traditionally dated to the 13th century, placing it among the earliest pagoda temples in Nepal, though it has been reconstructed after damaging earthquakes through its long history. Dedicated to Shiva, it stands in Panauti, an ancient and well-preserved Newar town at the confluence of two rivers, long considered a sacred and auspicious location.
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple in the historic town of Panauti is one of the oldest and tallest pagoda temples in Nepal, a masterpiece of Newar architecture dedicated to the god Shiva. With its towering multi-tiered roof and exquisitely carved wooden struts, it is the centrepiece of Panauti, a small, beautifully preserved medieval town at the confluence of sacred rivers.
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple in the historic town of Panauti is one of the oldest and tallest pagoda temples in Nepal, a masterpiece of Newar architecture dedicated to the god Shiva.
Among the Oldest Pagodas in Nepal
The temple is believed to date in origin to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest surviving pagoda-style temples in the country, though it has been rebuilt after earthquakes over the centuries. Dedicated to Shiva in the form of Indreshwar, it is renowned for the artistry of its carved roof struts, which rank among the finest examples of Newar woodcarving. Panauti's setting at a river confluence adds to the temple's sacred significance.
The Experience
Wandering the temple's tall, tiered pagoda and admire the intricately carved wooden struts depicting deities and figures, then wander the surrounding old town of Panauti with its traditional architecture, temples and riverside ghats. The town's compact, historic character and the river confluence give the temple a serene and timeless setting, away from the busier tourist circuits of the valley.
Why It Matters
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple is a landmark of Newar religious architecture and one of the oldest pagoda temples in Nepal, prized for its antiquity and its woodcarving. Set in the historic town of Panauti, it represents the depth of the Kathmandu Valley's artistic and spiritual heritage beyond the main cities.
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple is a landmark of Newar religious architecture and one of the oldest pagoda temples in Nepal, prized for its antiquity and its woodcarving.
Why Visit
One of the oldest and tallest pagoda temples in Nepal, a Shiva shrine with superb Newar woodcarving in the historic riverside town of Panauti.
✦ Insider Tips
- 1
Admire the carved wooden roof struts, among Nepal's finest.
- 2
Explore the historic old town of Panauti around it.
- 3
Note the sacred river confluence beside the town.
- 4
It is quieter than the main Kathmandu Valley sites.
