Taleju Temple, Kathmandu Information | Photos | Location

Taleju Temple is a temple dedicated to Taleju Bhawani, the clan goddess  of the Malla kings who ruled Nepal rom the 12th to 18th century. Goddess Taleju Bhawani , believed to have ten arms and four heads has her statues made of gold placed in all three Taleju temples. The oldest one, the Taleju temple in Bhaktapur Durbar square, the second Taleju temple in the courtyards of Patan Durbar square. The third and the most famous one in the premises of Kathmandu Durbaar square. It has been said Goddess Taleju herself suggested the structure of the last temple also bestowing it with some magical powers. Entry for Hindu’s and non-Hindus has been partly permitted in all three temples.

Also known as the Degutalle temple, it is a five storied temple devoted to goddess Taleju Bhawani, the sacred goddess of the Mallas and the protecting deity of Nepal. At the top, it has an octagonal triple-roofed tower almost looking like a pyramid.  It is another example of fine art and sculpture of the Malla period.

Photography is restricted so the only evidence of what the insides of the temple look like are from the descriptions of the visitors and the locals. The architecture and the detailing inside the temple has been what everybody praises.  The triple roofed mighty structure stands tall towards the south of the courtyard of Durbaar square, praised and admired by all, it is one of the best depictions of the faith towards the goddess.

There is giant bell called "Taleju bell" here which can be seen as soon as one enters the Patan Durbar Square.  It is an ancient bell which hangs just between two stout and heavy pillars which was erected by King Vishnu Malla in 1736.The brass chains of the bell still look strong just like the two pillars. Petitioners usually ring the bell if they have any complaints towards the king. There is a fountain behind the bell which is crossed by a decorative bridge.