Sankata Temple
A revered Hindu temple in Kathmandu dedicated to Goddess Sankata, offering protection from troubles and bad luck. Known for its spiritual significance...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Seek blessings for good fortune
Sankata Temple
Best Time
Seek blessings for good fortune
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered Hindu temple in Kathmandu dedicated to Goddess Sankata, offering protection from troubles and bad luck. Known for its spiritual significance and tantric practices.
"A revered and spiritually powerful shrine dedicated to Goddess Sankata Devi, known for protecting devotees from obstacles."
🎯 Saturday Queue Strategy
Arrive by 2-3 AM on Saturdays for shorter queues. Visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking and potentially standing in line, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Goddess Sankata Idol
Main Shrine
A striking idol of Goddess Sankata, radiating strength and protection. A focal point for devotees seeking relief from troubles.
Tantric & Mantra Worship
Temple Premises
Known for its significance in tantra and mantra practices, attracting those seeking deeper spiritual connections.
Alley Food Stalls
Beside the Temple
Discover local delights like Mitttho Aloo Chop and Mix Pakaunda in the vibrant alleyways near the temple.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Saturday Crowds & Early Starts
Temple Condition & Offerings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Saturday Queue Strategy
Arrive by 2-3 AM on Saturdays for shorter queues. Visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking and potentially standing in line, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Santaka Temple Kathmandu visit help
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of devotees and rituals when taking photos. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash:
🍜 Local Snack Stops
Don't miss the delicious Aloo Chop and Pakaunda from stalls beside the temple. :food:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Saturday Queue Strategy
Arrive by 2-3 AM on Saturdays for shorter queues. Visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking and potentially standing in line, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of devotees and rituals when taking photos. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash:
🍜 Local Snack Stops
Don't miss the delicious Aloo Chop and Pakaunda from stalls beside the temple. :food:
🙏 Offerings Etiquette
Devotees offer oil lamps and flowers. Be aware of pigeons feeding on offerings. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sankata Temple is a revered spiritual site dedicated to Goddess Sankata, offering protection and blessings. Visitors appreciate its deep religious significance and the calming atmosphere, though some note the premises could benefit from renovation and better cleanliness. The temple is particularly crowded on Saturdays, with many arriving very early.
"A great place of worship in the Hindu faith. Especially tantra & mantra. Pujari was bit impolite & place needed marbles & tiles. A lot of pigeons were feeding on the offerings by devotees. Premise needs renovation & cleanings."
Rajendra Sanjelchhetri
"Saturday is the day when a huge crowd of people visit this holy place to worship Hindu Goddess Sankata believing that all their troubles will be gotten rid of by her blessings and protection."
Vi
"Sankata Temple, Kathmandu
Sankata Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is dedicated to Goddess Sankata, a powerful deity believed to protect people from troubles and dangers. The temple is situated in the tebahal area of Kathmandu and is one of the important Shakti Peeths in the city.
Location: Tebahal, Kathmandu
Deity: Goddess Sankata (a form of Goddess Durga)
Established: Believed to be from the Malla period
Special Days: Most crowded on Saturdays and during Navaratri
Rituals: Devotees offer oil lamps, flowers, and perform special pujas
People visit the temple to seek blessings for protection, good health, and to remove obstacles from their lives."
Pujan Lama
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sankata Temple is located in the Tebahal area of Kathmandu. You can reach it by taxi or local bus. It's a well-known spot, so most drivers will know the way. :taxi:
Yes, local buses that ply through New Road or nearby areas will get you close. From there, it's a short walk. :bus:
From Thamel, you can take a taxi directly to Sankata Temple in Tebahal. It's a relatively short ride. :taxi:
Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's advisable to use taxis or public transport rather than driving your own vehicle. :car:
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Kathmandu Durbar Square to Sankata Temple, taking about 15-20 minutes through the charming streets. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Sankata Temple. It is a place of worship open to all. :ticket:
The temple is generally open from early morning, around 4:30 AM, until late evening. However, specific timings can vary. :clock1:
To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the afternoons. Saturdays and Tuesdays are the busiest days. :low_crowd:
No booking is required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during opening hours. :calendar:
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's respectful to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. :dress:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Goddess Sankata is revered for protecting devotees from bad luck, sickness, troubles, and dangers. Many visit to seek her blessings for good health and to overcome obstacles. :shield:
Devotees typically offer oil lamps, flowers, and perform special pujas. Some also offer food items. :pray:
Yes, the temple's architecture and spiritual ambiance are great for photography. However, be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive shots. :camerawithflash:
The temple offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. It's a place for tranquility and reflection. :peace:
Restroom facilities might be limited or basic. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit if possible. :toilet:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the alley beside Sankata Temple is known for local street food, including popular items like Mitttho Aloo Chop and Mix Pakaunda. :foodie:
You can find delicious and authentic Nepali snacks like Aloo Chop (potato fritters) and Pakaunda (mixed vegetable fritters) in the nearby alleys. :snack:
While the immediate vicinity is known for street food, you can find various restaurants and cafes in the broader New Road area, a short walk away. :restaurant:
Street food can be a great experience, but it's always wise to choose vendors that appear clean and busy. :hygiene:
Beyond the snacks near Sankata Temple, try momos, dal bhat, and Newari cuisine when exploring Kathmandu. :dumpling:
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate carvings on the temple architecture, the main deity's idol, and the vibrant street life in the adjacent alleys offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid photographing rituals or individuals without their consent. :no_photography:
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the temple's ambiance. However, be mindful of crowds during peak hours. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around religious sites in Nepal. It's best to avoid it to prevent issues. :drone:
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wider shots and details. A prime lens can be good for low-light situations. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Goddess Sankata
Many visitors come to Sankata Temple with specific intentions, hoping the goddess will remove obstacles from their lives and bring them peace and prosperity. The spiritual energy of the place is palpable, with many describing a sense of calm and hope after their visit. The temple's importance is deeply rooted in local beliefs and traditions, making it a vital spiritual hub within Kathmandu.
While the temple is primarily Hindu, it also holds significance for Buddhists who associate the shrine with Chanda Mahoroshan. This syncretic aspect highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal. The rituals performed here often involve oil lamps and specific mantras, further emphasizing its tantric connections. Understanding this context enhances the appreciation of the temple's unique spiritual offerings.
Navigating Saturday Crowds
If you plan to visit on a Saturday, an extremely early start is crucial. Be prepared for a long wait, potentially several hours, depending on when you arrive. The temple opens around 4:30 AM, but the lines can extend well beyond that. It's advisable to bring water, snacks, and perhaps a book or something to keep you occupied while you wait. The experience can be intense but is often described as deeply rewarding by those who undertake it.
For a more relaxed and less crowded experience, consider visiting on a weekday, particularly in the afternoon. Tuesdays are also considered auspicious and can be busy, though generally less so than Saturdays. Weekday visits allow for a more personal connection with the shrine and a better opportunity to appreciate the temple's ambiance without the rush.
Local Flavors Around the Temple
These street food stalls provide a glimpse into the daily culinary life of Kathmandu. They are often bustling with locals and curious travelers alike. When trying street food, it's always a good idea to observe the hygiene practices of the vendors and choose stalls that appear clean and have a good turnover of customers. The experience of savoring these local treats adds another dimension to your visit to Sankata Temple.
Beyond these specific snacks, the New Road area, which is a short walk from the temple, offers a wider array of dining options, from small eateries to more established restaurants. However, for a quick, authentic, and budget-friendly bite, the street food vendors near Sankata Temple are highly recommended. :foodie:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit