Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar)

Patan’s Golden Temple, known in Nepali as Hiranya Varna Mahavihar and in Newari as Kwa Bahal, stands as one of the neighborhood’s most captivating sites. Despite its name, this small Buddhist monastery is not made of gold, nor is it a temple in the traditional sense. Instead, it is adorned with brass and bronze plates, roof tiles, and intricate decorations that shimmer like gold in the sunlight. Visitors can explore the serene courtyard and admire the detailed craftsmanship, which reflects the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region.