Budhanilkantha is a religious site located approximately 10 kilometers north of the Kathmandu city center at the base of the Shivapuri hill. It is known for the Budhanilkantha Temple, which houses a large and impressive statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on the coils of the serpent Shesh Nag. The statue is carved from a single block of black basalt stone and is considered one of the most magnificent stone sculptures in Nepal. It measures about 5 meters in length and is believed to be over a thousand years old. This sacred place attracts pilgrims from around Nepal and India throughout the year, especially during the festivals of Harishayani and Haribodhini Ekadashi when thousands of devotees gather to pay homage. Budhanilkantha is not just a spiritual and pilgrim site but also an area with lush greenery, offering a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The surrounding area features several hiking trails leading into Shivapuri National Park, allowing visitors to experience both cultural and natural aspects of Nepali heritage.