About the Erotic Elephants Temple
Located just outside the western gates of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, these twin temples to Shiva and Shiva Parvati, historically known as Anantalingeswar & Uma Maheshwar temples, feature intricate carvings. Despite their smaller size, they hold significant cultural and historical value, having undergone minor repairs following the 2015 earthquake.
Observing the roof struts of the first temple reveals depictions of animals engaged in various forms of copulation, notably the famous intertwined elephant trunks.
Essential Info
Erotic Elephants Temple at a Glance
Entrance Fee: Free - no entrance fee (located outside Bhaktapur Durbar Square ticket area) |
Location: Just outside western gates of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, easily accessible from main square |
Main Highlight: Twin Shiva temples (Anantalingeswar & Uma Maheshwar) featuring intricate erotic roof strut carvings, including famous intertwined elephant trunks |
Recommended Visit: 10-15 minutes to observe roof strut carvings and temple architecture |
Key Features: Erotic animal carvings on roof struts, intertwined elephant depictions, Malla-era artistic boldness, twin temple design dedicated to Shiva and Shiva Parvati |
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting to view detailed roof strut carvings; accessible anytime (no gate hours) |
Cultural Significance: Erotic imagery believed to ward off lightning god, symbolize life cycle, or showcase Malla-era artistic freedom; underwent minor repairs after 2015 earthquake |
Getting There: Short walk from Bhaktapur Durbar Square western gates; 30-45 min taxi from Kathmandu or local bus |
Photography: Excellent for capturing intricate roof strut details; bring zoom lens or binoculars for close-up viewing of upper carvings |
|
Information verified: January 2026
Did you know?
It's not just this temple that features depictions of a sexual nature. Many temples within the Kathmandu Valley display intimate scenes on their roof struts.
Why are there erotic images on temples?
The presence of erotic images on temples has sparked various interpretations. While some locals suggest it serves to ward off the bashful god of lightning, historians propose it symbolizes the cycle of life. It is widely believed that during the Malla reign, artists were encouraged to express boldness through such artistic depictions.
Discover more about this narrative with the story of the artist who lost his hands in Bhaktapur.
Entrance fee to the Erotic Elephant Temple
There is no fee to enter The Erotic Elephant Temple as it is located outside Bhaktapur Durbar Square and ticket offices.
Explore hidden heritage walks in Bhaktapur with my book Kathmandu Valley Heritage Walks.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Erotic Elephant Temple
What is the real name of the Erotic Elephant Temple?
The temple is a twin temple historically known as the Anantalingeswar and Uma Maheshwar temples. Its popular name comes from the erotic roof strut carvings, particularly those of the elephants.
Why are there erotic images on the temples?
There are several theories about the erotic carvings. Some locals believe they ward off the god of lightning, while historians suggest they symbolize the cycle of life. It is also believed that artists were encouraged to express boldness during the Malla reign.
Where is the Erotic Elephant Temple located?
The temples are located just outside the western gates of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. They are easily accessible and are a short walk from the main square.
Is there an entrance fee to the temple?
No, there is no separate fee to enter the temple. It is located outside the main Bhaktapur Durbar Square ticket offices, so a ticket for the square is not required to visit this specific temple.
Download my guidebooks to Bhaktapur (Nepal)
Liked this page? You'll love my book! It's a guidebook that's better than the rest and the only one that's kept updated. Yes, really! In it I cover all of Bhaktapur's attractions with well researched information, photographs and travel tested walking tours.
It's an interactive & printable guidebook like no other.
Discover more guidebooks!
 |
 |
Full Nepal Guidebook
|
Kathmandu Valley Heritage Walks
|
Was this page helpful to you? If so please tell others!
