About the Mahaboudha Temple
Located to the south of Patan Durbar Square, the Mahaboudha (Mahabuddha) temple is one of several popular attractions of culture worth stopping by to see if you walk around this old Newari city.
The nickname "temple of a thousand and eight Buddhas" comes from the engraved terracotta tiles that cover the stone structure.
The temple is sometimes called "the temple of 9000" buddhas too. However, this is somewhat misleading as the 9000 refers to the stones used to build the temple under the tiles.
The temple had some mild damage during the April 25th earthquake in Nepal. and was renovated in 2022.
Take note of the small ticket price for the temple below as it also covers the nearby Uku Bahal monastery.
Essential Info
Mahaboudha Temple at a Glance
Location: South Patan, narrow lane around the corner from Uku Bahal; 10 min walk from Durbar Square |
Main Draw: “Temple of 1,008 Buddhas”; terracotta-covered shikhara (1564–1610) |
Highlights: Replica of Bodh Gaya’s Mahabodhi; 9,000 terracotta tiles, each with Buddha |
Visit Time: 8–10 min; compact courtyard, photo-friendly |
Best Season: Year round |
Access: From Uku Bahal → 1st right → 1st left into courtyard via a narrow door |
From KTM: 30 min taxi; combine with Patan day trip |
Entrance: **50 NPR** (includes Uku Bahal); buy at either site |
History: Built 1564–1610 by Abhaya Raj & 5 sons; rebuilt post-1934 quake |
Status: 2015 quake damage; fully renovated 2022 |
Pro Tip: Pair with Uku Bahal (same ticket). Respect active worship—quiet courtyard. |
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Information verified: January 2026
Did you know?
The temple is modeled on the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodhgaya, India. The story of how the one in Nepal was made is quite interesting.
How the Mahaboudha Temple was built
In the early 1500s, a devotee from Patan named Abhaya Raj Shakya visited the famous Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya temple in India. While in Bodhgaya, he studied coin making. Back in Kathmandu, he obtained permission to begin a royal mint in his courtyard. In 1564, he began construction of this Mahaboudha temple; however, he died when only the foundation was constructed.
Each of five Abhaya's sons worked on finishing the temple. All but the fifth died with the project incomplete. The fifth son was about to give up when a goddess appeared, and he continued the project. The Mahaboudha temple was finished in 1610.
The temple was severely damaged in the earthquake of 1934, and an extensive restoration project facilitated much of the repairs.
Renovation of the Mahaboudha Temple
The Mahaboudha temple was again damaged in the 2015 earthquake. It's located in a small courtyard and still stands today. In 2022, the temple and area was renovated.
In late 2025 the entrances to Mahaboudha were renovated to try and give the site a little more room.
Entrance fee for the Mahaboudha Temple
The current fee for foreigners is 50 rupees. This ticket is also valid for nearby Uku Bahal. So, you only need to buy one ticket at either compound.
Map of the Mahaboudha Temple & Patan
Use this map of Patan to locate the Mahaboudha Temple and other highlights in Patan. For a better map download my full travel guide to Patan
The Mahaboudha Temple is located down a narrow side street in south Patan.
As you come out of Uku Bahal, take a left then the first street to your right. The Mahaboudha Temple street will be the first on your left. See my travel guide below for full walking directions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mahaboudha Temple
Mahaboudha Temple in Patan, known as the Temple of a Thousand Buddhas, is a 16th-century Buddhist shikhara-style temple modeled after the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India. It features thousands of terracotta Buddha images, reflecting Newari craftsmanship.
Located in a courtyard near Patan Durbar Square, Mahaboudha Temple is accessible by foot (5-10 minutes from the square). Entry is included in the Patan Durbar Square fee (NPR 1,000 for foreigners). Dress modestly and visit early to avoid crowds.
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