Historic Bal Gopaleshwor Temple Opens in Kathmandu for People Without Siblings on Bhai Tika

The Bal Gopaleshwor Temple, situated on an island in the historic Rani Pokhari pond in central Kathmandu, opens to devotees only once a year, on the occasion of Bhai Tika.

People who do not have brothers or sisters visit the temple to offer prayers, receive tika and observe the festival.

The tradition provides an opportunity for those without siblings to participate in Bhai Tika, a festival centred on the bond between brothers and sisters.

According to cultural historian and Guthi Corporation Chairman Dr Govinda Tandan, devotees without siblings previously gathered at the Khandakeshwor Mahadev Temple in Jayabageshwari.

The Bal Gopaleshwor Temple was closed before 2035 Bikram Sambat, following safety concerns after people attempted to enter the temple by jumping into Rani Pokhari.

The temple began opening regularly on Bhai Tika after 2035 BS. However, it was again inaccessible following the devastating earthquake of April 2015, which damaged the structure.

During its reconstruction, devotees continued visiting the Khandakeshwor Mahadev Temple to observe the tradition. The restored Bal Gopaleshwor Temple reopened to the public in 2020.

The annual opening remains an important cultural tradition in Kathmandu, allowing people without siblings to mark one of Nepal’s most significant festivals.