Shilu Mahadev Temple: Your Guide to Bhaktapur's Carved Shrine - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

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Shilu Mahadev Temple is also known as Phasi Dega. It is one of the tallest temples in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and if you climb up to the base of the temple, you will have a beautiful view.

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Origin of the Name Shilu Mahadev Temple

The name Shilu Mahadev refers to Lord Shiva, known as Mahadev in Hindu tradition, the destroyer and transformer among the holy trinity. The word ‘Shilu’ is less clear in origin, it may relate to the stone (shila) aspect of the shrine or possibly derive from a local patron's name or historic title. Combined, the name points to a dedicated Shiva shrine, likely once housing a Shiva Linga or stone symbol of the god.

Origin of the Name Phasi Dega

Locals often refer to this temple as Phasi Dega or Phasidegal, which translates to ‘execution temple’. The name comes from an enduring urban legend that this site was once used for public executions or royal punishment. While there’s no concrete historical evidence to support this tale, the name persists, giving the temple an air of mystery and a vivid place in the collective memory of Bhaktapur.

Architecture and Presence

Shilu Mahadev Temple resemble the shikhara (tower) style, which is common in North Indian Hindu temple architecture, and was also adopted by the Newars. The temple rises in a curved, pyramidal shape that tapers toward the top, mimicking a mountain peak, which symbolically represents Mount Meru, the cosmic mountain in Hindu cosmology.
The staircase guardians include elephants, lions, and bulls, each of which carries distinct symbolic meaning in Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

• Elephants appear at the bottom. They are strong and majestic protectors, symbolizing wisdom, royalty, and divine strength. As guardians, elephants stand as symbols of stability and protection.

• Lions are in the middle, representing bravery and ferocity, leading worshippers up the staircase. They are the most common and widely used guardians in Hindu temples.

• Bulls are closest to the temple, standing as protectors of the Shiva Linga or shrine itself, symbolizing devotion to Lord Shiva. Bulls often serve as guardians of Shiva's temples and may be positioned to represent strength, loyalty, and service. In this case, the bull is part of a divine protection system, symbolizing both Shiva’s presence and the earthly power he commands.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Shilu Mahadev served as a Shaivite shrine, a place for locals to offer prayers to Lord Shiva, especially during festivals like Shivaratri. Though the temple is no longer in full ritual use, it remains a symbol of devotion and resilience, echoing Bhaktapur’s long-standing spiritual heritage.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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