Budhanilakantha is a municipality in the northern part of Kathmandu district, known for its famous Hindu temple housing a large reclining statue of Lord Vishnu. The municipality covers a significant area extending from the valley floor to the forested hills of Shivapuri National Park.
The area is named after the Budhanilkantha Temple, which features a massive stone carving of the sleeping Vishnu lying on a bed of serpents in a small pond. This 5th-century sculpture is one of the largest and most beautiful stone carvings in Nepal. The municipality is a blend of urban and rural landscapes, with modern residential areas coexisting with traditional farming communities.
Budhanilakantha municipality is home to various educational institutions and has been experiencing rapid urbanization in recent years. The area offers beautiful views of the Himalayas and serves as a gateway to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, making it popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts.