Ashok Binayak

Behind the Kasthamandapa in Kathmandu is the Ashok Binayak shrine. Although it is a small and very simple shrine, it is still the principal shrine dedicated to Ganesh, making it a very important shrine in the Kathmandu Valley. One of the most important events that happen here is the coronation ceremony rites.

Along with the nearby Madu Hiti Fountain, it is believed that the Ashok Binayak shrine was founded during the 10th century by Gundakama Deva. However, the current structure seen today only dates back to the 19th century since it has been rebuilt already.

The Ganesh image, which is made of stone, stands exactly beneath a golden replica of an ashok tree which once gave shade to the shrine. It was this tree which gave the shrine its name.