KATHMANDU: The Budhanilakantha Narayansthan Temple has been opened for devotees from today amid COVID-19 crisis.

The temple was closed for devotees after the government enforced nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus for nine months.

Addressing a programme organised on the premises of the temple today, Bagmati Province Assembly member Dipak Niraula and Mayor of Budhanilakantha Municipality Uddhav Prasad Kharel announced  the opening of shrine to devotees.

On the occasion, Province Assembly member Niraula said religious tourism could be promoted by making publicity on the historic, religious and cultural importance of the Budhanilakantha Narayansthan Temple.

Likewise, Mayor Kharel also made commitment that new structures would be created to augment religious tourism in the temple.

Mathadhis at the temple, Mahanta Swami Nigamananda informed that the temple, closed for nine months due to Covid-19 menace, was opened by adhering to health protocols.

Although the temple was closed, regular puja and lighting were conducted on a regular basis, Swami Nigamananda shared.