Introduction:
Hiranya Varna Maha-Vihar, popularly known as "The Golden Temple" is believed to have been renovated in the 12111 Century by a ruler of that time, King Vasker Deva Varma. vis- ited by thousands of devotees and visitors, this Vihar is full of important deities, master- pieces of art and sculpture, and well disciplined performances of traditional, religious and cul- tural practices same of which are noted here under:
The image of Lord Sakyamuni Buddha situated in the ground floor of the main three storied temple is Chiefly worshipped. A widely renowned and sancti- fied volume written in golden script called "PRAJNA- PARAMITA" is preserved here and is recited very often by the Lamas under strict rules and regulations.

In the East Side of the building, the God "Yogambara" is in- stalled in a small room, which is strictly prohibited to be seen except for a Lama specially appointed for the purpose to worship the God without miss- ing a day.

A permanent exhibit in the first floor of the south side of the building is well worth seeing. Various images of deities including that of Avalokitesvara are displayed there, revealing master craftsmanship of an artists unknown. Big sized images of Amitabha Buddhas are placed in the middle.

On the ground floor, there are two fine images of Goddess Tara and also an image of Manjushree (the God of Wis- dom.)

The temple in the middle of the courtyard with the "SWAYAMBHU CHAITYA" inside is another promi- nent feature which deserves attention of whoever visits the Vihar.
Towards the northwest comer, adjoining the main tem- ple, the image ofVajra Sattva is installed in a room.

The first floor of the building, facing to the south is a Tibetan style monastery (Gumba) where one finds a complete set of Tibetan holy texts called" Kagyur" (a hundred volumes.)
A marvellous image of"Amogha Pash Lokeshwara" and other deities add to the attraction of the monastery.

In all four corners of the courtyard, there are im- ages of Lokeshwara standing. The images are con- sidered to be of great significance firstly because of their antiquity and second because of the superb performances of the artists.

In the month of Shravan (July-August) a traditional exhibition is held here every year, during which many images of Gods and Goddesses are displayed. However, most of the images displayed at the time are those of Deepanker Buddhas or Tathagatas.

VIHAR SUDHAR COMMITTEE
(Care Taker Committee of the Vihar)
HIRANYA VARNA MAHAVIHAR LALITPUR.