The Chhayabahal Matha (Monastery) and Temple of Shree 3 Visheshwor Mahadev is located in Patan and was established before 1679 A.D. The history and traditions of the Matha are associated with Adi Shankaracharya (Sanskrit: आदि शङ्कराचार्य; 733–746 CE). The impressive architecture of the Chhayabahal Matha makes it an important heritage site.
The art-wealth of the Matha has been documented by the University of Heidelburg: View website
The Chhayabahal Matha is a part of a private trust. The Bharati family of Patan, who established the Matha have also been preserving it since the 17th century as it's main patron. Due to centuries of weathering tropical storms, monsoon, termite infestations and earthquakes, the Matha currently needs to be fully restored. The Chhayabahal Matha has withstood major earthquakes of 1767 AD, 1833 AD, 1934 AD and 2015 AD but is not in a condition to resist further earthquakes and needs protection from further damages.
The Chahayabahal Matha Foundation (CMF) was established in October, 2021 by a few members of the Bharati family and an additional group of heritage enthusiasts, keen to conserve and promote the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Kathmandu valley. The conservation efforts will primarily focus on restoration of the Chahayabahal Matha in Lalitpur.
About the Matha and the Foundation
