Located in north Patan the Golden temple (Hiranyavarna Mahavihara) is perhaps the second most popular attraction here after Durbar Square. The temple was built in 1409 and is in fact a Newari Buddhist monastery. The nickname "golden temple" came about through tourism more than it actually being made of pure gold. Most of the temple is actually polished brass. Never the less it still remains a stunning special to visit for many reason.