Manakamana Temple, one of the holiest shrines of the Hindu Goddess Manakamana, is situated atop a 1300-meter hill. The temple is 150 Km west of Kathmandu on the way to a famous tourist destinations like Chitwan and Pokhara.
Manakamana Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati. Goddess Bhagwati is a reincarnation of Goddess Parbati. The name Mana Kamana came from two words, ‘mana’ means heart, and ‘kamana’ means wish. Such as Manakamana is regarded as a wish-fulfilling Goddess.
Pilgrimage believes their wish will be granted by Goddess Manakamana. In Newari tradition, it is believed, a newlywed couple who visits Manakamana will receive a son as the 1st child. Devotees believe whatever you wish with a pure heart will be granted. Thus, the Temple is known as a Wish-fulfilling temple.
The Legend of Manakamana Temple goes back to the 17th century when Ram Shah was the ruler of Gorkha (A. D. 1614-1636). His queen was possessed by divine powers which were known by only one person, Lakhan Thapa. One day King found the queen in form of a Goddess and Lakhan Thapa as a Lion. Some days later king died mysteriously. According to the ritual queen also burnt herself with the king which is known as Sati pratha. Before killing herself, she promised Lakhan Thapa that one day she will meet him again.
Six months later a farmer while doing his regular fieldwork discovered the stone. Milk and blood were pouring from the stone which has made a stream. When Lakhan Thapa learned about the incident, he constructed the Temple to honor Goddess Bhagwati. Later in the 19th century, Manakamana Temple has been reconstructed several times to make it in its present form.
Built-in four-tiered pagoda style, Manakamana Temple is meticulously set in a square overlooked by Magnolia Tree, which is also believed a sacred tree. The priest of Manakamana Temple is the 17th generation of Lakhan Thapa.
An interesting fact is Manakamana Temple is one of very few Temples where a priest comes from the Magar community.
Best time to visit Manakamana Temple
Manakamana Temple can be visited throughout the year. However spring and autumn come with a great view and the most suitable weather making our trip the best.
A large number of pilgrimage visits to Manakamana Temple during the Dashain festival (September-October) and Nag Panchami festival (July-August). This time is perfect to witness the festive vibes of Nepal.
Where is Manakamana Temple located?
Manakamana Temple is located on the top of 1300 meter high hill known as Kafakdanda overlooking the Trishuli River (south) and Marshyangdi River (west) in the Gorkha district. The Temple lies approx 150 Kilometers west of Kathmandu and 95 Kilometers from Pokhara and only 12 Kilometers from Gorkha Bazaar. Gorkha is home to one of the world-class trekking routes, Manaslu Circuit Trek. A top of a hill offers a fascinating view of Mountains like the Annapurna range, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu to name a few.
How to reach Manakamana Temple?
There are two ways to reach Manakamana Temple. The fastest and easiest way is the Manakamana Cable car and another is a classic 4-hour trek to the top.
Manakamana Cable Car
Manakamana Cable Car is indeed the easiest and fastest way to reach the top of Manakamana Temple. Built in 1998, the 10-minute ride over the ridge is extremely entertaining and is very popular among the pilgrims. The Manakamana Cable Car ride starts from the bank of the Trishuli River (258 meters) going above the dense forest and in 10 minutes we cover a 3 Km distance reaching up to 1300 meters. Manakamana Cable Car route is designed for a comfortable ride for differently abled people and elderly pilgrims.
Manakamana Cable Car Timing
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM HOURS OF OPERATION
12:00 NOON – 1:30 PM BREAK
Manakamana Cable Car Ticket price
Citizen | One Way | One Way |
---|---|---|
Nepali | Rs. 410.00 | Rs. 700.00 |
Child (Above 3ft – Upto 4ft) | Rs. 245.00 | Rs. 420.00 |
Student | Rs. 305.00 | Rs. 525.00 |
Senior Citizen (Above 60 years) | Rs. 285.00 | Rs. 490.00 |
Differently Abled | Rs. 205.00 | Rs. 350.00 |
Indian Adult | Rs. 520.00 | Rs. 880.00 |
Indian Child | Rs. 336.00 | Rs. 576.00 |
SAARC/ Chinese | US$ 6.00 | US$ 10.00 |
SAARC/ Chinese Child | US$ 4.00 | US$ 7.00 |
Foreigner | US$ 11.00 | US$ 20.00 |
Child Foreigner | US$ 8.00 | US$ 15.00 |
- The child is categorized by their height, children above 3 ft and up to 4 ft height qualify for a child ticket.
- 60 years and above qualify for senior citizen tickets.
- Senior citizens and student tickets require proof of an ID card.
- 15 kg baggage allowed is given free of charge baggage exceeding the limit will be charged @NPR 17 per kg, NRS 250.00 for goats.
- Rates are subject to change without prior notice.