About Manakamana Temple, Gorkha, Nepal
Manakamana Temple stands on a hilltop in the Gorkha district of Nepal and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. Devotees believe that the Goddess fulfils the heartfelt wishes of those who pray with faith, and the name Manakamana means wish-fulfilment.
The temple is reached by a cable car from Kurintar, which has made the pilgrimage easier and brought visitors from across Nepal and India.
Story of Manakamana Temple
The temple is a pagoda-style shrine on a ridge at about 1,300 metres, with views of the Trishuli and Marsyangdi valleys. Local tradition links it with the royal family of Gorkha, who worshipped the Goddess before the unification of Nepal.
A cable car opened in 1998 now carries pilgrims from the Trishuli river valley to the temple in about ten minutes.
What Makes Manakamana Temple Sacred for Devotees
Wish-Fulfilling Bhagwati
Devotees climb or ride to the temple to offer prayers and make vows. Many return to give thanks when a wish is fulfilled.
Faith and Offerings
Pilgrims offer flowers, red cloth and sweets. Traditional animal offerings have been made here historically, though many devotees offer only vegetarian items.
Annual Festivals & Rituals at Manakamana Temple, Gorkha, Nepal
Dashain Celebrations at the Temple
The main Nepali festival, with special worship of the Goddess.
Chaitra Dashain Celebrations at the Temple
A spring festival with large crowds.
Saturdays and Tuesdays Celebrations at the Temple
These days of the week are considered auspicious for visiting.
Sacred Places to Visit Near Manakamana Temple
Kurintar : The base station of the cable car on the Trishuli river.
Gorkha Durbar : The historic palace of the Shah dynasty.
Chitwan National Park : A well-known wildlife park within reach of the area.
Common Questions About Visiting Manakamana Temple
Visitor Information
Darshan Timing
Address
Manakamana Temple, Gorkha District, Nepal
How to Reach the Temple
By Air: Kathmandu and Pokhara have the nearest major airports.
By Rail: There is no railway service in the area.
By Road: A highway runs from Kathmandu and Pokhara to Kurintar, where the cable car begins.