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Popular pilgrimage destination to the Hindu goddess Bhagwati, Parvati’s reincarnation, the Manakamana Temple is tucked amid the gorgeous hills of Gorkha, Nepal. People who visit the temple’s revered places are believed to see their wishes satisfied. Drawn by its beautiful location, spiritual importance, and rich history, the Manakamana Temple attracts thousands of visitors and followers. One of the most frequented spiritual destinations in Nepal, the cable car or foot trek to this holy spot leads one to amazement, devotion, and unspoiled beauty.
Location
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
About 105 kilometres west of Kathmandu, in the Gorkha district of Nepal, sits the Manakamana Temple. Rising 1,302 metres above sea level, the temple provides breathtaking views of the nearby hills and the Trishuli River. The path to the temple is as important as the destination itself since it provides several picturesque views and serene surroundings free from the rush of metropolitan life. Manakamana temple address is WH3M+MJM, Manakamana, Nepal.
How To Reach
Photo: Kabinder Magar / Wikimedia Commons
Getting to the Manakamana Temple can be an adventure in itself, with several options available depending on your preference:
By Cable Car: The most popular and convenient way to reach the temple is via the Manakamana Cable Car, which operates from Kurintar, about 100 kilometres from Kathmandu on the Prithvi Highway. The cable car ride takes around 10 minutes and offers panoramic views of the lush green hills, the Trishuli River, and the distant Himalayas.
By Hiking: For the more adventurous, hiking to the temple is an option. The trek starts from the base in Kurintar and takes around 3-4 hours, depending on your pace.
By Private Vehicle: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Kurintar from Kathmandu or Pokhara by private car or taxi. The drive from Kathmandu takes about 3-4 hours, while from Pokhara, it takes around 2-3 hours. Once at Kurintar, you can take the cable car to the temple.
By Bus: Regular buses and microbuses run between Kathmandu/Pokhara and Kurintar. This is a budget-friendly option for those who do not mind public transportation. The bus ride can take 3-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Places To Visit Around Manakamana Temple
While the Manakamana Temple Nepal is the primary attraction, these nearby sites are worth visiting to enrich your cultural and spiritual journey;
1. Gorkha Durbar
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 20 kilometres from the Manakamana Temple, Gorkha Durbar is a historic palace that once served as the royal residence of the Shah dynasty. The palace complex includes the Gorkha Museum, the temple of Gorakhnath, and the famous Gorkha Palace itself. The site offers a glimpse into Nepal’s rich history and the origins of the nation’s unification. The view from the palace is stunning, with the Himalayas and surrounding valleys visible on a clear day.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM daily
2. Chitwan National Park
Photo: Vadim Tolbatov / Wikimedia Commons
About 70 kilometres from Manakamana, Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to see endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, and various bird species. Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, canoe rides, and guided nature walks. Chitwan is a perfect addition to a spiritual journey, providing a chance to reconnect with nature.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM daily
3. Bandipur
Photo: Bijay Chaurasia / Wikimedia Commons
A charming hilltop town located about 60 kilometres from the Manakamana Temple, Bandipur is known for its preserved traditional architecture, scenic views, and tranquil ambience. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history, making it an ideal place to unwind after your visit to the temple. Visitors can explore ancient temples, take in panoramic views of the Himalayas, and enjoy the slow-paced lifestyle of this picturesque town. The town’s tranquil ambience and slow-paced lifestyle provide an ideal retreat after a spiritual visit to Manakamana.
Timings: Open all day
4. Pokhara
Photo: Bijay Chaurasia / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Approximately 80 kilometres from the Manakamana Temple, Pokhara is a popular destination known for its stunning natural beauty and serene lakes. The city is famous for Phewa Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating with views of the Annapurna mountain range. Other attractions include the Devi’s Fall, a spectacular waterfall, and the World Peace Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Pokhara is also a gateway for trekking adventures in the Annapurna region.
Timings: Open all day
Where To Stay
Photo: Kurt Kaiser / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation near Manakamana Temple caters to various budgets, with options ranging from basic lodges to comfortable hotels. In Kurintar, close to the cable car station, several guesthouses offer essential amenities for pilgrims and tourists. Hotel Manakamana provides modern comforts and traditional Nepali cuisine. For a more luxurious experience, the Riverside Springs Resort in Kurintar offers upscale facilities, including a swimming pool, spa, and scenic riverside views. Travellers can also choose to stay in Gorkha or Bandipur, where a wider selection of accommodations offers traditional charm with modern conveniences.
Where To Eat
Photo: ja:User:松岡明芳 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dining options near Manakamana Temple and Kurintar feature a variety of local and international cuisines. Small eateries around the temple serve authentic Nepali dishes like dal bhat, gundruk, and momos, offering a taste of traditional flavours. For more variety, hotel and resort restaurants in Kurintar, such as Riverside Springs Resort, provide a mix of Nepali, Indian, and Continental dishes. If you’re hiking to the temple, it’s wise to carry snacks, but local tea houses along the route also offer hearty meals.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
The ideal time to visit Manakamana Temple is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. These periods offer pleasant weather, with clear skies and mild temperatures, enhancing the pilgrimage experience. Autumn aligns with major Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding cultural richness to your visit. Winter (December to February) brings colder weather but offers spectacular Himalayan views. Manakamana temple timings are 4 AM to 7 pm.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Lodo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Cost Of The Trip:
The cost to visit the Manakamana Temple can vary depending on your mode of transportation, accommodation choices, and dining preferences. For budget travellers, the daily expenses can range from $20-30 / ₹1,600-2,400, covering basic lodging, meals, and transportation. If you prefer a more comfortable stay with better amenities, you might budget around $50-80 / ₹4,000-6,400 per day. For luxury travellers, staying at high-end resorts and dining at top-rated restaurants could increase daily expenses to $100 / ₹8,000 or more.
Tips For Travellers:
- As the temple is a sacred site, it’s important to dress appropriately, covering shoulders and knees.
- Shoes must be removed before entering the temple premises, so consider wearing easily removable footwear.
- Avoid touching religious artefacts without permission, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
- Ask for permission before taking Manakamana Temple photos, especially of people or inside temple areas.
- Many small shops and eateries near the temple may not accept cards, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash.
Manakamana Temple offers a blend of spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Nepal. Whether you seek divine blessings or wish to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, this sacred site has something for everyone. Ready to plan your trip? Book your journey with TripXL for an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs. Start your spiritual adventure today.
Cover Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
