Manakamana Temple sits on a hilltop in the Gorkha district of Nepal, dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati and known across the country as Manakamana Devi Temple. It is one of Nepal's best-known Hindu shrines, and it draws pilgrims who come seeking the fulfilment of a wish.
Getting there
The temple is reached by cable car, which is part of the visit in itself. The ride gives a view over the surrounding hills as you rise toward the shrine, and it is a common first experience for those arriving from the lowland towns below.
What to expect
- A active pilgrimage site, so visitors should expect devotees, offerings and ceremony.
- Stunning Himalayan views from the hilltop, which many visitors come to see as much as the temple.
- An atmosphere shaped by faith; a respectful, quiet manner suits the setting best.
Planning your visit
Manakamana lies in Gorkha, in the hills of central Nepal, and its address is Manakamana, Gorkha 34000. The temple can be contacted by telephone at +977-64-560001 for current information before you travel. Because it is a working place of worship and a popular destination, allow time for the journey and for the crowds that gather, particularly on busy days.
For anyone interested in Nepali religious life and in the country's mountain landscape, Manakamana offers a visit that combines a sacred site with one of the region's wider views.