Trip Highlight

Duration: One-day tour
Distance: 282 km round trip

Trip Description

Situated in Gorkha, in the western region of Nepal, Manakamana Mandir (temple) is dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Bhagawati, a divine incarnation of Lord Shiva’s consort, Parvati. It is believed that worshipping the Manakamana goddess fulfill one’s desires and the temple is thronged by newlyweds.

The Kathmandu to Manakamana tour starts with an early morning drive (06:00) to the Nagdhunga checkpoint from whence you exit Kathmandu and follow the Prithvi Highway. The scenic 4.5 hrs drive dramatically winds from Nagdhunga to Naubise and thereafter follows the Trishuli Highway up to Kurintar.

There is plenty to see and experience on the drive; beautiful lush-green rolling hills on the other side of the river, scattered villages and pockets of highway towns, and local produce, from vegetables to fruits to fresh fish, are sold by locals, small tea houses and eateries.

At Kurintar, you can purchase the cable car (gondola lift) tickets at the Manakamana Cable Car Station for a short 15m ride. The ride itself offers wonderful views of the Trishuli and Marshyangdi valley and mountain ranges up north

It is customary to sacrifice animals to temples dedicated to Bhagwati and with a continuous flow of worshippers, Manakamana temple has an abettor where chickens and goats are sacrificed inside the temple premises. For some, the gory sight can be repulsive. For nature lovers, the nearby helipad, a short distance from the temple, offers excellent views of the Manaslu, Himalchuli and Annapurna mountains to the north.

Highways in Nepal aren’t always top-notch so a comfortable ride is a must. We suggest a sedan for up to 3 people, an SUV/jeep for up to 6, a Hiace up to 12 and a Sutlej/coaster for more than 12.

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