Manakamana temple
Manakamana Temple
Manakamana is one of the most famous and sacred temples in Nepal. It is located in the Gorkha district, high on a hill overlooking the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. The name Manakamana comes from two words: mana (heart or wish) and kamana (desire). People believe that the goddess Manakamana fulfills the wishes of her devotees.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Durga. According to legend, the goddess revealed her divine powers during the reign of King Ram Shah of Gorkha in the 17th century. Since then, Manakamana has been an important pilgrimage site for Hindus from Nepal and India.
Many devotees visit the temple to pray for success, good health, and happiness. Some offer flowers, fruits, and coconuts, while others perform traditional animal sacrifices as part of their religious belief. The temple becomes especially crowded during festivals like Dashain and other special occasions.
One of the most exciting parts of visiting Manakamana is the cable car service. It is the first cable car system in Nepal and takes visitors from Kurintar to the temple in just a few minutes. During the ride, passengers can enjoy beautiful views of green hills, rivers, and distant mountains.
Manakamana is not only a religious site but also a place of natural beauty and cultural importance. It represents the strong faith, traditions, and heritage of the Nepalese people, making it a meaningful destination for both pilgrims and tourists.