Swargadwari Temple is a Hindu temple in Pyuthan District, Nepal. It is located at an altitude of 2,700 meters (8,900 feet) above sea level, on a hilltop in the Khal village.
It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism.
The temple is spread over a large area and includes several shrines dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, and other Hindu deities. The main shrine is known as Swargadwari Temple and is said to be the gateway to heaven. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and murals and is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over Nepal.
Swargadwari Temple is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking. The temple is about 2 days walk from the town of Bhingri, and can also be reached by road. The trek to Swargadwari is beautiful, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
History
The history of Swargadwari Temple is shrouded in mystery and legend. According to one legend, the temple was founded by Guru Maharaj Narayan Khatri (Swami Hamsananda), who lived most of his life in the vicinity herding and milking thousands of cows. One day, some of his devotees followed him to see where he took the cows, but they could never find him. According to older people in the locality, he came from Rolpa to the present temple site and asked the owner of that land (the landlord) to donate the land to him.
The landlord agreed, and Guru Maharaj built a small temple on the land. He also started a school for the local children and taught them about Hinduism and Vedic philosophy. Guru Maharaj was a kind and compassionate man, and everyone in the village loved him.
Another legend says that Swargadwari Temple is the gateway to heaven. According to the legend, the Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata, visited Swargadwari after they had defeated their cousins in battle. They were exhausted and wounded, and they prayed to Vishnu for help. Vishnu appeared to them and told them that they could enter heaven through Swargadwari. The Pandavas entered the temple, and they were never seen again.
Major Attraction
Pilgrimage Site: Swargadwari is considered a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus in Nepal. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings, perform religious rituals, and immerse themselves in spiritual practices. Also, meeting fellow pilgrims and engaging in spiritual discussions can be a rewarding aspect of the visit.
Religious Significance: The temple is associated with the belief that it serves as a gateway to heaven (“swarga” in Sanskrit), where devotees can attain spiritual elevation and liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. The location’s serene environment and panoramic views add to its religious appeal.
Festivals: The temple hosts various religious festivals throughout the year, with Janmashtami (the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna) being one of the most prominent celebrations. During these festivals, the temple sees a surge in pilgrim activity and devotion.
Trekking and Access: To reach the Swargadwari Temple, pilgrims typically embark on a trekking journey that involves ascending steep and scenic trails. The journey itself is often considered a part of the spiritual experience. The trekking route passes through picturesque landscapes, forests, and villages.
Local Culture: The Swargadwari region is also known for its unique local culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local way of life while exploring the temple and its surroundings. Additionally, In nearby villages, you might find local handicrafts, traditional artwork, and souvenirs that provide insights into the region’s artistic heritage.
Meditative Environment: The peaceful and quiet surroundings of the temple, along with the stunning natural beauty, create an ideal setting for meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual contemplation.
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How to Reach Swargadwari
By road:
The nearest town to Swargadwari Temple is Bhingri, which is about 4 hours drive from Butwal. There are regular buses and jeeps that run from Butwal to Bhingri. From Bhingri, you can hire a jeep or taxi to take you to Swargadwari Temple, which is about 13 kilometers away.
By trekking:
The trek to Swargadwari Temple is beautiful, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trek starts from the town of Bhingri, and takes about 2 days to complete. The trail is well-maintained, and there are several lodges and teahouses along the way.
