The Manakamana Temple, located in the Gorkha district of Nepal, holds great significance as a sacred site dedicated to Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. The name “Manakamana” is derived from two words: “mana,” meaning heart, and “kamana,” meaning wish. It is believed that making heartfelt wishes here can lead to their fulfillment.
Nestled about 140 km away from Kathmandu, this temple is positioned 12 km to the south of Gorkha town, perched at an elevation of 1302 meters above sea level. Looking towards the north, visitors can feast their eyes on the grandeur of the Manaslu-Himachali and Annapurna mountain ranges. On the southern and western sides, the river valleys of Trisuli and Marsyangdi form a breathtaking landscape.
The Origin and Legend of Manakamana Temple
The story of the Manakamana temple dates back to the 17th century when there was a king named Ram Shah in Gorkha. It is said that the king’s queen had some special divine power, but only a devotee named Lakhan Thapa knew about it. Unfortunately, the king found out about this secret, and soon after, he died unexpectedly.
The queen, before she left, told Lakhan Thapa she’d come back in a new way. She did a special ceremony called Sati, sacrificing herself in fire. Some months later, people talked about a rock found by a farmer. It seemed to give out both milk and blood. When Lakhan Thapa heard, he rushed to see.
He thought the queen had come back as this rock. To honor her, they did Hindu ceremonies at this spot. It later became the start of the temple we have today. Lakhan Thapa’s family still looks after the temple.
Renovations and Significance of Manakamana Temple
The Manakamana Temple has undergone multiple renovations. It features a unique four-tiered roof, with its main entrance facing southwest. Each day, the temple’s priest performs private prayers and ceremonies before opening the doors to visitors. Those who come to visit believe that Manakamana Devi hears their wishes and imparts her blessings.
Transport Options to Reach Manakamana Temple
You can reach the Manakamana Temple in two ways: by cable car or by walking. The cable car ride is a short 2.8 kilometers and takes about 10 minutes. It operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Manakamana Cable Car, installed by an Austrian company, has been running since November 1998. There are a total of 34 cable cars: 31 for passengers and 3 for carrying cargo. Each cable car can carry up to 6 people, and the entire system can transport 600 passengers every hour. This cable car system has made it much easier for visitors to reach the temple.
Although taking the cable car is convenient, hiking to the Manakamana Temple is a wonderful experience too, taking around 4 hours. Along the way, hikers pass by orange fields, forests, local villages, and the beautiful Trisuli River. The journey provides breathtaking views of green hills, valleys, stepped fields, and the towering Manaslu-Himachali and Annapurna mountain ranges that surround the temple area.
Cable Car Information for Visiting Manakamana Temple
Bottom station altitude: 258 meters
Top Station Altitude: 1302 meters
NO. of carriers
Passenger: 34
Freight: 3
No. of Person/Carrier: 6
Passenger Capacity Per Hour: 660
Length of Cable Car: 6 Meters/second
No. of towers: 20
Cable Car Technology: Doppelmayr, Austria
Date of Commercial Operation: 24th November 1998
: 8th Mangsir 2055
Reasons to Visit Manakamana Temple
The temple brings in lots of people every year for different reasons. Some couples come to pray for a happy and long marriage, while students seek blessings for doing well in their studies. Business folks come hoping for success in their ventures.
Manakamana has also become a top spot for people who love trekking. The cable car ride gives amazing views, which makes it even more popular for tourists.
Manakamana Cable Car Tariff:
| Category | Two Way | One Way |
| Normal | NPR 770 | NPR 450 |
| Child | NPR 460 | NPR 270 |
| Student | NPR 575 | NPR 335 |
| Senior Citizen | NPR 540 | NPR 315 |
| Differently abled | NPR 385 | NPR 225 |
| Goat | …… | NPR 275 |
| Normal (Indian) | INR 670 | INR 400 |
| Child(Indian) | INR 670 | INR 400 |
| Normal (SAARC/Chinese) | US$ 10 | US$ 6 |
| Child (SAARC/Chinese) | US $ 7 | US $ 4 |
| Normal (Foreigner) | US $ 20 | US $ 11 |
| Child (Foreigner) | US $ 15 | US $ 8 |
ID card is a must for STUDENT & ELDERLY discount(Applicable for Nepali Only)
Tickets once sold are non refundable
The rates are in Nepali Rupees (NPR) and include all taxes and VAT, unless specified otherwise. For students and elderly individuals (applicable to Nepali citizens only), it is essential to have a valid ID card to avail of the discount. Please note that tickets, once purchased, are nonrefundable.
How to Reach Manakamana Temple from Kathmandu:
Image Source: Google
By Road:
- Private Car/Taxi: Hire a private car or taxi for a 3-4 hour drive to Kurintar, the starting point for the Manakamana Cable Car. Park at designated areas and proceed to the cable car station.
- Bus/Microbus: Take a tourist or local bus or microbus from Kathmandu to Kurintar. Departures from Gongabu Bus Park or Kalanki are common. Confirm schedules and book tickets ahead, especially during peak times.
Travel Tips for Manakamana Temple:
- Modest Dress Code: Wear long pants and cover your shoulders to respect local culture and religious norms.
- Observe Local Etiquette: Always walk clockwise around temples and remove your shoes before entering.
- Check Cable Car Timings: Verify the operating hours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water and snacks, especially in warmer weather.
- Respect Animal Rights: Be sensitive to local rituals involving animals.
- Consider a Local Guide: Hiring a guide can provide insights into history and customs.
- Altitude Awareness: Be aware of altitude effects and take it easy if needed.
Visiting Manakamana Temple offers a spiritual journey. These tips ensure a seamless and enriching experience, allowing you to appreciate the region’s beauty and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Manakamana Temple:
What is the significance of Manakamana Temple?
- Manakamana Temple is a sacred site dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, believed to fulfill the heartfelt wishes of visitors.
Where is Manakamana Temple located?
- The temple is situated in the Gorkha district of Nepal, approximately 140 km from Kathmandu.
How can I reach Manakamana Temple from Kathmandu?
- You can reach Manakamana Temple from Kathmandu by either hiring a private car/taxi for a 3-4 hour drive to Kurintar or taking a tourist/local bus or microbus to Kurintar.
What is the best time to visit Manakamana Temple?
- The temple is accessible year-round. However, it’s advisable to check cable car timings and consider weather conditions before planning your visit.
Can I visit Manakamana Temple on foot?
- Yes, you can trek to Manakamana Temple, which takes approximately 4 hours. The hiking route offers beautiful scenery and is a great option for adventure seekers.
What is the cable car system like at Manakamana Temple?
- The cable car travels a distance of 2.8 kilometers in approximately 10 minutes. There are a total of 34 cable cars, with 31 designated for passengers and 3 for cargo. Each cable car has the capacity to carry up to 6 people.
Are there any specific dress codes or etiquette rules to follow when visiting the temple?
- Yes, it’s recommended for visitors to dress modestly, wearing long pants and covering their shoulders, to show respect for the local culture and religious customs. Additionally, it’s customary to walk in a clockwise direction around the temple and to take off your shoes before going inside.
Why do people visit Manakamana Temple?
- People come to this place for a range of reasons. They seek blessings for a joyful marriage, achievements in studies, prosperity in business, and also to enjoy trekking and the breathtaking cable car ride.
Is it necessary to hire a local guide when visiting Manakamana Temple?
- Though it’s not obligatory, hiring a local guide can enrich your visit. They can offer valuable information about the temple’s history, local traditions, and the most picturesque spots to explore.
What are the rates for the Manakamana Cable Car?
- The cost of cable car tickets depends on different categories, like regular fares, fares for children, discounted rates for students, and special rates for senior citizens. There may also be varying rates for Indian, SAARC/Chinese, and foreign visitors. Make sure to have the right identification to avail of any discounts.
Are there any special considerations for altitude when visiting Manakamana Temple?
- Manakamana isn’t located at very high altitudes, but a few visitors might feel slight effects from the altitude. It’s a good idea to be mindful of this and take things at your own pace if necessary.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Manakamana Temple itself?
- No, usually there isn’t an entrance fee to visit the temple. However, you might need to pay for things like cable car tickets or other forms of transportation to get there.
Can I make offerings or prayers at Manakamana Temple?
- Absolutely, you’re welcome to make offerings and say prayers at the temple. It’s a common practice for many visitors who come to seek blessings and offer prayers for their wishes and well-being.
Is photography allowed at Manakamana Temple?
- When you visit, it’s a good idea to check with the temple authorities or local guides about the photography and videography rules. Different places may have different policies in this regard.
