Manakamana Temple Tour: A Spiritual Journey to the Heart of Nepal

27th Jan, 2026

- himalayaheart

Manakamana Temple Tour: A Spiritual Journey to the Heart of Nepal

Introduction: Why Visit Manakamana Temple?

Nestled in the lush hills of Gorkha district, Manakamana Temple is one of Nepal’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Thousands of devotees visit this sacred temple every year to offer prayers to Goddess Bhagwati, believed to fulfill the heartfelt wishes ("mana" = heart, "kamana" = wish) of her worshippers.

Whether you're a spiritual seeker, cultural enthusiast, or nature lover, the Manakamana Temple tour offers an unforgettable blend of divine energy, scenic beauty, and cultural richness.

Where is Manakamana Temple Located?

Manakamana Temple is perched at an altitude of 1,302 meters in the Gorkha district of central Nepal. It’s roughly:

105 km west of Kathmandu
94 km east of Pokhara

Accessible by both road and cable car, it provides an enriching travel experience for tourists from all walks of life.

The Manakamana Cable Car Experience

One of the most unique ways to reach the temple is via the Manakamana Cable Car, Nepal’s first cable car system. Operated by Manakamana Darshan Pvt. Ltd, this thrilling ride covers:

Distance: 2.8 km
Time: ~10 minutes
Elevation Gain: 1,060 meters
Views: Trisuli River, terraced fields, and Himalayan foothills

Ticket Information (As of Latest Update):

Adults: NPR 700 (One way), NPR 1,280 (Round trip)
Children & Senior Citizens: Discounts available
Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (Subject to seasonal changes)

History and Significance of Manakamana Temple

The temple dates back to the 17th century and is dedicated to Goddess Manakamana, an incarnation of Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. According to legend:

The queen of Gorkha was believed to possess divine powers. After her death, a farmer saw milk and blood coming from a stone, and upon excavation, the site of the Manakamana Temple was discovered.

The temple became a spiritual hub where wishes are believed to be granted if made with a pure heart.

What to Expect at the Temple

Architecture

Traditional pagoda-style temple
Carved wooden beams and stone pathways
Peaceful courtyard with prayer wheels

Rituals & Offerings

Animal sacrifices (mainly goats and pigeons), especially during festivals
Offerings of flowers, incense, vermillion, and sweets
Devotees often tie red and yellow threads for wish fulfillment

Best Time to Visit Manakamana Temple

While the temple is open year-round, the ideal time to visit is:

Season	Weather	Highlights
October–December	Clear skies, mild temperatures	Perfect for views & festivals like Dashain
March–May	Blooming rhododendrons	Ideal weather & scenic beauty
Monsoon (Jun–Aug)	Rainy, slippery trails	Fewer tourists but less visibility

Travel Tips for Your Manakamana Temple Tour

Footwear: You’ll need to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Dress modestly: Traditional or conservative clothing is appreciated.
Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle.
Photography: Not allowed inside the sanctum.
Booking: Cable car tickets can get crowded during holidays—book early.

Accommodation Near Manakamana Temple

There are several lodges, guesthouses, and homestays near the temple area and in Kurintar (the base station). Popular options include:

Hotel Riverside Spring Resort (Kurintar)
Manakamana Temple View Hotel
Local homestays for authentic cultural immersion

What to Eat: Local Cuisine You Must Try

Dal Bhat (Lentils & Rice)
Sel Roti (Nepali doughnut)
Gundruk (fermented leafy greens)
Buff Momo or Veg Momo (Nepali dumplings)

Many eateries near the temple offer traditional Nepali thalis with organic produce grown in the hills.

Souvenirs to Bring Home

Religious items like rudraksha beads and metal idols
Handicrafts from local artisans
Locally grown spices and tea

How to Get There

Option 1: By Road + Cable Car

Drive or take a bus to Kurintar, then take the cable car to the temple.

Option 2: Trekking Route

For the adventurous, there's a steep but scenic 3–4 hour trek from Abukhaireni.

Final Thoughts

The Manakamana Temple tour is more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a spiritual experience woven into the fabric of Nepalese culture and beliefs. Whether you seek blessings, cultural enrichment, or Himalayan serenity, this journey offers all in one unforgettable package.