Tuesday, December 29, 2009

“MANAKAMANA” the wish fulfilling Goddess

The Manakamana Devi’s temple is situated at Gorkha district in western region of Nepal. Since 17th century, Manakamana Devi has been widely venerated all over the Nepal because of the belief that she fulfills all the wishes.

The legend has it that Gorkha King Ram Shah’s (1614-1636) Queen possessed divine powers- a fact known only to Lakhan Thapa, her devotee. One day, when the King discovered that his Queen was a Goddess, he suddenly died. As per the custom, the Queen had to commit sati on his cremation pyre. Consoling the lamenting Lakhan, she promised to reappear near his home. Six month later, a farmer hit a stone while ploughing his field and noticed blood and milk flowing from it. The flow ceased when Lakhan worshipped the stone with Tantric rituals. The site became the foundation of the present day shrine- the current pujari being the 17th generation descendant of Lakhan Thapa.

Renovated many times over the centuries, the Manakamana Temple has a four-tiered pagoda style roof with the entrance facing southeast. The pujari performs daily prayers and rituals behind closed doors before allowing the public to enter. Manakamana Devi is widely believed to bless her devotees by fulfilling their wishes. The shrine is accessible in about 10 minutes with Nepal’s first cable car.

‘MANAKAMANA CABLE CAR’ Nepal’s only cable car

Ever since its inauguration by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Dipendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev on November 24, 1998, Manakamana Cable Car has immensely contributed to the religious and touristic significance of the area. Besides drastically reducing the previously arduous five hour climb to a mere 10- minute comfort trip, it has revolutionized the tourism and transportation sector of Nepal by providing ultra-modern facility of international standards. Manakamana Cable Car has been able to garner overwhelming support from its customers within a short period of operation. This is attributable to proven records of safety, comfort, cleanliness and customer service, combined with the cultural importance of the Manakamana region and superb natural surroundings.

Journey to Manakamana can be exhilarating both spiritually and visually. Spectacular views from around the temple area include deep valleys, terraced fields as well as the Manaslu- Himalchuli and Annapurna ranges.

Other different facilities such as communication facilities, parking space, resorts etc are also available here. Here are international classes of restaurants and hotels serving local, Indian and continental cuisine and souvenir shop, kiddies games etc for enjoy.


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