On a ridge above the Trishuli River, Manakamana is one of Nepal's most popular pilgrimage temples, believed to fulfil the wishes of devotees.
Quick answer: the temple is reached by the Manakamana cable car, opened in November 1998, which runs about 2.8 km from Kurintar on the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway in about 10 minutes. It's an easy stop on the way to Pokhara or Chitwan.
The temple
A pagoda-style temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, a form of Parvati. Pilgrims offer flowers, coconuts and, traditionally, animal sacrifices. Queues can be long on Saturdays and festival days.
The cable car
The ride offers views of the Trishuli valley and, on clear days, distant mountains. It was the first passenger cable car in Nepal.
Tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid queues.
- Dress modestly and follow temple etiquette.
- Combine with Gorkha, Bandipur or the journey to Chitwan.
Stay nearby at Kurintar; see hill town stays. See also Gorkha guide.