On a ridge above the Trishuli River, Manakamana is one of the most visited temples in Nepal. Devotees believe the goddess Bhagwati, worshipped here as Manakamana, grants wishes. Since 1998 a cable car from Kurintar, on the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway, has carried pilgrims up in about 10 minutes, replacing a long, steep walk.
Quick answer: Manakamana is reached by cable car from Kurintar, about 3–4 hours from Kathmandu or 3 hours from Pokhara. The ride takes about 10 minutes. Allow 2 hours for a visit. Saturdays and festivals are very busy.
Manakamana Temple at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| District | Gorkha |
| Access | Cable car from Kurintar (about 10 minutes) |
| Cable car opened | 1998 |
| Belief | Wish-fulfilling goddess |
| Time needed | About 2 hours |
Tips
- Go early on weekdays to avoid long queues.
- Combine with a Trishuli rafting trip or a drive to Pokhara or Chitwan.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Manakamana is an easy stop on the Kathmandu–Pokhara road. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.