"श्री मनकामना मन्दिर"
Manakamana Temple is situated in the Gorkha district of Nepal and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati believed to have the power to fulfill the heartfelt wishes (Mana = Mind/Heart, Kamana = Wish) of her devotees.
Perched on a ridge overlooking the deep river gorges of Trishuli and Marshyangdi, the temple draws pilgrims from all over Nepal and India. Most visitors now arrive via a modern cable car connecting Kurinttar on the Prithvi Highway to the hilltop temple village.
The deity and daily ritual of Manakamana Temple, its building tradition, its main festival, and the etiquette expected of visitors.
The temple's origins trace back to the reign of King Ram Shah in the 17th century, whose queen was believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Bhagwati.
Over centuries, it has served as a revered spiritual focal point for the Gorkha royalty and soldiers before embarking on major campaigns or life journeys.
The temple is packed during Dashain and Nag Panchami festivals with long queues of devotees waiting hours to offer animal or fruit sacrifices and seek divine blessings.
Book cable car tickets in advance during weekends and festive seasons when wait times increase.
Respect local pilgrim queues and maintain modest attire throughout the temple square.
Manakamana Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati (Parvati) and stands at about 1,302 m in Manakamana, Gorkha, GORKHA DISTRICT. The shrine follows the Sanatana Dharma tradition and is built in the Four-tiered Pagoda style, with details characteristic of the Shaktism school.
The temple sits beside Ridge Overlooking Trishuli River, which has shaped both its ritual life and the way pilgrims approach it. Worship is led by Shakta Tradition, and the daily routine of prayers and offerings continues alongside visitor traffic.
The most comfortable months to visit Manakamana Temple are September to June (Sep–Jun), when temperatures are moderate and access is reliable. The main festival, Dashain & Nag Panchami, is spectacular but crowded, so arrive early if you want space to observe the rituals.
Outside festival periods, early morning and late afternoon are the calmest times at Manakamana Temple. Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering the shrine, and check whether photography is allowed near the Goddess Bhagwati (Parvati) image.