Pilgrims have begun arriving at the sacred site of Gosaikunda, located in the higher regions of Rasuwa, to participate in the ritual bath during Janai Purnima. The bathing festival, which starts from Nag Panchami and continues until Janai Purnima, has drawn a significant number of devotees this year.
According to Sanjiv DM, Chairman of the Gosaikunda Area Development Committee, it is estimated that around 15,000 devotees will visit Gosaikunda for the bathing festival this year. In anticipation of the crowds expected on Janai Purnima (Bhadra 3), security, healthcare, and water supply services have been arranged.
Chairman DM mentioned that all travelers from Rasuwa’s entry point, Betrawati, to Gosaikunda will receive district-level services. He also shared that a group of 20 pilgrims has set off towards Niladri Mountain, with reports indicating that they are currently climbing Suladri.
Gosaikunda is revered as a sacred site where Lord Shiva is believed to have resided. Given the altitude of 14,100 feet above sea level, altitude sickness can be an issue for pilgrims. To address this, health camps are being set up at Cholungpati, Lauribina, and Gosaikunda, as noted by Chairman DM.
Chief District Officer Bednidhi Khanal informed that 13 subcommittees have been formed to provide essential services for the convenience of the pilgrims. He assured that adequate security measures have been implemented and urged travelers to embark on their journey without hesitation.
In case of any problems during the journey, pilgrims are advised to contact security personnel, the District Administration Office, the District Police Office, the Armed Police Force, or the Gosaikunda Area Development Committee for assistance.
Doctors have advised pilgrims to consult the health camp at Cholungpati if they experience severe breathing issues at Lauribina. Elderly pilgrims recommend staying hydrated with glucose water, avoiding an empty stomach, and consuming items like ginger, lemon, and pickles for a smoother journey.
Local priest Tank Prasad Dhakal explained the traditional practices observed during the pilgrimage. Before leaving home, pilgrims seek blessings from their family deities, shave their heads, and bathe at Uttargaya Dham in Betrawati. They then ascend the mountains while chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” and finally reach Suladri, where they offer prayers.
Upon reaching Gosaikunda, pilgrims typically take one to three ritual baths in the holy lake and perform puja at Nilkantha Daha, believing that their wishes will be fulfilled.
The trek to Gosaikunda begins on foot from Dhunche, where transportation from Kathmandu ends. Along the route, there are lodges and hotels providing food and accommodation, ensuring that pilgrims face no difficulties, according to Hotel Entrepreneurs Association President Nishan Gajurel. He suggests spending a night in Dhunche before starting the climb the next day to acclimatize to the Himalayan environment.
Langtang National Park has urged all travelers to dispose of waste only in designated areas, refrain from cutting trees for walking sticks, and protect the animals encountered along the trail.
Chief District Officer Khanal also mentioned that the Gosaikunda Rural Municipality-6 office in Dhunche has arranged paid parking for private vehicles to ensure their security.
A cleanliness drive has been initiated to keep the Gosaikunda trekking route clean. The first phase, led by the District Administration Office, involved cleaning from Dhunche to Mini Gosaikunda, and further cleaning efforts will continue, as stated by Officer Khanal.
