The Chyawan Dham in Gachhepani is undergoing significant development, transforming into a ‘Mini Muktinath’ with infrastructure that mirrors the revered Muktinath Temple. This development aims to establish Chyawan Dham as a major religious and tourist destination.
The complex features several temples, including the Shukleswar Mahadev Temple, and shrines dedicated to Sun Narayan, Lakshmi Narayan, Durga Bhawani, and Ganesh, attracting numerous devotees. The site also boasts one hundred and eight water spouts, one hundred and eight Omkar Kalpvriksha trees, one hundred and eight Shiva Lingams, Moksha Kund, a senior citizens’ home, and a park.
In addition, a Buddhist monastery has been constructed to cater to Buddhist pilgrims, promoting religious tolerance and mutual respect among different faiths.
Residents are working diligently to position the site as a significant religious and tourist spot. Known as Mini Muktinath, it sees a surge of visitors during major festivals such as New Year, Saune Sombar, Krishna Janmashtami, Balachaturdashi, and Shivaratri. The site also hosts an annual Shiva Purana event every Shrawan (monsoon season in Nepal). The Shukleswar Mahadev Temple at Chyawan Dham is believed to bring blessings of offspring to those without children.
A decade ago, the area along the Seti River was a daunting, narrow path with a less inviting appearance. Today, the transformed site is a beautiful, expansive destination, thanks to the efforts of the local community. The development has turned the once intimidating riverbank into a serene and welcoming pilgrimage site.
The transformation began in 2008 when land disputes threatened to undermine the area. Local organizations, such as the Bhulbhule Barahi Society and the Poon Magar Society, took action to protect the land by planting trees and erecting fences. The area’s revival gained momentum after local leader Rishiguru Shriram Paudel highlighted its significance as a sacred site.
In 2010, a 13-member committee led by Lal Prasad Gartaula was formed to oversee infrastructure development. A Mahayagna was held to raise funds, collecting NPR 15 million, which facilitated the construction of the temple and other infrastructure. Over the past decade, more than NPR 30 million has been invested in the development.
With the support of the Gandaki Province Government, NPR 2.5 million has been allocated for the creation of an artificial mountain with one hundred and eight spouts. This addition has increased the number of internal tourists visiting the temple.
Chyawan Dham is also strategically positioned along the Millennium Trek, which connects Tanahun and Syangja districts. The trek, spanning 72 kilometers, starts from Chyawan Dham and is expected to boost employment and income generation, further enhancing the site’s appeal as a religious and tourist destination.
Chyawan Dham’s evolution into a Mini Muktinath highlights a successful community-led transformation, positioning the site as a significant hub for religious tourism and cultural heritage.
