The ancient town of Banepa in Kavrepalanchok district came alive with the vibrant celebration of the Janai Purnima festival, also known as Raksha Bandhan, at the sacred site of Gosainsthan. The festival observed on Shrawan Shukla Purnima, saw a large influx of devotees from various districts, with many arriving a day in advance to partake in the religious festivities.
The Gosainsthan site holds significant religious importance, often associated with the revered Gosainkunda in Rasuwa. This connection enhances its status as a vital spiritual destination. Every year, on Janai Purnima, devotees gather at the Shiva temple within Gosainsthan to renew their sacred threads (Janai) and seek blessings through worship and offerings. This year, the festival is set to take place on Monday, attracting a large number of participants.
The festival’s significance is underscored by the devotion of pilgrims who often prefer to walk to the site, embracing the spiritual journey. Both Hindu and Buddhist rituals are observed here, with Hindus performing prayers at the Shiva temple and receiving Raksha Bandhan and tika from Brahmins. Tamang communities, along with traditional shamans (Jhakris), also engage in their unique practices, including rituals accompanied by the rhythmic beating of drums.
The cultural vibrancy of the festival is further highlighted by the tradition of Tamang men and women singing dohori songs, and exchanging heartfelt emotions through music. The fair attracts devotees not only from Kavre but also from Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, and Sindhupalchok, enhancing its significance as a major regional event.
This year, the Gosainsthan area has been further organized and developed, according to Bheshraj Shah, Chairman of the Gosainsthan Conservation Committee. He noted a significant increase in the number of devotees since the lockdown period, with bustling commerce lining the streets from Banepa’s Budol area during the festival.
For those unable to undertake the arduous journey to Gosainkunda, Gosainsthan offers a spiritual alternative. Local elder Bhairav KC mentioned that visiting and performing rituals at Gosainsthan is believed to fulfill one’s desires and bring peace and prosperity to the family, just as visiting the original Gosainkunda would.
Situated to the northeast of Banepa, Gosainsthan Hill is a revered site known for its religious and ecotourism significance. Nestled between the bustling markets of Banepa and the tourist hub of Dhulikhel, the area is renowned for its Shiva temple, a viewing tower offering panoramic views, and the recently established Gurukul school, which has added to the area’s vibrancy.
The hill, with its serene and picturesque surroundings, offers an escape from the urban chaos, attracting visitors seeking both spiritual solace and natural beauty. The area has seen a rise in tourist visits, facilitated by improved infrastructure, including paved roads and the construction of new physical structures, making Gosainsthan an increasingly popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
On Fridays and Saturdays, the viewing tower and surrounding natural attractions draw many visitors. Local resident Deepak Karki observed that the construction of roads, stairs, and other facilities has boosted the number of visitors. Additionally, the area now features a new Muktinath temple, a Hanuman temple, a bell, a Ramayana bhajan hall, and a public restroom, with plans underway to develop a garden.
The recent establishment of the Naimisharanya Sanskrit Gurukul within the Gosainsthan temple complex marks another step towards preserving the site’s religious and cultural heritage. The completion of the paved road from the Arniko Highway in Dhulikhel to the Dhulikhel-Ravi-OP-Kashibhyanjang section has made the area more accessible, with the added attraction of a hiking route to the popular tourist destination of Nagarkot.
Gosainsthan’s unique blend of religious significance, cultural traditions, and natural beauty continues to draw increasing numbers of devotees and tourists alike, making it a prominent center of spirituality and tourism in the region.
