The Chandimai Temple, established in 1915 in Nayabazar, Pokhara, is set to be linked with religious tourism as part of a new initiative. This historical temple, located near the Regional Museum and the Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya University office, was originally founded by local ancestors beneath a gallecha tree, according to Tej Bahadur Bhujel, a local social worker and president of the Chandimai Seva Samiti.
Bhujel shared that the temple has been relocated three times since its establishment. After being initially founded at its original location, it was moved to the current site near the Akhtiyar office before finally being settled in Darbarthok. Despite its age and historical significance, the temple has not yet received the attention or promotion it deserves.
According to inscriptions at the temple, it was first built in 1915 and later reconstructed in 2025 BS with the efforts of Jeet Bahadur Bhujel. “The relocation of the temple may have been due to the growing population and changing needs of the time,” said Bhujel. “Even though it is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara, it has not been widely recognized due to a lack of promotion.”
Devotees visit the temple with the belief that their wishes will be fulfilled through prayers and worship. Bhujel emphasized that there is a long-term vision to promote the temple as a religious tourism destination by showcasing its historical significance. The original stone idol from the time of its establishment remains in the temple, and every year on the first day of Baisakh, a special ceremony is held with sacrifices and prayers for collective well-being.
The local ward office has contributed a total of NPR 5.4 million towards the development of infrastructure around the temple, according to Bhujel.
The Chandimai Temple has also become a center for social awareness and community activism in the area. The Chandika Aama Group, formed in the temple’s name, plays a crucial role in promoting social awareness, said Bimala Ranabhat, the group’s founding secretary and former president. Currently, 75 women from the area are members of this group.
“We have been organizing festivals during Navadurga,” Ranabhat added. The temple’s premises also house the office of the local Tole Development Organization and a yoga hall, which have significantly supported social activities in the community.
With continued efforts to preserve its historical and religious significance, the Chandimai Temple is poised to become a key destination for religious tourists visiting Pokhara.
Source: RSS
