The sacred and popular tourist destination of Gosainsthan, located in Ward 6 of Banepa Municipality, has been beautifully adorned in preparation for the upcoming festival of Janai Purnima and Raksha Bandhan. The area is being spruced up with painting and other arrangements, particularly as commercial activity increases around Budol in Banepa, enhancing the overall festival experience.
Gosainsthan, often associated with the revered Gosainkunda of Rasuwa, attracts devotees who are unable to visit the latter. The site holds religious and natural significance, drawing pilgrims who seek both spiritual solace and natural beauty.
Bishnunaryan Shrestha, Chairman of the Gosainsthan Conservation Committee, noted that the site experiences a significant influx of visitors during Janai Purnima, with many coming to perform rituals and worship at the Shiva temple. He anticipates a rise in visitor numbers compared to the previous year.
“The festival boosts commercial activity around the Budol area. Therefore, in addition to painting, we are also focusing on setting up drinking water, lighting, and security measures, including the deployment of police and volunteers for crowd management. Health assistance will also be provided,” Shrestha added.
The festival sees a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Bon practices. Hindus perform rituals at the Shiva temple, Brahmins conduct Raksha Bandhan ceremonies, while the Tamang community features traditional drumming and rituals. The Newar community offers grains, and the Brahmins perform Janai rituals along with tying Raksha Bandhan threads.
Local social worker Bhairav K.C. mentioned that those unable to visit Gosainkunda in Rasuwa often come to Gosainsthan, believing that visiting this site will fulfill their spiritual wishes. According to local lore, the festival marks the time when Lord Shiva, having consumed the poison that emerged during the churning of the ocean, retreated to the Himalayas, and made his initial abode at Gosainsthan.
The Gosainsthan area is also known for its vibrant folk music and dance traditions. Raju Manandhar, the committee’s Vice Secretary, pointed out that the festival attracts visitors from various regions including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Sindhupalchok, Ramechhap, and Dolakha.
Gosainsthan, situated on a green hill northeast of the historic town of Banepa, is renowned for its scenic beauty and religious significance. The site is notable for its panoramic view tower and its picturesque setting amidst lush greenery, providing a tranquil escape from urbanization and pollution.
Satchitanand K.C., Ward Chairman of Banepa-6, highlighted the increasing number of both domestic and international tourists, thanks to improvements in infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity. The area now features new facilities including a new Muktinath Temple, a Hanuman Temple, and a bell, making it an evolving religious and tourist destination.
Recent developments also include the construction of a new building for Ramayan bhajans, permanent toilets, and drinking water facilities. Additionally, a hiking trail connecting Temal, Namo Buddha, Dhulikhel, Gosainsthan, and Kashi Bhanshyang to Nagarkot is underway, with the budget allocated and work already started.
With these improvements and ongoing efforts, Gosainsthan continues to enhance its appeal as a significant religious and tourist destination, attracting visitors from across Nepal and beyond.
