A large-scale lake is being constructed at Aandhimul, a religious and tourist site in Tanahun, to boost tourism. The Aabukhaireni Rural Municipality has initiated the construction of the lake, spanning 15 ropani, in Ward No. 1. The project began with an allocated budget of NPR 4 million for the current fiscal year, according to the rural municipality’s chairperson, Shukra Chuman.
Chairperson Chuman mentioned that the primary goal is to initiate tourism activities in the area, with the lake serving as a key attraction. “We have begun the construction with the vision of developing Aandhimul as a religious destination. The lake is expected to take shape by the end of this fiscal year, and in the second phase, we will proceed with other infrastructure developments,” he said. He also shared plans to collaborate with private sectors for building walking trails and other tourist infrastructures, including electricity generation projects.
Himal Thapa, Chairperson of the Aandhimul Religious and Tourism Management Committee, expressed confidence that the construction of the lake will significantly boost domestic tourism. He noted that the temple at Aandhimul already attracts visitors from various places for both worship and sightseeing. He also explained the cultural significance of the pond, which houses fish considered sacred water deities. “If the fish die, a ritual funeral must be performed, a tradition that has been followed for generations,” Thapa said.
The temple at Aandhimul, which honors the deity Aandhimul Barahi, has been a place of worship since ancient times. The temple was constructed in 1978 (2035 B.S.) through the active efforts of a local resident, Pakuli Pariyar. Annually, on Haribodhini Ekadashi, a floral procession is held, and decorative arches are erected in the temple grounds. The local Magar community also conducts worship rituals related to agriculture, both when planting and harvesting crops.
Believers from across the country have increasingly flocked to Aandhimul in recent years, drawn by the belief that wishes made here are fulfilled. Its proximity to the Prithvi Highway has also contributed to its development as a tourist destination. Aandhimul is located 2.5 kilometers from the Prithvi Highway, with 1 kilometer of the road now paved, according to the rural municipality.
The temple complex, which features 23 water spouts and a pagoda-style temple, continues to attract tourists. A major fair is held on the occasion of Ekadashi, with regular worship taking place every day except for the month of Saun and during new moon days. Visitors can also witness traditional practices, such as the release of pigeons and animal sacrifices at the temple. Due to its religious significance, Aandhimul also serves as a popular spot for picnics, drawing people from far and wide.
The combination of the pagoda-style temple, park, two ponds, and 23 fish-shaped water spouts has enhanced the site’s appeal. According to Thapa, devotees from Tanahun, Kaski, Syangja, and other regions regularly visit the site. “People come here because they believe their wishes will be fulfilled. With improved tourism infrastructure and road conditions, it’s now more accessible, and once the lake is completed, it will become an even greater attraction,” Thapa added.Large-Scale Lake Construction Underway for Tourism Promotion in Tanahun’s Religious Site Aandhimul
