Tourism Info Nepal

Rising Influx of Religious Tourists at Ichhakamana Temple, Chitwan

Rising Influx of Religious Tourists at Ichhakamana Temple, Chitwan

The Ichhakamana Temple, located in Ichhakamana Rural Municipality-5 of Chitwan, has seen a significant rise in religious tourism. The temple, known for its historic and religious significance, has become a popular destination for devotees, especially after the nearby Manakamana Temple in Gorkha gained fame. With increased promotion and the temple’s reconstruction, the number of visitors has surged.

According to the temple’s priest, Hark Bahadur Gurung, the temple attracts large crowds, particularly on Saturdays and public holidays. “The temple has undergone reconstruction, and with various essential structures now in place, the increase in visitor numbers is also due to the growing publicity in recent years,” he explained.

The Ichhakamana Temple, situated at an elevation of 1,800 meters above sea level, is surrounded by dense forests. Tourists visit not only for religious purposes but also to enjoy the scenic beauty and picnic in the area. During the months of Falgun and Chait, the vibrant blooming of rhododendrons transforms the surroundings into a colorful spectacle. On clear days, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, including Manaslu, Ganesh, and Machapuchhre from the temple.

Local authorities, including the chairperson of Ichhakamana Rural Municipality, Dan Bahadur Gurung, have emphasized the development of the area as a religious tourism hub. Along with the temple’s reconstruction, several necessary infrastructures have been established to cater to the growing number of visitors. The temple’s revenue is now managed transparently under the municipality’s oversight, with staff for maintenance and cleanliness, including priests and caretakers, receiving salaries from the temple’s donations.

As per local legend, the Ichhakamana Temple is considered one of the seven sisters of the famous Manakamana Temple. It is believed that devotees who pray here for children will be blessed with offspring, a faith that has endured for centuries.

Chairperson Gurung also noted that every year, after the large Ekadashi festival in the month of Mangsir, a major fair is held at the temple, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The local municipality has even declared public holidays for the fair. With the opening of new motor roads, more pilgrims, including those from India, have started visiting Ichhakamana, as they now travel using the Fisling Shaktikhore and Muglin Tamin roads to reach the temple. This surge in tourism is set to enhance the region’s religious and cultural tourism prospects.

Press + K to search