Shantidham, located in Tarkeshwar Municipality-2, Kavresthali, has emerged as a prominent destination for both domestic and international tourists. Established in 2011 with the vision of building the Chardham Temples in Nepal, Shantidham began attracting visitors following the construction of the Badrinarayan Temple, which was completed in 2018.
The foundation stone of the Badrinarayan Temple was laid on Nirjala Ekadashi in 2016, and it was inaugurated on Ram Navami in 2018. Designed in the Dravidian Shikhara architectural style, the temple is a stunning example of art and craftsmanship, built for NPR 150 million.
Currently, Shantidham welcomes over 1,000 visitors daily, with the number surging to 3,000–5,000 on holidays, according to Shriram Thapa, Chairman of the Shantidham Management Committee. The temple is open in the mornings and evenings, remaining closed from 12 PM to 3 PM.
Shantidham aims to replicate the iconic Chardham temples of India within Nepal. While the Badrinarayan Temple is already operational, plans are underway to construct Rameshwaram Dham, Dwarkadhish Dham, and Jagannath Dham. The initiative, spearheaded by the founder monk Swami Chaturbhujacharya Chudamani Maharaj, seeks to provide Nepalese pilgrims with access to revered religious sites within their homeland.
Shantidham’s premises span 100 ropani (approximately 5 hectares) and include ambitious plans to establish facilities such as an Ayurvedic hospital, old age home, orphanage, gaushala (cow sanctuary), ashram, dharmashala (pilgrim lodging), guest houses, and funeral rites building.
Shantidham hosts major religious fairs during Akshaya Tritiya, Krishna Janmashtami, and Ekadashi, drawing thousands of devotees. The management committee has also announced an Annakut Mahotsav scheduled for November 28, 2024, adding to the site’s spiritual appeal.
The Tarkeshwar Municipality has been actively supporting the development of Shantidham. Deputy Mayor Sirjana Burlakoti confirmed that the municipality allocates an annual budget for the temple’s development and has prioritized making Shantidham a key tourist destination. This year, funds have been designated for constructing the Rameshwaram Dham.
Despite its growing popularity, the development of Shantidham’s infrastructure faces financial challenges. The management committee has appealed for increased donor contributions, noting a rise in philanthropic support.
Situated just seven kilometers north of Kathmandu’s New Bus Park, Shantidham combines religious, cultural, and natural elements, making it an ideal destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike. With its ongoing expansion and growing visitor numbers, Shantidham is poised to become a landmark of religious and cultural tourism in Nepal.
