Manakamana Temple Cable Car Guide

Overview

Manakamana Temple perches on a ridge at 1,302 metres in Gorkha district, about 100 kilometres west of Kathmandu. The goddess Manakamana (whose name means heart's desire) is believed to fulfill the wishes of sincere devotees, which has made this one of Nepal's most visited shrines. The Austrian-built cable car from Kurintar station makes what was once a three-hour climb into a spectacular 10-minute aerial journey over the Trishuli River gorge.

Goats and chickens are traditionally sacrificed at the temple as offerings, so be prepared to witness animal sacrifice if you visit on auspicious days (Tuesdays and Saturdays are busiest). The inner shrine is dedicated to the goddess in her Durga form. Around the temple complex, smaller shrines to Ganesh, Bhairav, and other deities cluster along the ridge.

The cable car operates from 9 am to 5 pm. A round-trip ticket costs approximately NPR 1,070 per person. The base station at Kurintar is on the Prithvi Highway and is easily reached by bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu (about 3 hours) or Pokhara (about 2 hours).

FAQ

Do I need to book cable car tickets in advance?
Booking in advance is not possible — tickets are sold at the base station only. Arrive early on weekends and festival days to avoid long queues that can stretch to two hours.

Is Manakamana suitable for children and elderly visitors?
Yes. The cable car makes the temple accessible to all. The temple complex itself is compact and does not require significant walking.