Feature News: Chandragiri Hills drawing domestic and foreign tourists

The Chandragiri Hills, which carries a historic and religious importance, has been the main attraction to both domestic and foreign tourists lately. Situated southwest of Kathmandu, the federal capital of the country, seven kilometres away from Thankot, Kathmandu, the tourist destination serves as a perfect fit for touristic, religious and recreational activities, also making an ideal spot for those who want to take a rest and enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The 2,551 metres-high natural heaven is surrounded by the wilderness with the eye-catching views of the Himalaya mountain ranges in the background. A majestic view of Mount Everest, and the Kathmandu Valley, neighbouring Dhading, Nuwakot and Makawanpur districts is something that will entice people and tourists alike. Apart from being a major choice for the people who want to organise any meeting, seminar, assembly and any musical programmes, it also serves as a stop for those visiting the Kathmandu Valley for recreational activities like a cable car ride, and for those who are keen in religion and history for a research and a study. Besides, the area is also home to one of the most important Hindu temples, the Bhaleshwor Mahadev, which is believed to possess wish-granting powers. It has its historical significance as well. Going by a history, Prithvi Narayan Shah, King from the Shah dynasty, a unifier of the modern Nepal took a first glimpse of the present Kathmandu Valley (then known as Nepal Khalto), which in fact instilled in his mind an idea to annex the Valley into his kingdom. He is also believed to have got spiritual powers for the unification process after undergoing a ‘sadhana’ (meditation) here. He is told of having disguised himself while ascending the hills so as to avoid being recognised by the Malla Kings of the Kathmandu Valley. So, in his honour, his statue has been erected in the hills. The statue has been a main attraction to anyone visiting here. Visiting people pose with it for a photograph. Bhaleshwor Temple, the statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah, ziplines, a Children Park, a horse ride, the Chandragiri Hills resort, and shopping marts are among other attractions to the hills. It is believed that the Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple was built here after the incarnation of god Mahadev manifested. The temple has received increasing number of pilgrims from home and neighbouring India. A cable car network is a new addition to the beauty of the hills. Constructed by the Chandragiri Hills Limited, the cable car came into operation commercially on 16 December, 2016. Following this, inflow of tourists, domestic and foreign, has been high, said the Chandragiri Hills finance chief Binayak Pokharel. One of the options for tourists to reach the hills is a trekking route. The trekking route leading to the hills is in existence since long, and tourists visiting the hills still take this route, he said. The cable car is operational seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm. Over 71,100 tourists took a cable car ride in a single one month (mid-December, 2022 to mid-January, 2023), he said. It charges Rs 799 for a Nepali citizen for a round trip, and Rs 600 for a Nepali student. Similarly, USD 22 is charged for a foreign citizen.