Chhimkeshwari is located in the Mahabharat range, in the northern section of the hilly district of Tanahun. The temple that houses Chhimkeshwari Mai is situated on a 2,134m above sea level mountaintop. The highlight of Tanahun, a community rich in religious, cultural, and natural heritage, maybe Chhimkeshwari.
Legend Behind Chhimkeshwari Mai
According to mythology, Goddess Chhimkeshwari Mai is the elder sister of Manakamana Mai in Gorkha and Akala mai in Tanahun. Even though it is not as well-known as the other two, Chhimkeshwari mai has many followers who come to her doorstep to seek her blessings. An old statue in a horizontal position can be found in one of the temple's corners.
Image Cr: The Kathmandu Post
Caption: Chhimkeshwari Temple
Legend believes that the statue represents Chhimkeshwari's might as the older goddess. Chhimkeshwari was enraged to learn that two of her younger sisters had accepted pig and duck sacrifices as offerings. Chhimkeshwari mai retaliated by lying prostrate on the floor, refusing to look at her sisters.
As a result, the statue symbolizes her strength, and it now serves as a reminder of the goddess she is. Only goat and pigeon sacrifices are accepted as offerings by the Chhimkeshwari goddess.
Significance Of Chhimkeshwari
The location is not only for Hindu worshippers, although being recognized for the temple of Chhimkeshwari mai. Nature and culture abound in this area. The Trishuli, Marsyangdi, and Seti rivers surround Chhimkeshwari hill on three sides.
Almost all of the mountains to the north and the undulating hills to the south are visible from the top of the hill. The mountain also serves as a vantage point for admiring the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
Image Cr: The Kathmandu Post
Caption: A traditional mud house in Hilekharka
Small towns like Abukhaireni, Dumre, Bimalnagar, Bandipur, and Satra Saya and villages like Hilekharka, Aklang, Bhange, Labdi Dharampani, and Ramkot are located at the foothills of Chhimkeshwari. They are noted for their distinct culture and way of life. Gurung, Newar, Chhetri, Magar, Damai, and Chepang tribes dominate these communities.
Indigenous dance traditions such as Kaura, Ghatu, Lakhe, Jhyaure, Tayamacha, and Sorathi are occasionally performed by the people. Locals have recently sought to promote these ancient civilizations to develop the region economically and as a tourism destination.
Image Cr: The Kathmandu Post
Caption: Pat leading to Chhimkeshwari Hill
In the villages of Hilekharka and Chhimkeshwari, community homestays have been established. Locals consider installing homestays in places like Aklang, Bhange, and Abu. The majority of the people residing in these areas are farmers who raise millet, buckwheat, wheat, and maize, which are staples in their diet and highlight the meals offered to their visitors.
If you enjoy nature, Chhimkeshwari is a great place to visit. It was one of the ten Tanahun locations chosen for Visit Nepal 2020 by the provincial administration. Wildlife such as deer, bears, leopards, and butterflies make their homes in the woodlands.
The rhododendron and sungabha cover the forests in varied colours of crimson during the summer. But all is not well in this world. Infrastructure and utilities such as communication, electricity, and drinking water are low supply.
Chhimkeshwari Mai Temple Now
The temple is now undergoing renovations. According to Panchabahadur Gurung, chief of Abukhaireni Rural Municipality, Ward No 5, it is modelled after the famed Manakamana temple. "We understand that the temple's isolated location prevents many devotees from visiting, but there are plans to build a cable car facility," he said. "If that happens, it might significantly boost its tourism opportunities."
Despite its enormous potential, Chhimkeshwari is currently hidden in the shadows. Local efforts alone may not be enough to wake Chhimkeshwari from its slumber, according to Harisingh Gurung, chair of Sampada Nepal, a local tourism organization. "It's past time for local units to step up and implement policies that directly benefit locals and prevent youth migration for overseas work," Gurung added. "If that happens, Chhimkeshwari might become one of the region's most important tourism destinations."
FAQ Related To Chhimkeshwari Mai
How Can You Reach Chhimkeshwari Mai?
Chhimkeshwari may be reached in two ways: from Abukhaireni and Dumre, both tiny settlements on the Prithvi Highway. The hike from Bandipur to Chhimkeshwari takes roughly four hours. The ideal route to begin the walk is from Abu Khaireni, where one must take a public bus to Labdi, 19 kilometres from Abu, and then trek for an hour.
What To Eat During The Visit To Chhimkeshwari Mai?
You can have millet and wheat bread, dhindo, gundruk, local raksi, and chicken delights.
Where Can You Stay While Visiting Chhimkeshwari Mai?
During Your Visit To Chhimeshwari Mai, you can stay at the Hilekharka Homestay or at the Chhimkeshwari Mai.
What Are The Other Places That You Can Visit During Your Trip To Chhimkeshwari?
Bandipur is not far away. Gorakhkali, Manakamanamai, Budhikanyamai, Shiva Mandir in Abu Khaireni, Akalathan, Boudhha Gumba in Bandipur, and Chandi Deurali are just a few of the popular religious shrines in the vicinity.
