KATHMANDU: Shailung Danda (hill), located in Dolakha, is a renowned tourist destination.
Situated in Shailung Rural Municipality, this place is known as the intersection of nature and spirituality.
Upon arriving, visitors experience a unique energy that soothes both the body and mind, bringing a sense of tranquility to all who visit.
Shailung Danda, around 200 kilometers south-east from Kathmandu and situated about 3,400 meters above sea level, lies on the border between Ramechhap and Dolakha.
However, there is an ongoing border dispute regarding Shailung, a region known for both its religious and tourist significance.
Despite multiple discussions between stakeholders from both districts, the dispute remains unresolved.
In the Tamang language, the word “Shailung” translates to “a hundred peaks,” representing the area’s numerous high and low peaks.
From the top, visitors can see majestic mountains shimmering like silver waves, with stunning views of Gaurishankar, Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) to the east, and Annapurna, Manaslu, Lamjung, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Sagarmatha, and Numbur to the west.
Spiritually, Shailung is a sacred meeting place for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Hindus regard it as the site where Lord Shiva meditated, while Buddhists believe it is where the Buddha once set foot.
The area is home to several important religious sites, including Shailung Monastery, Shailung Mahadev Temple, Dharma Cave, and a figure resembling a cow’s hoof and udder.
Other notable religious and natural landmarks in Shailung include Dharma Door, a site where the Godawari (Chrysanthemum) blooms once every 12 years, Mahadev Temple, Hanuman Cave, Dafe Dhunga, Jareshwor Mahadev, Gai Dhunga, and Bagh Dhunga.
Shailung is a sacred pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Buddhists visit the Buddhist temple at Shailung Danda, while Hindus pilgrimage to Shailung Mahadevsthan.
The tradition of visiting the Buddhist temple and staying in the cave during Buddhist Purnima has been practiced for centuries.
Thousands of devotees gather annually for this occasion to worship the Lama Guru at Shailung Danda.
Additionally, the Godavari bathing fair, held every 12 years, and a visit to Shailung Mahadev are believed to bring merit.
Tourists flock to Shailung Danda during major festivals like Buddha Purnima, Bala Chaturdashi, Teej, and New Year’s celebrations.
Local businesses are also benefiting from the growing number of domestic tourists visiting Shailung, contributing to the region’s increasing popularity.
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