POKHARA: The Kanthadevi Temple, located at Bhotepokhari in Pokhara Metropolitan City–33 of Kaski district, is gradually emerging as a centre of religious tourism.
Situated at Bhotepokhari Takuro, the temple offers a scenic view of the Himalayan range and holds both religious and historical significance.
Researcher Ashok Thapa said the exact date of the temple’s establishment remains uncertain. However, based on available legends and historical references, it is estimated to have been built around 169 years ago.
According to Thapa, the history of the temple is also linked to Rana-era Prime Minister Jung Bahadur Rana. On 14 Shrawan 1613 BS, the then king Surendra Bikram Shah conferred upon Jung Bahadur the title of “Shree 3 Maharaj” of Kaski and Lamjung through a historic royal proclamation.
Quoting a story passed down from his father, Thapa said Jung Bahadur used to travel through the region while journeying toward the Syangja–Nuwakot area.
During these trips, he would pass through Raja’s Chautaro, Lamgadi and Bhanjyang before reaching Bhotepokhari, where he would tie his horse near a large stone by the temple and rest while feeding it grass. After visiting Kanthadevi, he would continue his journey through Bhartipokhara and Kristi.
Various explanations exist regarding the origin of the temple’s name. Thapa said historian Jagman Gurung provided several interpretations during his research.
According to one explanation based on the Shiv Purana, Lord Nilakantha Mahadev protected the universe by drinking poison during the churning of the ocean, which turned his throat blue. The name “Kanthadevi” may symbolize this sacred “kantha” or throat.
Another interpretation suggests that “kantha” also refers to voice, associated with the goddess of speech, Saraswati. Since a historical school existed near Bhotepokhari, the temple may represent the combined symbolism of goddesses Durga and Saraswati—representing power and knowledge.
Local residents have been actively working to preserve and promote the temple, which they consider an important historical and cultural landmark.
According to Deepvikram Chand, chairman of the Kanthadevi Temple Conservation Committee, conservation and development efforts have been given priority in recent years. Forest areas around the temple have also been protected through community initiatives.
Stones and shrines dedicated to deities such as Kali Nag, Seti Nag, Bhairav and Krishna within the temple premises further enhance its religious importance. Locals regularly worship Goddess Kanthadevi during important festivals and auspicious days.
Residents believe that visiting the temple brings spiritual healing and blessings, which has helped sustain its reputation over generations. Due to its scenic surroundings, infrastructure development has also been carried out to promote the site as a religious tourism destination.
With support from the Gandaki Provincial Government, stairways have been constructed along parts of the trail leading from Hanuman Pond to the temple. A basketball court has also been built nearby with the aim of promoting sports tourism in the area.
According to local resident Mukunda Ghimire, the Kanthadevi Temple has strong potential to attract both domestic and international tourists if properly developed as a religious tourism destination. He said a one-day hiking route could be developed starting from the powerhouse area of Pokhara-30, passing through Khaireni and Hanuman Pond before reaching the temple.
“Tourists can begin their hike from the powerhouse area and observe the Tiklang Gold Cave along the way before reaching Kanthadevi Temple,” he said. “The route offers panoramic views of the northern mountains, making it an ideal destination for a one-day hike.” From the temple, hikers can also continue toward Hudikot, he added.
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