HETAUDA: The Bagmati Province government has announced plans to launch the Shiva Circuit Project, aimed at reviving and preserving ancient religious and cultural heritage.
Minister for Physical Infrastructure Development, Aman Kumar Maskey, presented the vision for the Shiva Circuit Project, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding Nepal’s historical, cultural, and religious identity while promoting religious tourism.
According to Minister Maskey, the project is inspired by the 64 Shiva Lingas and pilgrimage sites described in the ‘Himawatkhand’, a section of the Skanda Purana referenced in ancient Vedic, Hindu, and Buddhist literature.
These sacred sites are scattered across several districts within Bagmati Province, including Sindhuli, Dolakha, Rasuwa, Dhading, Makawanpur, Nuwakot, Kavre, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, and Kathmandu.
Three of the 64 Shiva Lingas are located in Makawanpur. The proposed religious trail begins at the Kusheshwor area in Sindhuli and ends at the revered Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.
The route encompasses not just Shiva Lingas but also sacred forests (Tapobhoomi), holy rivers, and pilgrimage destinations. Handwritten manuscripts from the 15th century that document the tradition of worship and pilgrimage to these sites further underscore their historical significance.
Minister Maskey stated that the Shiva Circuit Project will go beyond religious relevance to also support the socio-economic development of the province.
“By reviving the tradition of religious trekking, this project will be both eco-friendly and inclusive,” he said. “It will be developed with multiple modes of transportation in mind—allowing access by foot, bicycle, motorcycle, cable car, and more, to suit pilgrims and tourists of all ages and backgrounds.”
The ministry plans to implement the project in collaboration with local communities, making maximum use of local resources, skills, and technology. This approach is expected to generate employment, promote local products, support market development, and facilitate the transfer of traditional skills.
The provincial government is preparing to begin implementation of the project next year.
“Today’s society is gradually drifting away from its religious and cultural roots. This project will help reconnect people with their original beliefs and heritage,” Minister Maskey said. He also expressed confidence that, once developed, the Shiva Circuit could attract Indian religious tourists in significant numbers.
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