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- 1 Manakamana Temple Timing Entry Travel Guide Nepal
Manakamana Temple Timing Entry Travel Guide Nepal
Manakamana Temple Timing Entry is the key information every traveler and pilgrim researching this iconic Nepalese shrine wants to know before planning a visit. Manakamana Temple, located in the Gorkha District, Nepal, sits high above the Trishuli and Marsyangdi river valleys and draws devotees from across South Asia to pay homage to Goddess Bhagwati. While there is no entrance fee for the temple itself, the primary travel component — the cable car connecting the base station to the hilltop — has defined timings, entry fees, and an online booking option that every visitor should be familiar with. For official information, visit Incredible India.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Manakamana Temple, Sahid Lakhan RM, Gandaki Province, Nepal |
| Temple Timings | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM (approx.) |
| Cable Car Timing Entry | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (break 12:00–1:30 PM) |
| Entry/Temple Fee | Temple: Free; Cable Car: Paid (see below) |
| Cable Car Entry Fee (Two Way) | Nepali: NPR 770; Indian: INR approx. 670; SAARC: US$10; Foreigner: US$20 (approx) |
| Approx Travel Time From Kathmandu | 3–4 hrs by road + cable car ride |
| Contact | Manakamana Darshan Pvt Ltd, Kurintar Station, +977-056-410044 |
How To Reach Manakamana Temple
By Air
The nearest major airport to Manakamana Temple is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. From here, the process continues by road and cable car since there is no direct air access to Manakamana. Domestic flights do not typically serve Gorkha due to terrain, so flying in Kathmandu remains the common choice for travelers from abroad.
By Train
Nepal does not currently have an operational intercity railway network serving Manakamana. While rail development is slowly progressing across some regions, reaching Manakamana via train is not available at this time. Travelers can instead rely on road transport. Understanding Manakamana Temple Timing Entry is essential.
By Road
From Kathmandu, you can reach the base station of the Manakamana Cable Car in Kurintar through a scenic drive of 100–110 km west via the Prithvi Highway. The drive takes around 3–4 hours depending on traffic conditions. Once in Kurintar, visitors go to the cable car station to take the aerial ropeway up the hill directly to the temple area. This mix of road travel plus the cable car ride is the most common and practical route from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Detailed Booking & Ticket Information
While entry to the Manakamana Temple itself is free, the popular way to ascend the hill is by taking the cable car operated by Manakamana Darshan Pvt. Ltd. Below you’ll find step-by-step guidance on how to book your tickets — both online and offline — along with pricing and important requirements.
Step By Step Cable Car Ticket Booking Online
- Visit the official cable car ticket booking portal: Manakamana Cable Car Booking which supports payment via Prabhu Pay and other online options.
- Select your preferred date and ticket type (e.g., one-way or two-way). Two-way tickets are recommended to ensure you return before closing time.
- Choose the category: Nepali, Indian, SAARC, Foreigner, student, elderly, expectant passengers, etc.
- Enter traveler details (name, age, nationality) and upload ID if required (especially for discounts).
- Proceed to payment. Confirm via Nepali card, international debit/credit cards, or compatible local digital payment gateways listed on the booking page.
- After confirmation, you will receive a digital ticket — save this on your phone and/or print it for presentation at the station.
Where To Buy Cable Car Tickets Offline
If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, you can buy them directly at the base station in Kurintar. The station has counters with options for immediate boarding depending on availability. However, during peak tourist seasons and festival weekends, in-person queues can be long. This relates to Manakamana Temple Timing Entry.
Cable Car Fee & Fee Rules
The following are approximate two-way ticket fees for the cable car:
- Nepali Citizen: NPR 770 (adult), NPR 460 (child)
- Indian Citizen: ~INR 670 (adult)
- SAARC/China Citizen: ~US$10
- Foreigner: ~US$20
Discounts typically require valid ID — student cards for student pricing and proof of age for elderly tickets. Notes about baggage allowance and extra charges may apply as per the operator’s terms.
Manakamana Temple Timing Entry (Temple & Cable Car)
Based on local schedules and operator information, here are the key timing elements: Learn more about Manakamana Temple Timing Entry.
Temple Timing
The Manakamana Temple itself generally welcomes devotees from early morning to late evening, roughly from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. These hours can adjust slightly during festival seasons like Dashain or Navratri when special early or extended hours are common.
Cable Car Timing Entry
The aerial cable car system normally operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a typical lunch break around 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM — meaning visitors must plan their trip to arrive and depart within this window.
Insider Tips From My Visit
When I visited Manakamana Temple a few years ago, the contrast between the peaceful hilltop shrine and the buzzing base station below was striking. Here are insights I personally recommend to help you plan better:
- Go early: Arrive at the cable car station by 8:00 AM to beat long lines, especially on weekend holidays.
- Check weather: Clear days offer dramatic views of the Annapurna range. Foggy conditions reduce visibility significantly.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There are stone steps near the temple, and you’ll walk after the cable car ride.
- Carry local currency: Not all counters accept international notes, and smaller denominations help for minor purchases near the summit.
- Allow enough time: The return cable car must be taken before closing time — if missed, you may need to stay overnight at a local guesthouse.
Nearby Attractions And Distances
While Manakamana Temple itself is the main attraction, there are other noteworthy places to visit in the region:
- Gorkha Durbar (Gorkha Palace): Approx. 40 km from Manakamana — historic palace with panoramic views.
- Chitwan National Park: Roughly 90 km south — famous for wildlife safaris.
- Pokhara: Around 95 km west — gateway to the Annapurna region and lakeside sightseeing.
Best Time To Visit
The climate and festivals play a big role in deciding the best time to visit:
- October to December: Clear mountain views and pleasant weather make this period ideal.
- March to May: Spring blooms and stable weather support trekking and sightseeing.
- Avoid monsoon (June–August): Heavy rainfall can disrupt road travel and obscure views.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there an entry fee for the temple?
No, entry to the Manakamana Temple itself is free of charge; only the cable car ride to reach it incurs a fee.
Can I hike instead of taking the cable car?
Yes, for those interested in trekking, there is a trail that takes 2–3 hours to hike from lower elevation points to the temple, offering an alternative to the cable car.
How far is the temple from Kathmandu?
It is approximately 106 km from Kathmandu by road to the cable car station, followed by a 10–15 minute cable car ride up.
How long does the cable car ride last?
The scenic aerial ride usually takes about 8–10 minutes each way.
Are there restaurants and accommodation at the top?
Yes, limited eateries and guesthouses exist near the hilltop, but options are more extensive in the base area of Kurintar.