Swargadwari, a well-liked pilgrimage destination and hilltop temple complex in Nepal’s Pyuthan District, is renowned for its cultural and historical significance. The temple complex is reachable by road and trekking trails, and it is located 2,700 meters above sea level.

Guru Maharaj Narayan Khatri (Swami Hamsananda), a Hindu saint who lived most of his life herding and milking thousands of cows, is thought to have founded Swargadwari. Tradition has it that some of his followers tried to track him down to discover where he took the cows, but they were never able to do so. According to legend, the saint possessed divine abilities and could speak to the gods through his cows. As a result, the temple complex honors the significance of cows in Hinduism.

Many shrines honoring various Hindu deities, such as Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Kali, may be found within the temple complex. The primary shrine, known as Swargadwari Temple, honors Lord Vishnu. Intricate murals and carvings that represent themes from Hindu mythology adorn the shrine.

The constant lighting of sacred fire since Swargadwari’s founding is one of its distinctive characteristics. The fire, which has been blazing for generations, is supposed to have been started by Guru Maharaj Narayan Khatri. It is thought that the ash (bivut) from the firewoods burned by the holy fire has therapeutic qualities and is used to treat a variety of bodily ailments, including headaches, stomachaches, and more.

Every year, hundreds of pilgrims travel to Swargadwari, particularly around the Janai Purnima, Dashain, and Tihar festivals. A yearly fair held at the temple complex also draws visitors from all around Nepal and its neighbors. The fair, which includes music, dance, and many stalls offering regional foods and crafts, is a celebration of culture, faith, and local customs.

For the sake of international peace and cultural legacy, Swargadwari must be preserved. The temple complex is evidence of Nepal’s rich cultural legacy and displays a singular fusion of history, religion, and architecture. Swargadwari encourages religious unity and understanding among individuals from many backgrounds as a well-known pilgrimage destination. For the benefit of future generations, this historical site must be preserved and protected.

How to reach Swargadwari from Kathmandu?

From Kathmandu, one can get to Swargadwari by taking the following routes:

Via Air: The Nepalgunj Airport is the closest airport to Swargadwari. An hour-long direct flight is available from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, one can go to Swargadwari in around 5–6 hours via local bus or by hiring a cab.
Via Road: From Kathmandu, one can also reach Swargadwari by road. A bus or vehicle will take you between 10 and 12 hours to travel the 320 kilometers between Kathmandu and Swargadwari. The route includes a magnificent drive along the Prithvi Highway, followed by trips via the Pyuthan-Bumahi Highway, Dang-Tulsipur Highway, and so forth.

On the trip, it is advised to rent a private vehicle or a cab because the roads might be difficult to manage, particularly during the rainy season. During the dry season, the roads are often in better shape (October to May).

Nonetheless, the trip from Kathmandu to Swargadwari can be adventurous and spectacular, with views of the Nepali countryside and the Himalayas.

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