Chhayanath Mandir

Chhayanath Temple (Chhayanath Dham), located in Mugu district, is a supremely sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. This Dham, located at an altitude of about 4,500 to 4,820 meters above sea level, is considered the second largest Dham after Mansarovar Kailash.

Religious Significance and Mythological Story

According to the Swasthani Vratakatha, while Lord Shiva was carrying Sati Devi's dead body, all the remaining final body parts (shadow) fell in this place as the body decomposed, hence its name became 'Chhayanath'. Therefore, it is also taken as the final Shakti Peetha. Hindus worship it as Shiva and Buddhists worship it as 'Ablang' or Avalokiteshvara.

History and Journey (Chhayanath Yatra)

The main temple in Chain village of Mugu is believed to have been established in 1819 BS. In 1836 BS, Sundar Chaulagain Upadhyay established the idols of Thakurjyu (Shiva), Vishnu, Ganesh, and Buddha here.

• Chhayanath Yatra: A special fair is held here every year from Shukla Ashtami of the month of Shrawan to Janai Purnima. The idol (Gaath) of Thakurjyu is taken from Chain village to Chhayanath Dham with priests, music, and security personnel.
• Devotees: Thousands of pilgrims from more than 15 districts of Karnali and Sudurpashchim as well as from Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh in India participate in this journey.

Tourist Attraction

Located in the lap of the mountains near Rara Lake, this area is also extremely beautiful naturally. Above the temple, there are natural caves marked with idols of Shiva, Parvati, and Vishnu. It is a popular belief that ancestors get salvation and wishes are fulfilled by having a darshan of Chhayanath.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• To Gamgadhi: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then take a domestic flight to Talcha Airport in Mugu. From Talcha, a short drive or walk leads to Gamgadhi, the district headquarters.
• Chaingaun Temple: The lower temple is a 15-minute walk from Gamgadhi and is easily accessible.
• High Dham Trek: Reaching the main Chhayanath Dham (4,500m+) requires a challenging 4-5 day trek from Gamgadhi or Pulu village through rugged mountain terrain.
• Trekking Route: The trail passes through high-altitude meadows and traditional villages like Kimri and Dolphu.

Best Time to Visit

The peak religious period is in July/August (Janai Purnima) during the Chhayanath Yatra. For trekkers, Autumn (September to November) offers the best weather and clearest mountain views. Spring (March to May) is also suitable, though snow may remain on high passes.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Difficulty: The trek to the main Dham is High and requires excellent physical fitness and experience with high altitudes.
• Facilities: Infrastructure is very limited. Expect basic tea houses or tented camps.
• Health: Be mindful of Altitude Sickness (AMS); allow time for acclimatization in Gamgadhi or Rara Lake.
• Respect: The site is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists; maintain local customs and silence in the temple areas.