More pilgrims visit Kali Gandaki

By Tilachan Pandey,Tamghas, Nov. 30: The number of pilgrims coming to take a holy dip in the Kali Gandaki River, located at the confluence of Gulmi, Palpa, and Syangja districts in Ridi, is steadily increasing. 

According to religious beliefs, bathing in the Kali Gandaki River is said to cleanse one of sins committed unknowingly, a tradition that continues to attract more and more visitors to the region.

Khagi Pandey, a pilgrim from Nawalparasi, shared that bathing in the Kali Gandaki and visiting the Rishikesh Temple brings fulfilment of one's wishes, a belief he was eager to experience.

“I had heard much about the place, but after coming here, I found the reality to be far more enriching than what I had imagined,” he said. “Bathing in the river, visiting the temple, and seeing the iconic three-headed bridge made my visit truly joyful.”

Pilgrims who visit this area often continue their journey along the Kali Gandaki corridor to visit Setibeni, home to Asia’s largest stone-carved Shilashaligram.

This area is especially vibrant during religious festivals such as the New Year, Asare Tulakadasi, Haribodhni Ekadashi, and Makar Sankranti, which see large-scale gatherings. 

Locals, including priest Churamani Timilsena, confirm that pilgrims from across the country come to take a holy dip in the Kali Gandaki River on various occasions.

Recently, to enhance the religious atmosphere of the region, an open conch-blowing ceremony and a devotional song competition were held in Ridi. 

These events are part of an ongoing effort to further promote the region’s spiritual significance.

As the number of visitors continues to rise, the Kali Gandaki River remains a prominent and revered site for pilgrims seeking both spiritual purification and personal fulfilment.