Thousands of devotees have begun their climb up Suladri Parbat to reach the holy Gosaikunda Lake, marking the start of the Gosaikund Mela that coincides with the Ganga Dussehra festival.
Ganga Dussehra celebrates the descent of the Ganges River to Earth. As part of this holy period, a ten-day festival commences today at Gosaikunda, a high-altitude lake believed to have been created by Lord Shiva’s trident.
Since Wednesday, over a thousand devotees have undertaken the challenging trek to bathe in the sacred Gosaikund, located at an impressive 4380 meters above sea level. The belief is that bathing and worshipping here fulfill wishes and grant blessings.
Authorities are prepared for the surge in pilgrims. Chief District Officer Bednidhi Khanal assures necessary security arrangements are in place. Accommodation is readily available through the festival, lasting until June 16th. Hoteliers’ Association District President Nisan Gajurel confirms there’s enough space for all devotees.
Langtang National Park, where Gosaikunda resides, reminds visitors to be responsible tourists. Senior Chief Conservation Officer Annath Baral urges pilgrims to respect the environment by not harming wildlife, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding cutting vegetation.
The Gosaikund Mela offers a captivating blend of religious devotion and a challenging adventure. This year, join the thousands embarking on a journey of faith and spiritual cleansing at the foot of the Himalayas.