Initiative underway to list Halesi as World Heritage Site

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By Republica

KHOTANG, Jan 31: Efforts have begun to enlist the world-renowned tri-religious site, Halesi, in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Halesi, a sacred site for Hindus, Buddhists, and Kirat followers, is being pushed for recognition by Halesi Tuwachung Municipality.

According to Mayor Bimala Rai, the municipal winter assembly has passed a decision to work towards the listing of Halesi as a World Heritage Site. She stated, “Our municipality is home to a site where three major religions converge. It is necessary to have it listed as a World Heritage Site. For this, we will work with the Department of Archaeology to submit necessary documents to UNESCO.” She further emphasized that the recognition would pave the way for overall development, and discussions with various stakeholders have already begun.

Halesi is regarded as a tri-religious site based on several beliefs: it is said to be the refuge of Lord Shiva from the demon Bhasmasur, a sacred site discovered by the Kirat ancestors, and the place where Guru Padmasambhava attained enlightenment. With the presence of the Maratika Monastery, the site also attracts Buddhist followers from around the world, who stay for months for meditation.

Apart from domestic visitors, tourists from China, India, Bhutan, Singapore, Japan, Russia, France, Ukraine, the United States, and other countries come to visit Halesi. With improved transportation facilities, the number of daily visitors has significantly increased, according to the temple management committee.

Natural and religious significance

Halesi is not only significant for its religious beliefs but also for its natural beauty. The main shrine of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is located inside a large cave, surrounded by massive rock formations. Behind the main cave lies another equally significant cave known as Basaha Cave. Inside, a natural skylight offers a stunning view, making it a unique natural wonder.

Ahead of these two caves is the Bhairav Cave, another major attraction. Observers consider these rock formations a geological marvel. Located in the lap of themountains , Halesi is situated 40 kilometers west of Diktel, in Mahadevsthan, Ward No 7 of Halesi Tuwachung Municipality. It is believed that worshipping Shiva and Parvati at Halesi fulfills devotees' wishes. With direct road connectivity to the Terai, the number of pilgrims and tourists visiting Halesi has surged.

Before road accessibility, Lamidanda Airport was the only travel alternative to Halesi. However, with the construction of concrete bridges over the Dudhkoshi River at Jayaramghat and the Sunkoshi River at Harkapur, visitors can now easily travel by bus or jeep. Some pilgrims even opt for helicopter charters to reach Halesi.

Traveling to Halesi takes about seven hours by bus or jeep via the Mid-Hill Highway from Kathmandu. Additionally, visitors from the Terai can reach Halesi via the Siddhicharan Highway, while those arriving at Lamidanda or Khanidanda airports can continue their journey by road. Inside the Halesi caves, sacred gates such as Dharmadwar, Papadwar, and Swargadwar are believed to offer spiritual cleansing, merit, and liberation.

Legends of Halesi

Various legends surround the origins of the Halesi caves. Kirat followers regard it as their ancestral land, Buddhists refer to it as the "Second Lumbini," and Hindus consider it the "Pashupatinath of the East."

One legend states that around 1820 BS, Kirati King Baghbangshi, while hunting, chased a deer into a cave and lost his dog. Upon hearing the dog's bark from inside the cave, he climbed down using vines and discovered a radiant Shiva Lingam. This led to the recognition of the cave as a sacred Shiva shrine.

Hindu mythology narrates that Bhasmasur, a demon who obtained a boon from Lord Vishnu to burn anyone he touched, pursued Shiva and Parvati to Halesi. Seeking refuge, they entered the cave, where Lord Vishnu ultimately deceived and destroyed Bhasmasur. Since then, Shiva and Parvati have been believed to reside there.

Buddhist scriptures mention that Guru Padmasambhava attained enlightenment in the Maratika Cave, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhist followers worldwide. Thousands of devotees visit the caves annually, considering it a place of great spiritual importance.

Fairs and festivals

Several major fairs and festivals take place at Halesi throughout the year. The Ram Navami fair in Chaitra lasts for 15 days, the Bala Chaturdashi fair in Mangsir for 12 days, the Shivaratri fair in Falgun for seven days, and the Teej fair in Bhadra for three days. Devotees from across Nepal and neighboring countries like India, China, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Japan, and the US participate in these grand celebrations. During these fairs, trade worth billions of rupees takes place, with domestic and international traders setting up businesses.

Government involvement

The government has been working on the development of Halesi as a tri-religious site since 2053 BS through the Halesi Development Committee. Efforts are being made to improve facilities for pilgrims and tourists, including accommodations, food, and sightseeing arrangements.

Recognized as a key economic resource for Koshi Province, the government allocates an annual budget for Halesi’s development. However, locals have expressed concerns over the slow pace of implementation. Local authorities continue to support the site's holistic development.

Infrastructure development

With year-round tourist inflow, various physical infrastructures have been constructed with investments from the Guthi Institution, Development Committee, and Temple Management Committee. These include entrance gates, staircases, and fire ritual platforms. The municipality has also paved the temple courtyard with interlocking blocks. Additionally, shelters for selling traditional prayer scarves (dora mala) have been set up to organize sales more effectively.

To manage the long-standing practice of burning incense inside the temple, the municipality has designated an area outside the main entrance for lighting incense sticks. Pathways for circumambulation around the temple have also been upgraded. A dharmashala (pilgrims' rest house) is currently under construction in collaboration with Nepal Oil Corporation and the municipality.

Tourism and business growth

Halesi, a unique religious site where Hindu, Buddhist, and Kirat traditions merge, has witnessed rapid business and hospitality sector growth. With its location along the Mid-Hill Highway, the area has seen an expansion of modern hotels and restaurants. Currently, around 500 tourists can be accommodated in Halesi’s hotels, and the municipality is working to regulate and manage these establishments.

To address water shortages in the dry region, a drinking water project has been launched through the Locha Khola Water Supply Project and deep borewell installations. This ensures a reliable water supply for pilgrims and tourists.

Future plans for Halesi

A master plan for Halesi’s development has been initiated, focusing on conservation, promotion, and infrastructure development. Due to increasing encroachments, authorities have prioritized comprehensive development through strategic planning. A team of geologists has already conducted surveys for future projects.

With continued efforts and investments, Halesi is poised to become a globally recognized spiritual and tourist destination.