KATHMANDU, Nov 6: Even as more than two months have elapsed since its official inauguration, Pashupati Dharmashala is yet to come into operation owing to the dilemma of Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) over its operation modality. 

Prime Minister KP Oli and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi had jointly inaugurated the 398-bed dharmashala (inn) in the last week of August. The Dharmashala has 82 rooms including four rooms for VIPs.  A VIP room consists bedrooms, kitchen, dining hall and halls.   “We lack human resources to operate the dharmashala. Further, we are yet to finalize its operation modality,” said Pradeep Dhakal, member-secretary of the PADT. 

The dharmashala was constructed aimed at accommodating pilgrims visiting the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indian government had provided Rs 200 million for the construction of the dharamshala. 

Hindu pilgrims from various countries visit the Pashupatinath temple every year. Most pilgrims come from India.  The PADT had entrusted the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management to conduct a study on how to operate the dharmashala. PADT officials are in confusion about the amount to be charged from pilgrims or let them stay there free of cost. 

Dhakal said they will settle the issue once the report is made public. PADT officials are also holding separate meetings on how to operate the dharmashala in a sustainable way. 

They want to involve security officials, civil servants and stakeholders concerned in managing the dharmashala.

 
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