Chumik Changchup aka Risheshwor is a renowned pilgrimage destination for Hindu and Buddhist devotees around the globe. Hindu relates it to Lord Mahadev and his noble living with meditation, whereas Buddhists make a pilgrimage trip there to take a bath and meditate, following the path of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava)- a precious Buddhist master.
Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated at Chumik Changchup during his journey to Tibet. He displayed himself as Kyechok Tsulzan, which is a powerful dominance over the evil spirits and a good protection of Dharma. With his immense energy and dominance, he took those spirits on the path of Dharma, and established spiritual surroundings, where the Buddhist pilgrimage seekers visit and pay homage these days.
Chumik Changchup literally means spring of awakening, which can be seen at the entrance of this sacred property. Once you enter, you will see various images of Avalokiteshvara, Buddha Shakyamuni, and Guru Rinpoché in the surroundings. Devotees sit on the stones and meditate. It's another level of experience at the sacred land of Guru Rinpoche.
Where is Chumik Changhup/Risheshor Mahadev?
Chumik Changhup is located in Daman of Makwanpur district, on the way to Hetaunda. It is located about 85 km southwest of Kathmandu, similar to Hetauda Bazaar. It takes about 3.15 hours to drive from Kathmandu to reach Daman, where this sacred seat of Guru Rinpoche lies.
Best Time to Visit
You can determine the best time as per your suitable schedule. However, there are some special moments, and if you can catch any of them, it will be amazing.
Spring Season
The best time to visit there is spring- March-April-May. The entire hilly surroundings will be full of rhododendrons blooming of various species. The weather will be also wonderful, which allows great views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Langtang, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu.
Autumn Season
Another great time is Autumn, September-October, and November are great months in terms of clear weather, and the best Himalayan views along with pilgrimage. Autumn is also the festival time and the pilgrimage place is often found crowded with devotees.
Special Occasions
- Janai Purnima is another day, which is very special to visit there.
- Fagu Purnima (Holi) is also an excellent day to be there.
- Buddha Jayanti/Lhosar: They are delightful times to visit and pay homage.
Transportation for Chumik Changhup/Risheshor Mahadev
There are usual buses available from Kathmandu to Hetaunda, which will be your transportation if you want to go by the local bus. However, it might take 5 hours to get there.
The best way is by the private vehicle: car/jeep/hiace/bus according to your group size. You can contact a local travel agency to arrange the transportation with a professional driver. We recommend you spend at least one day near the site and enjoy the trip fully. However, if you are time-bound, it can be done in a single day too, but beginning early will be a great idea.
Food and Accommodation
There are abundant places to stay overnight and places to eat. It depends on your budget about the accommodation type, but there are numerous hotels and lodges.
Once you are in Daman, try Nepali typical Thali (Dal Bhat) that will give you a water-filled mouth- yummy, yummy. It is also because the food items are grown at high altitudes.
More Guru Rinpoche Sites in Nepal
- Yempi Mahavihara (E Vihara) in Patan
