Charikot, February 8:

The number of pilgrims visiting the famous Bhimeshwor temple in Dolakha district is on the rise. The temple, situated in Bhimeshwor VDC-3 in the district, lies at a distance of 137 km from Kathmandu.

People of Newar community regard Bhimeshwor as their Kuldevata. They perform special worship at the temple on every Tuesdays and Saturdays. Animals are sacrificed at the temple every day except on the days of Bhim Ekadashi, Chaite Dashain and Kartik Poornima and on two days during the Dashain festival, according to the locals.

The rise in the number of pilgrims has proved to be a boon for local

businessmen.

“I sold pooja items worth over Rs 5,000 yesterday alone,” Kanak Lal Shrestha, a local vendor, said. He also said the number is increasing because people also come to enjoy natural beauty in the places adjoining the temple On Saturdays, vehicles can be seen lining up from Pakhalti to the Bhimeshwor temple, locals said. The lodges and hotels in Charikot and other adjoining areas can be found full of pilgrims on Fridays.

“It is believed that the nation would face crisis if the shrine of Bhimeshwor sweats,” Hari Prasad Manandhar, a pilgrim from Banepa, said.

Another pilgrim Sharada Tamang from New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, said she would visit the temple again with her friends.

“I am attracted by the beauty of Dolakha and Bhimeshwor temple,” she added.

According to a legend, the shrine of Bhimeshwor originated on its own. Pilgrims regard Bhimeshwor as the wish-fulfilling god.