Hetauda, the capital of Bagmati Province, is home to numerous heritage sites. Situated amidst religious monuments and historical landmarks, Hetauda has become a cultural center in its own right. Its various temples, historical parks, and natural beauty have been attracting both local and foreign tourists.
Hetauda itself is recognized as a historical heritage. It is said that there’s a rich history behind its name, which is believed to have evolved from ‘Hedamba’. The area also houses some major religious sites. All these heritage sites have made Hetauda an attractive tourist destination that can be explored in a single day.
For tourists visiting Hetauda, exploring these seven heritage sites can be an extraordinary experience. The opportunity to visit religious sites, tour historical places, and enjoy natural beauty all in one day is something no tourist would want to miss.
These seven heritage sites include Triveni Dham, Vrindavan, Bhutandevi Temple, Pushpalal Park, Shahid Smarak, Gumba Danda (Sculpture Garden), and Jurethum. Each location has its own unique identity and significance that attracts tourists. Observing these heritage sites helps in understanding the depth of Hetauda’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Let’s learn about these seven major heritage sites in Hetauda that can be visited in a single day:
1. Triveni Dham:
Located at the border of wards 10, 11, and 13 of Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City, Triveni Dham is the confluence of three rivers: Ratnavati, Karnavati, and Kaushabahini. Once known as a cremation site, it has now become a sacred pilgrimage. Triveni Dham features 108 cow-faced fountains, Kushmanda Sarovar, various temples of gods and goddesses, and a beautiful garden. A month-long Makar Mela is held here every year in the month of Magh. Along with its religious importance, this place is full of natural beauty.
2. Vrindavan:
Located about 7 kilometers from Buddha Chowk in Hetauda, Vrindavan is a famous botanical garden. Established in 1962, this garden spans 96 hectares. It conserves about 500 species of plants. Vrindavan houses various types of flowers, herbs, and other important plants. It has become a heavenly place for nature lovers. People come here to enjoy cool air in summer and warm sunshine in winter. It is also developing as a study and tourist destination.
3. Bhutandevi Temple:
Located in Ward No. 10 of Hetauda, Bhutandevi Temple is a famous religious site. Carrying a history dating back to the Mahabharata era, this temple sees daily crowds of Hindu devotees and domestic tourists. Especially on Saturdays and auspicious festivals, devotees from home and abroad come for darshan. Bhutandevi Temple is also known as Hidimba Temple. Here, Bhutandevi is worshipped as another form of Goddess Durga and as Bhima’s wife. The temple premises also house statues of Mahishasura, Lakshmi-Narayan, and Radha-Krishna.
4. Pushpalal Park:
Located in Hetauda-5, Pushpalal Park was established in memory of late Pushpalal Shrestha, the founder of the Communist Party of Nepal. The park is now a beautiful garden and recreation spot. More than 40 types of roses and 350 types of flowers have been planted in the park. There’s also a pond where one can go boating. The park also features a statue of Lord Shiva Shankar, a meeting hall, and a meditation center. According to the park management committee, more than 500 people visit the park daily.
5. Shahid Smarak:
Located in Nawalpur of Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City, Shahid Smarak Park is an important historical site. This park is situated 7 kilometers west of Hetauda bazaar. The main attraction of this park is the artistic facial sculptures of 12 martyrs carved on a single stone. Shahid Smarak Park also features an attractive garden, an observation tower, a mini zoo, a children’s park, and adventure activities. According to the management committee, more than 5 lakh tourists visit here annually. Especially from Ashoj to the end of Magh, there’s a crowd of picnickers.
6. Gumba Danda (Sculpture Garden):
Located about 17 kilometers southeast of Hetauda, Gumba Danda (630 meters) is a unique tourist spot. Here, there are sculptures carved in stone by artists from different countries. This place is also suitable for cycling trips. At Gumba Danda, one can see artworks from various countries. However, there’s a need to develop tourist infrastructure here. If rest areas, interpretation and introduction of artworks, information centers, etc. are arranged, this place could become even more attractive.
7. Jurethum:
Located in Hatiya, Hetauda-17, Jurethum hill is developing as a new tourist destination. It houses a 42-foot tall statue of Lord Krishna, considered to be the tallest in Nepal. Various infrastructures have been constructed in this area spread over 90 hectares. Jurethum hill is about 14 kilometers from Hetauda bazaar. From here, one can observe the scenic views of Hetauda bazaar, Harnamadi, Hatiya, Makwanpurgadhi, and neighboring districts.
These seven heritage sites have established Hetauda as a diverse tourist destination. As all these places can be visited in a single day, this city has become an attractive destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Local government, provincial government, and federal government have been paying attention to the conservation and development of these heritage sites. However, some places need additional infrastructure development and promotion. Proper management and promotion of these heritage sites will help strengthen Hetauda’s tourism sector, which will also support the local economy.