Shiva Dhara Shrine is a holy site located in the Makalu region of Sankhuwasabha district in Province 1, Nepal. The shrine is a popular destination among Hindu, Buddhist, and Kirat devotees who visit to pay their respects to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesh.
The shrine is located at an altitude of 4,310 meters, and trekkers usually start their journey from Yangle Kharka, which is the base camp situated at an altitude of 3,600 meters. The trek to Shiva Dhara is challenging, and it takes around a week to reach the shrine from Num. The trek involves a steep climb, and trekkers need to be physically fit to undertake the journey.
The shrine is divided into three parts: Shiva cave, Parvati cave, and Ganesh abode. Shiva cave is the primary attraction of the shrine, where a constant waterfall emerges from the middle of the cave. The cave is situated just below the snow-capped Himalayan range, and the view from here is breathtaking. Parvati cave is a tiny cave located near Shiva cave, and the route to Parvati cave from Shiva cave goes through Ganesh’s abode.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is believed to have meditated in this cave, and the constant waterfall is considered a symbol of his blessings. The shrine holds great religious significance among the local people, who believe that visiting the shrine during the auspicious month of Shrawan can bring them good fortune and prosperity.
The trek to Shiva Dhara is not recommended for novice trekkers, and visitors need to be prepared for the harsh climate and challenging terrain. Despite the risks involved, the journey to Shiva Dhara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides visitors with a chance to connect with nature and spirituality.