With the recent Linga Bhairavi Devi temple consecration in Kathmandu, I have been keen to visit the neighbouring country of Nepal soon! Relevant sources have told me that the Rudraksha seed trade in the world is largely dominated by Nepal and Indonesia (surprising isn’t it? I would have guessed India if I didn’t know better). Rudraksha trees interest me greatly given that I had recorded a video series on growing a Rudraksha tree at home, check the youtube playlist here. I have also listed out all the places in India where we can see naturally growing Rudraksha trees, read here! Consequently, I have now started researching places in Nepal where we (visitors) can see naturally growing Rudraksha trees. Maybe we could also see some Rudraksha farms (or orchards?) in Nepal?
Here is the list of places I have found so far will add more as I come across. And if you have seen a Rudraksha tree, tell me where in the comments!
Locations to See Rudraksha Trees in Nepal
Temples of Kathmandu
Budhanilkantha Temple is situated in a suburb (also called Budanilkantha) of Kathmandu. Records suggest a green and peaceful locale. Interestingly, most of us will assume that the “Buda Nilkantha” is a Shiva temple, but it is actually a reclining Vishnu idol. The surroundings have a lot of Rudraksha trees, some online sources suggest. So, I will add this temple to my list of places to visit when I head to Nepal. :)
Pashupatinath Temple
There is a rudraksha tree in the temple premises. A lot of online sources attest to this. And there are some references to a Rudra Abhishekam that can be done to this tree.
Dharan City near Sikkim
Pindeshwor Baba Dham, Dharan – Map Location Here
At the other end of Nepal is the city of Dharan, closer to the border with the Indian state of Sikkim. Pindeshwar Shiva temple is surrounded by Rudraksha trees says this instagram post,
This place is so close to Sikkim, that I suspect there will definitely be some Rudraksha trees in Sikkim. Though I can’t find any online records of the same.
Rudraksha Farms of Nepal
Visiting a Rudraksha Farm would be an interesting experience and give us a glimpse into the Rudraksha trade. I found a few websites that mention how they are cultivating and harvesting Rudraksha (like this one) But I am searching for a way to visit one of these.
Will update more soon.
Let me know if you have any contacts that can facilitate a visit to Rudraksha farm.
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