Grand Fair Held at Kumakh Hill of Salyan on Kojagrat Purnima

Grand Fair Held at Kumakh Hill of Salyan on Kojagrat Purnima

A grand fair has been held at the famous religious and natural site Kumakh Hill (Lake) in Salyan on the occasion of Kojagrat Purnima.

This traditional fair, organized after the Dashain festival, is regarded as one of the most historic and culturally significant events in the district. Devotees gathered at the Siddha Temple located at the summit of Kumakh Hill for special worship and offerings.

Religious and Cultural Significance

According to temple priest Sher Bahadur Dangi, special worship is performed every year at the Siddha Temple on the days of Chaturdashi and Kojagrat Purnima. Those visiting the temple for the first time are said to circle it seven times, make a wish, and later offer a sheep sacrifice once their wishes are fulfilled.

Within Kumakh lies the Siddha Cave, a sacred site considered highly significant from a religious perspective. The cave, about 150 meters long, contains unique rock formations and carvings. A grand fair and special worship are also held here annually during Maha Shivaratri.

Every year, around 150,000 devotees visit Kumakh for worship and to participate in the fair.

Natural Beauty and Wildlife

Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,537 meters above sea level, the top of Kumakh Hill offers a breathtaking view of the Rukum, Rolpa, Banke, and Jajarkot regions, along with the distant Himalayan ranges.

Local resident Dilliraj Jaisi describes Kumakh as a natural “view tower” where visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the mountains to the plains. The forests surrounding Kumakh are home to rare herbs, various bird species, red deer, ghoral, and leopards.

Ram Bahadur Basnet, Vice Chairperson of Siddha Kumakh Rural Municipality, emphasized that Kumakh is an important habitat for wildlife and needs strong conservation efforts.

Cultural Events and Local Traditions

About a kilometer below the Siddha Temple, at the flat area toward Jimalit, a grand fair is held on Kojagrat Purnima. Folk artists from nearby villages perform traditional dances and songs such as Bangadi, Tappa, Sorathi, Paisetri, Dohori, and Serange.

These performances are believed to strengthen social bonds and preserve local traditions. Many fading folk cultures are showcased and revived through this fair.

Writer Dr. Purna Bhandari (Pankaj) stated that the Kumakh fair plays a vital role in preserving local culture and traditions. According to him, “The Dashain and Kumakh fairs provide opportunities for people returning from abroad to reunite with friends and family.”

Veteran folk singer Kharka Budha added that numerous folk songs are dedicated to Kumakh Hill and the beliefs associated with it, making the site culturally significant.

Economic and Social Importance

Devotees from Rukum, Jajarkot, Rolpa, Dang, and other districts also visit Kumakh to worship and participate in the fair.

Traditionally organized fairs have become a means for locals to earn income by selling local products such as bananas, peanuts, sweet potatoes, and jalebi.

The fair also features wooden swings, traditional dances, and handicraft stalls, which enhance its cultural appeal.

Ramesh Chalune, Ward Chairperson of Siddha Kumakh–1, stated that with the construction of earthen roads and improved transportation, the number of visitors has increased dramatically. He said, “Compared to previous years, the number of visitors participating in worship and the fair has risen by tens of thousands.”

Infrastructure Development and Tourism Potential

Dambar Shahi, Chairperson of Kumakh Rural Municipality–7, expressed that Kumakh could be developed as a major internal and external tourist destination.

Road connections such as Dhorchaur–Gurudase–Syani Pipli and Tharmare–Chaurpani–Okharbot–Gurudase have already been completed.

According to the Division Forest Office, Salyan, a trekking trail has been constructed at a cost of around 1.8 million rupees, funded by the Karnali Province Government (1.5 million grant) and community contributions.

Information Officer Lalit Jung Khadka of the Division Forest Office stated that the trail, stairs, and temple gates were built with support from the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forest, and Environment of Karnali Province. The newly built trail has made travel for devotees and tourists much safer and more convenient, as previous routes were risky.

Local resident Navin Chalune mentioned that additional infrastructure such as railings, open fields, and temple reconstruction is still needed to facilitate pilgrims. He added, “With proper infrastructure development and promotion, Kumakh could attract not only domestic but also international tourists.”

Symbol of Faith, Culture, and Nature

Kumakh is a unique blend of religious faith, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.

Priest Sher Bahadur Dangi affirmed that devotees believe their wishes are fulfilled after offering prayers or sacrifices at the temple.

Local residents believe that with proper coordination among the local, provincial, and federal governments, and emphasis on infrastructure, preservation, and promotion, Kumakh could become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Karnali Province.