Gajurmukhi Temple, also popularly known as Devisthan is a well-known religious site located in the riverbed of Deumai river, west of Illam bazaar in the Eastern Region of Nepal. It lies at an altitude of 500m. Devisthan can be reached from Birtamode to Illam bazaar following the route of Ghangre Bhanjyang to Ghoseni by road via hired jeep or motorcycleand a small walk from Ghoseni. Recently, another route of 15-20 km has been constructed to reach here from the south of Manglabare.It is widely believed that individuals who worship in the Gajurmukhi Devisthan will be blessed with a child if they are childless, that people who are unable to speak will be given a voice, and that other miracles will occur.
History:
According to the myths, a long time ago, a voiceless local Yonhang Limbu was somehow lost from his home & was nowhere to be found. Upon searching by his family members and villagers, he was found within a stone cave gripping a triangular stone and shaking and vibrating his body in a mystical way. When the people discovered that the man was able to speak, the stone was instantly preserved and is worshipped till date with a strong belief that Devi resides insides this mystical stone.
Vicinity:
Gajurmukhi Temple is a beautifully crafted architecture in itself while the Deumai river adds to the peaceful feeling of being here. This site is also home toa cave of about 10 ft high and 20 ft long. Along with this, there is a Shivalaya Temple of Lord Shiva in this area, which draws many visitors from India as well. This area is rich is Limbu culture and has been preserving the culture and traditions of Limbu community. A huge fair is organized here during on the full moon day of Kartik or Kartik Purnima. A number of accommodation services (such as lodges, homestay) has been made available here to provide comfort for visitors and devotees.
Major Attractions:
The main attraction of this site is believed to be the historical cave where the lost man was found after regaining his voice with the mystical powers of the stone. Nowadays, this place has been gaining popularity as one of the most beautiful trekking routes in Eastern Nepal which takes about a walk of four hours. The eye soothing views and the green high hills seen throughout this route adds more to the experience of this trail. Recently, this place has been taken on the path of commercialization to establish it as an important tourist destination along with its own religious significance through small but standard tea shops, pleasant accommodation services and a showcase of secularism as well as hospitality.
-Article written by: Ujjwal Bhetwal for Land Nepal
