Bal Gopal Shish Mahal opens in Devdaha to boost religious tourism

A new Bal Gopal Shish Mahal has been built in Devdaha, Rupandehi, to promote religious tourism.

The project cost Rs 7.5 million, with Rs 500,000 funded by Devdaha Municipality and Rs 7 million raised by the local community. The Durga Temple Conservation Committee of Devdaha-7, established in 1914, led the construction, aiming to preserve religious heritage and attract visitors.

Committee chairman CP Basyal said the Shish Mahal is named after Lord Krishna’s childhood name, Bal Gopal, and is part of the larger Devdaha Manideep Dham project. “This will help boost religious tourism in the area,” he said. He also called for a master plan to develop religious infrastructure, encourage local participation, and promote Devdaha as a cultural hub.

Basyal noted Devdaha’s importance as the birthplace of Buddha’s mother Mayadevi, aunt Prajapati Gautami, and wife Yashodhara, and stressed the need for better facilities for both domestic and foreign tourists.

Inside the Shish Mahal, visitors can see detailed artworks of Krishna’s childhood, his playful moments with the Gopis, the defeat of Kalinga Naga, and his cosmic form. Three artists from Delhi, India, worked for two months to create the glass artworks, which cover about 2,000 square feet.

According to the committee, this is the first Shish Mahal built in Lumbini Province. The foundation was laid on August 26, 2024, and the structure was completed within a year. The inauguration is scheduled for Saturday on Krishna Janmashtami, to be done by Swami Vivekananda Saraswati Ji Maharaj.

Along with the Shish Mahal, the temple premises now feature the Arjun Ratha, Buddha Bihar, water fountains, a scenic park, rest areas, and a decorative entrance gate. The construction was funded through temple income, donations, and contributions from locals, the municipality, and other organisations.

Entry will be free on inauguration day. From August 17, tickets will cost Rs 50 for adults, Rs 30 for students, and Rs 30 per person for groups of 30 or more.