Spiritual · Swargadwari
Before the sacred fire of 1895
Attend morning or evening worship at the yagya kunda of Swargadwari, where priests feed a fire said to have burned since 1895, and hear the story of Swami Hamsananda and his cows from the people who keep the ashram running.
We go to the yagya kunda at the time of morning or evening worship. Priests chant Sanskrit verses and pour ghee onto the flames, and pilgrims add grain and offerings. The smoke, the smell of ghee and the sound of bells fill the courtyard.
Your guide explains what a yagya is: an ancient Vedic fire ritual, here kept going continuously as an act of devotion since the full moon of Baisakh in 1895. Non-Hindus may watch respectfully and are sometimes invited to make an offering.
Afterwards we walk through the ashram to the cattle sheds and the temples, and, where possible, sit with one of the priests or volunteers to hear about Swami Hamsananda and life on the ridge.
Good for
Questions
Has the Swargadwari fire really burned since 1895?
The ashram and its devotees say the fire lit on the full moon of Baisakh in 1895 has been tended continuously and never gone out, and this is widely reported in Nepali media. It cannot be independently verified, but the unbroken tending of the fire is central to the site's identity and to its pilgrims' faith.
Can non-Hindus visit Swargadwari?
Yes, respectful visitors are generally welcome to the ashram, temples and cattle sheds. Some inner shrines may be restricted. Dress modestly, remove shoes where asked, avoid leather near the fire, and follow your guide's lead on offerings and photography.
What should I offer at Swargadwari?
Common offerings are ghee for the fire, grain, flowers, incense and fodder for the cows, along with a cash donation to the ashram. Small amounts are fine. You can buy ghee and puja items at stalls near the ashram. Offerings are always voluntary.
Also in Swargadwari
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