Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)
In Nepali: रुरुक्षेत्र (रिडी) · Also known as: Ridi · Rishikesh temple · रुरुक्षेत्र · रिडी
Ridi Bazaar straddles the border of Gulmi and Palpa where the Ridi Khola joins the Kali Gandaki. The Rishikesh temple, built by King Mukunda Sen of Palpa in the 16th century, houses an image of Vishnu that is said to age from child to old man over the course of the day.
The riverbanks are used for funeral rites, and the Makar Sankranti fair in January draws huge crowds. The old Newar bazaar is worth a stroll, and it is a stop on the rough road from Tansen to Tamghas.
What to see and do
Visit the Rishikesh temple and its Vishnu image, walk along the ghats at the confluence, explore Ridi's old bazaar with Newar houses, and cross the bridges between Gulmi and Palpa. The shaligram stones found in the Kali Gandaki are sold and worshipped here.
Good to know
The Makar Sankranti fair (January) is the busiest time. Simple hotels are available in Ridi.
Quick answers
- Where is Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- Ruru Kshetra (Ridi) is in Gulmi district, Lumbini Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- About 400 m (1,312 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- For a 3-day trip from Bhairahawa (Lumbini), about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 14,000 (≈ US$105) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Bhairahawa (Lumbini) and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- Maghe Sankranti (January); October–March
- How do I get to Ruru Kshetra (Ridi)?
- About 2 hours by road from Tansen. It is about 49 km (straight line) from Bhairahawa (Lumbini).
- What is Ruru Kshetra (Ridi) called in Nepali?
- रुरुक्षेत्र (रिडी)
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