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Dakshinkali Temple, located 22 km south of Kathmandu, is one of the most important Hindu temples in Nepal. The name ‘ Dakshinkali’ is derived from two words, ‘ Dakshin’, meaning ‘south’ and ‘Kali’, the name of the fierce Goddess worshipped in this temple. Also considered the most bloodthirsty incarnation of Parvati, hundreds of devotees, especially on Tuesday and Saturday, flock to Dakshinkali to make animal sacrifices to impress and seek the blessings of goddess Kali. To learn more about this sacred place, let’s dive into its history, religious significance and many more.
History of Dakshinkali Temple
The history of Dakshinkali Temple dates back to the 17th century during the regime of Pratap Malla, reflecting the deeply rooted worship of Goddess Kali. According to the legend, the Goddess herself came to the king’s dream and ordered him to build the temple. Since then, the temple is considered as a sacred place for for worshipping Kali who is often portrayed with a scary look holding a demon head and a sword symbolizing the power of good over evil.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Many think Dakshinkali temple is just a religious site, but it is more than that. It’s a destination where Nepal’s spiritual and cultural significance is palpable as soon as you step foot in the temple’s serene location. The place’s high energy combined with the devotion of worshippers along with lush forests surroundings and the flowing Bagmati River attracts not only the Hindu pilgrims but also the spiritual seekers from varied backgrounds.
Moreover, this temple is a centre of cultural activities, especially during major Nepali festivals such as Dashain. It marks the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the goddess Durga, another form of Kali. The temple is crowded with worshippers and animals such as goats, chickens are sacrificed. While this practice can be intense for some, this very old tradition is believed to be a way to seek blessing from the deity.
How to get Dakshinkali Temple
The route to reach Dakshinkali Temple takes around an hour. For hassle- free trip, Taxi/ Car is highly recommended. However, if you want budget-friendly option, local buses from RNAC is also easily accessible.
Remember:
- Like any other temples, leave your shoes outside.
- Visitors are not allowed to take photograph of sacred rituals inside the temple.
- Show your respect by wearing full sleeved, trousers/ pants.
Best Time to Visit Dakshinkali Temple
The Spring (March- April) and Autumn ( September- November) is the ideal time to visit Dakshinkali Mandir due to pleasant weather. However, to get intense and closure understanding of our culture, visiting during Dashain festival is highly recommended.
Nearby Attractions
If you are interested in ancient monastries and caves, visit at the nearby village of Pharping. You can also explore a famous Buddhist site, ‘Asura Cave’, where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
Wrap Up Your Visit
If you have come to the end, you must be well known that Dakshinkali is not just a temple; it’s a sacred symbol of faith, devotion, culture, and spirituality. Therefore, we invite all our visitors to come to this divine place, believing that the Goddess provides protection, strength, and prosperity to her devotees.
