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Dakshinkali Temple Exploration: A Sacred Place Near Kathmandu

Dakshinkali Temple: A Sacred Hindu Destination in Nepal

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.

Pilgrims at Dashinkali Temple to offer prayers to Goddess Kali.
Pilgrims at Dakshinkali Temple to offer prayers to Goddess Kali.

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.

Incense, also known as Dhup in Nepali are lit to offer gratitude towards God.
Incense, also known as Dhup in Nepali are lit to offer gratitude towards God.
The ancient charm and spiritual essence of Dashinkali temple
The ancient charm of Dakshinkali temple.

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.

A prayer stone inscription offered to Kali Mata.
A prayer stone inscription offered to goddess.

How to get Dakshinkali Temple

The route to Dakshinkali Temple takes around an hour. For a hassle-free trip, a Taxi or car is highly recommended. However, if you want a budget-friendly option, local buses from the RNAC bus stop are also easily accessible.

Remember:

  • Like any other temple, leave your shoes outside.
  • Visitors are not allowed to take photographs of sacred rituals inside the temple.
  • Show your respect by wearing full-sleeved, trousers/ pants.
Green scenic route that you'll be blessed with on the way to Dashinkali.
Green scenic route that you’ll be blessed with on the way to Dashinkali.

Best Time to Visit Dakshinkali Temple

Due to pleasant weather, the Spring (March- April) and Autumn ( September- November) are the ideal times to visit Dakshinkali Mandir. However, to get a close understanding of our culture, visiting during the Dashain festival is highly recommended.

Worshippers waiting in queue, covering themselves with umbrellas during the rainy season.
Worshippers wait in a queue, covering themselves with umbrellas during the rainy season.
More queue.
Captured this adorable view of mother and son outside the temple.

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.

Asura Cave, where the 8th-century Buddhist master Rinpoche found peace.
Asura Cave, where the 8th-century Buddhist master Rinpoche found peace.

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. 

Captured handful offerings including coconut, flowers, incense.
May Goddess Kali protect us and our loved ones-  Om Krim Kali
About the author

In the heart of Nepal's diverse landscapes, where each path unveils a story and every summit beckons adventurers, a refreshing voice emerges, epitomizing the captivating allure and vibrant culture of this region. This voice is none other than Monika Thapa, a newly minted travel writer at Nepal Hiking Pvt. Ltd, captivating readers with her insightful chronicles on tours and activities in Nepal. Radiating youthfulness and zest, Monika introduces a rejuvenated perspective in the Nepali travel blogging domain. With an undeniable passion for exploration and a knack for articulating her encounters vividly, she has become a guiding light for those aspiring to unearth the hidden wonders of this Himalayan paradise. Her writings, rich with keen observations, transport readers to the vivid destinations she explores, making them come alive with her poetic narration. Monika embarked on her writing voyage at a young age, finding peace and muse amidst the mountains and valleys that encompass her hometown. This immersion in nature's grandeur nurtured her yearning to showcase Nepal's lesser-known treasures to the global audience. Today, she guides her readers through the vibrant lanes of Kathmandu and the serene trails in the Annapurna region, showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary elements that define Nepal. But Monika transcends mere descriptive narratives. She strives to forge a deep connection with her audience, urging them to transcend their boundaries and witness travel's transformative essence. Advocating for sustainable tourism, she encourages visitors to embrace conscious traveling, preserving Nepal's fragile ecosystems. Monika Thapa represents a vibrant generation of Nepali writers, poised not just as narrators but as guardians of Nepal's opulent cultural and natural legacy. Watch out for this promising scribe as she unfolds Nepal's pristine and unexplored narratives, one exhilarating tale at a time.

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