Dashain, the biggest festival of Nepal, is a time of devotion, family gatherings, and cultural celebration. During Navaratri, the first nine days of Dashain, devotees pay homage to Goddess Navadurga, visiting temples across Kathmandu that are considered Shakti Peeths—sacred sites dedicated to Goddess Sati, Durga, or Shakti.
Kathmandu, often called the city of temples, is home to numerous Shakti Peeths where locals and tourists alike gather to offer prayers and partake in festivities. Here are nine major temples to visit during Dashain Navaratri:
1. Guhyeshwari Temple
Located on the eastern bank of the Bagmati River, about 1 km northeast of Pashupatinath, Guhyeshwari Temple is dedicated to Adi Shakti. Believed to mark the spot where a part of Sati Devi’s body fell after her immolation, this temple is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Its origins trace back to King Pratap Malla in the 17th century, making it one of Nepal’s historic Shakti Peeths.
2. Dakshinkali Temple
About 17 km south of Kathmandu, Dakshinkali Temple sits amid lush forests at the confluence of two streams. Devotees flock here, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, to worship Goddess Kali and seek blessings. During Dashain, the temple is famous for its animal sacrifices—ducks, chickens, and goats—offered as part of the ritual.
3. Naradevi Temple
Situated between Chhetrapati and Kathmandu Durbar Square, Naradevi Temple (known locally as Nyata Maru Ajima) is dedicated to Goddess Swetakaali. Daily visitors come to worship, while Dashain sees larger crowds. The Khadga Jatra, a sword procession, is celebrated here on the tenth day of Dashain.
4. Maitidevi Temple
Nestled between Dilli Bazaar and Gyaneshwar, Maitidevi Temple has long been maintained by the Vajracharyas. Though originally established during King Amshuvarma’s era, the current structure dates to 1711. Devotees visit especially on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, believing the goddess fulfills wishes. A special fair is held on the ninth day of Dashain, accompanied by traditional animal sacrifices.
5. Bagalamukhi Temple
Located in Patan, Bagalamukhi Temple honors Goddess Bagalamukhi, a fierce form of Durga. Legends say the goddess protected locals from a demon named Bagala. Devotees frequent this temple on Thursdays and during Dashain for blessings and protection from negative forces.
6. Shobha Bhagawati Temple
On the banks of Bishnumati River, Shobha Bhagawati Temple is another key Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Durga. Worship here is believed to bring fortune, and the temple sees heavy footfall during Dashain and Chaite Dashain.
7. Taleju Bhawani Temple
Adjoining Kathmandu Durbar Square, Taleju Bhawani Temple was built by King Mahendra Malla in 1564. Dedicated to a four-headed, ten-armed goddess originally from southern India, the temple was later adopted as the clan goddess of the Malla kings and Shah dynasty. Notably, it opens only once a year on the ninth day of Dashain, making it a highly anticipated visit.
8. Bhadrakali Temple
Located near Tundikhel and Sahid Gate, Bhadrakali Temple houses the fierce Goddess Shree Lumadhi Bhadrakali. Devotees come to worship daily and during Navaratri, often bringing new vehicles for blessings. This temple is a prominent Shakti Peeth with rich cultural significance.
9. Bajrabarahi Temple
In Chapagaun, Lalitpur, Bajrabarahi Temple is one of four Barahi temples in the Kathmandu Valley. Dedicated to the boar-headed goddess, it is a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple’s origins trace back to King Shree Niwas Malla of Patan in the late 16th century, making it a historic and spiritual highlight of Dashain.
Explore these nine temples during Dashain Navaratri to experience Kathmandu’s spiritual vibrancy and the city’s centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re seeking blessings, cultural insight, or just a glimpse of the festival spirit, these Shakti Peeths offer a remarkable journey through faith and heritage.
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