Tourism Info Nepal

Pashupatinath and the Majestic Pathibhara Temple: Where Faith Meets Scenic Majesty

Pashupatinath and the Majestic Pathibhara Temple: Where Faith Meets Scenic Majesty

Standing tall near the towering Himalayas, who wouldn’t feel their heart soften at the sight of such divine proximity? The Pathibhara Bhagwati Temple, located in the eastern part of Nepal, offers not only spiritual solace but also an incredible opportunity to stand beside the mighty peaks of the Himalayas. According to religious beliefs, the goddess of Pathibhara fulfills the wishes of her devotees. There is a strong belief that whatever is asked for here is granted. Situated at the summit of Pathibhara Mountain in Taplejung district, this revered pilgrimage site attracts both religious pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike, offering both spiritual enlightenment and breathtaking natural views.

The temple, a significant heritage of faith and belief, draws not only Hindus but also Buddhists and Kiratis, with a common desire to visit the sacred site. It is said that a visit to Pathibhara guarantees the fulfillment of one’s wishes, making it an important pilgrimage for Hindus as well as for followers of other faiths. The temple welcomes all, irrespective of caste, religion, or creed, and remains open year-round to pilgrims from all walks of life.

The origin of the name ‘Pathibhara’ is linked to the meaning of the words “Pahadi” (hill) and “Bhara” (full of grain). This area, with its magnificent peak resembling a heap of grains, is dedicated to the goddess Pathibhara. The legend of its establishment dates back to ancient times when local herders kept their cattle near the mountain. One day, unexpectedly, the herders’ flock of sheep went missing. Distressed, one of the herders dreamed of Goddess Kali, who instructed them not to worry but to sacrifice a sheep in her honor. Upon waking, the herder found all the sheep and promptly made a sacrifice. Since then, the worship and sacrificial offerings to Pathibhara have become an integral part of the temple’s traditions.

Pathibhara is also believed to be the manifestation of a fivefold deity, embodying different forms such as Mahakali, Bhadrakali, Siddhakali, Swetkali, and Raktakali, which is why devotees often refer to the goddess as Panchakanya Bhagwati. Although animal sacrifices are not mandatory, they are considered highly auspicious. Devotees offer fruits, sweets, and various sacred items such as sindoor, tika, and kajal as tokens of their devotion to the goddess.

This sacred site, located at an altitude of 3,794 meters (12,451 feet), is an important destination for both domestic and international pilgrims. People from various parts of Nepal and neighboring India gather here daily to pay their respects, often trekking for hours to reach the temple. The trek up from the lower to the upper ridges takes anywhere between three to six hours, depending on the pilgrim’s pace. Some pilgrims choose to stay overnight near the upper ridge and continue their journey early in the morning to complete the pilgrimage.

How to Reach Pathibhara Temple

Located 19.4 kilometers northeast of the district headquarters, Phungling, the temple is perched at a height of 3,794 meters above sea level. The weather in this region can be extremely cold, with temperatures frequently dipping below freezing. Visitors are advised to carry warm clothing, hot drinks, and local remedies like ginger, garlic, roasted corn, and hot food to protect themselves from the chill.

The ideal time to visit Pathibhara is between August and October and from February to May, as the weather is mild and pleasant, making it the most favorable period for both domestic and international tourists. Travelers can reach Phungling, the nearest town, via a 270 km-long road trip from Biratnagar, passing through Ilam, Fiddim, and Suketar, followed by a walk to the temple. Alternatively, there are road routes from Dharan to Dhankuta, and visitors can also fly from Kathmandu to Suketar.

Stunning Views and Sacred Reverence

From the temple, visitors are treated to a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), as well as Makalu (8,485 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), and numerous other towering peaks. The view of the majestic Himalayan range is truly mesmerizing and offers a heavenly experience for all who visit.

Despite the natural beauty and spiritual significance, one of the primary challenges at Pathibhara Temple is the scarcity of water. The temple complex lacks a water source, and water is brought from a distant location, which can be a challenge for both pilgrims and temple staff. The temple is located at an elevation where water shortages are a serious concern, making it one of the few inconveniences for visitors.

Pathibhara is not only a sacred place for worship but also a site of rich biodiversity. The surrounding area is home to a variety of flora, fauna, and rare species such as the red panda. This combination of natural beauty and spiritual importance continues to elevate the region’s status as a must-visit destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.

Pathibhara Temple offers more than just a religious experience; it is a sanctuary that unites faith, culture, and nature. Whether seeking divine blessings or simply yearning for an escape into the beauty of the Himalayas, the temple provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Nepal.

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