The Dugdheshwarnath Mahadev Temple, located within the conservation area of Parsa National Park, witnessed a significant influx of devotees today. The temple, which draws both local and Indian visitors, saw an exceptional crowd compared to regular days.
Alakhdev Prasad Tharu, the president of the Dugdheshwarnath Mahadev Temple Preservation Committee, reported that devotees had started queuing in the early morning to seek blessings from Lord Mahadev. “Thousands of devotees from various states of India arrived at the temple grounds by Sunday evening. These long-distance devotees often arrive the previous day, engage in overnight worship, and offer prayers and water to Lord Mahadev at dawn,” he stated.
Situated on a hilltop in the Chure range, the temple complex includes shrines dedicated to Lord Mahadev and Goddess Parvati. The temple’s unique location, amidst the forest and slightly elevated above the river that runs through the dense Charkose Jhadi, adds to its allure.
Due to the high turnout of both Indian and Nepali devotees on Mondays, managing the crowd poses a significant challenge. President Tharu estimated that over 100,000 devotees would visit the temple today alone.
Mamta Mahato, the vice-president of Paterwa Sugauli Rural Municipality, emphasized the efforts to manage the influx of devotees. “This is a highly revered Mahadev shrine within Parsa National Park. Thousands of devotees from various Indian states come to worship here,” she noted.
Devotees use various modes of transportation, including four-wheelers, tractors, motorcycles, and even on foot. Most prefer motorcycles and tractors for their journey. Throughout the month of Saun, the temple hosts a continuous fair.
The temple is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Birgunj. Due to the wildlife risk within the national park, the road to the temple is closed after 7 PM and reopens at 6 AM. Access is restricted during other seasons for safety reasons.
Jatashankar Sah, who visited Pokhariya Municipality in Parsa, expressed his faith in the temple’s power to fulfill wishes. “This historic and ancient Mahadev temple in Parsa is well-known. I came to pray for the well-being, peace, and prosperity of my family,” he shared.
Prabin Patel from Birgunj Metropolitan City, who visits the temple annually with his family, also highlighted the spiritual fulfillment he experiences. “Visiting this temple brings a sense of inner satisfaction. This year, I brought my wife and son on my motorcycle,” he said.
The Bhathadham hosts an annual fair on the day of Baisakh Triodashi, attracting numerous devotees each year.
