Behada Baba

Behada Baba Temple, located in Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City-16 (Rampur/Urma) of Kailali district, is a major religious center in the Sudurpashchim Terai region. This temple is known as a heritage of faith for the Tharu community.

History and Mythological Legend

There is an interesting folklore about the origin of Behada Baba Temple:

• Story of the Shaligram: In mythological times, a Mahatma attained a sacred Shaligram by pleasing Lord Shiva and Parvati. He was carrying the Shaligram on the condition of not placing it on the ground. While passing through this place, he had to go for an urgent nature call, so he gave the Shaligram to a cowherd boy to hold, instructing him not to put it down. However, the boy, unable to bear its weight, placed the Shaligram on the ground.
• Discovery of Shivalinga: When the Mahatma tried to lift the Shaligram, it was fixed in the ground and no one could lift it. Later, it is said that local cowherds found a grand Shivalinga upon excavation after seeing a cow offering milk at a specific spot.

Features of the Shaligram Shivalinga

The Shivalinga here is considered 'Swayambhu' (self-manifested). According to local devotees, the size of this Shivalinga grows or changes from time to time. Marks of injuries, similar to being struck by an iron hammer, are clearly visible on the upper part of the Shivalinga, which are said to have been caused by people trying to uproot it in the past.

Tharu Community and Religious Beliefs

There is a deep connection between Behada Baba and the Tharu community:

• Guardian Deity: The Tharu community worships Behada Baba as their protector and the god who fulfills their wishes. There is a tradition of offering milk and making vows here, especially so that their cattle give more milk and remain healthy.
• Fairs and Festivals: The largest fair of the year is held here on the occasion of Ganga Dashahara. Special worship also takes place during Mahashivaratri. It is a popular belief that bathing in the Mahadeva Lake located in the temple complex and worshiping washes away sins and fulfills wishes.

The current physical structure of the temple was built in 2039 BS (1982 AD) through the initiative of local social workers.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dhangadhi Airport, about 15-20 km away. Regular flights connect Dhangadhi to Kathmandu (approx. 1 hour). From the airport, it is a 20-30 minute drive by taxi or hired jeep.
• By Road: The temple is located about 10–20 km east of Dhangadhi city. If traveling along the East-West Highway, one can get off at Chaumala Bazaar, from where the temple is about 6 km to the south.
• Local Access: The final leg of the journey involves a scenic drive through the Urmarampur forest, followed by a short 10–15 minute walk to the main temple complex.

Best Time to Visit

• Seasons: Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) offer the most comfortable weather for travel in the Terai plains.
• Festivals: Maha Shivaratri (February/March) is the biggest festival here, featuring massive fairs. Ganga Dashahara (May/June) and the entire holy month of Shrawan (July/August) also attract large numbers of devotees.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Timings: The temple is generally open for devotees from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. During Shivaratri, it remains open throughout the night.
• Facilities: Basic amenities and small shops for puja offerings are available near the entrance. It is recommended to stay in Dhangadhi city for better accommodation options.
• Local Tips: Visitors are expected to dress modestly. Taking a ritual bath in the Mahadeva Lake or the nearby Shivaganga river is a common practice before worship. The temple is especially significant for the Tharu community and agricultural families.