Bhairabnath Temple

Located in Khalanga, the headquarters of Jajarkot district, Bhairabnath Temple is an important religious and historical center of this district. This temple is deeply connected with the history and power of the Shah dynasty kings of Jajarkot.

Historical Background

The Jajarkot state was established in 1455 BS by Jagati Singh Medini Barma. After King Badshah moved the capital to Khalanga in the 18th century, various temples and palaces were built here. This temple is believed to have been established in the 18th century as a part of the Jajarkot Palace area.

Relation between Shah Kings and Bhairabnath

There was a historical friendly (miteri) relationship between the Shah kings of Jajarkot and the Shah kings of Gorkha:

• Friendship and Religious Treaty: A 'Dharmasandhi' (religious treaty) was signed between King Hari Shah of Jajarkot and King Prithvi Narayan Shah of Gorkha in 1811 BS at the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi.
• Symbol of Power (Sword): Prithvi Narayan Shah gave a 'Khadga' (sword) to Hari Shah as a symbol of power. A tradition began in Jajarkot to worship this sword as 'Khadga Devata' or the power of Bhairab. Bhairabnath is considered the protector deity of the Jajarkot state and the royal family.

Worship Tradition and Customs

• Khadga Yatra: Every year on the day of Phulpati during Dashain, the Khadga Devata is brought to the palace in Khalanga from the old capital Jagatpur with special music. There is a large participation of the Nepal Army, Police, and local residents in this procession.
• Sacrificial Worship: Special sacrifices are offered to Bhairabnath and Khadga Devata on the days of Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami. According to tradition, the Shah Thakuris of Jajarkot have the special right and tradition to perform the sacrifice in the courtyard of the palace.
• Kalratri Puja: A special 'Kalratri' puja of Bhairab is performed using tantric methods on the night of Ashtami of Dashain.

The temple and surrounding historical structures were damaged by the devastating earthquake of 2080 BS, and initiatives are currently being taken for their conservation and renovation.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• By Air: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (approx. 1 hour). From Nepalgunj, take a bus or hired jeep to Khalanga, Jajarkot (approx. 6–8 hours).
• By Road: Jajarkot is well-connected to Surkhet via the Chhinchhu-Jajarkot Road, which takes about 4–5 hours. Direct buses are available from Kathmandu, but the journey is long (approx. 18–22 hours).
• Local Access: The temple is located within the Khalanga Bazaar area and is easily accessible by a short walk from the main market.

Best Time to Visit

• Seasons: Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) offer the best weather and mountain views.
• Festivals: Dashain is the most significant time, especially during Phulpati and Maha Ashtami, when the historic Khadga Yatra and special rituals take place. Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered particularly auspicious days for worshipping Bhairab.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Timings: The temple typically opens early around 5:00 AM until 12:00 PM, and reopens from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM for evening Aarti.
• Nearby Attractions: Visitors should also explore the nearby Jajarkot Durbar, a historic palace with traditional architecture.
• Local Tips: Khalanga has basic guesthouses and local eateries. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash as ATM services in the area can sometimes be unreliable.