Chhinnamasta Bhagwati

Chhinnamasta Bhagwati Temple (Sakhada Bhagwati) is located in a place called Sakhada, about 10 kilometers south of Rajbiraj in Saptari district. This is a major center of faith for Hindu devotees from Nepal and India (especially Bihar).

History and Naming

The establishment of this temple is believed to have been done in the 13th century by Karnat dynasty King Shakrasimha Dev of Simraungadh. He established the idol here as his ancestral deity and named it 'Shakhreshwari' after his name, which later became corrupted into 'Sakhada'. It is believed that the army of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi, cut off the head of the idol during an attack around 1324 AD. Because the head is missing (severed), the Goddess began to be called 'Chhinnamasta'.

Feature and Panchabhagini

In the inner sanctum of the temple, there is a black colored carved idol of Bhagwati. Along with it, there are also idols of Dakshinkali, Mahishasuramardini, Chamunda, and Bhairavi, which are collectively called 'Panchabhagini' (Five Sisters). Worship is performed here using tantric methods. There is a tradition of performing special worship at midnight on the night of Maha Ashtami by offering 56 types of dishes.

Religious Beliefs and Festivals

• Sacrifice Practice: Sacrifices of goats, sheep, pigeons, and fish are offered here. There are unique popular beliefs that flies do not sit on the blood produced during sacrifice and it does not leave a stain even if it gets on clothes.
• Festivals: The largest fair is held here during Bada Dashain and Chaite Dashain. There is also a special custom of bringing new vehicles here to receive blessings.
• Shanti Sagar: It is a religious belief that wishes are fulfilled by worshiping after bathing in this sacred pond located in the temple complex.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• Location: Situated in Sakhada, approximately 10 km south of Rajbiraj (the headquarters of Saptari District).
• By Air: The nearest airport is Rajbiraj Airport. Alternatively, fly to Biratnagar and take a bus or private vehicle to Rajbiraj.
• By Road: Regular buses connect Rajbiraj to Kathmandu (approx. 8-10 hours). From Rajbiraj, local e-rickshaws, rickshaws, and buses provide easy transport to the temple (approx. 30 mins).
• From India: The temple is near the Nepal-India border (Neur border) and is very accessible from Bihar, India.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March. The temple is most vibrant during Bada Dashain and Chaite Dashain, when thousands of pilgrims gather for rituals and fairs. Saturdays are also particularly busy weekly auspicious days.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Ritual Bath: Many devotees bathe in the Shanti Sagar pond within the complex before offering prayers.
• Dress Code: Modest and traditional clothing is recommended.
• Facilities: Basic guesthouses are available near the temple; more comprehensive facilities can be found in Rajbiraj.
• Photography: Usually permitted in the courtyard, but restrictions may apply inside the main sanctum.