Digre Saikumari

Digre Saikumari Bhagwati Temple, located in Tharpu of Musikot Municipality in Rukum West, is a famous religious and historical Shakti Peetha of the Karnali Province.

History and Legend

According to religious belief, the origin of this temple is believed to have taken place towards the end of the Dwapar Yuga. A bell from 1641 BS found in the temple confirms that this place has been a religious center since at least the 16th century. According to a prevalent story, after seeing the 'Kamu' and 'Dhenu' cows of the Musikote king offering milk on a stone (Shila), it was known that the power of the Goddess resided there and the temple was built.

Sagal Dance (Stick Dance)

The main and original attraction of the Digre fair is the 'Sagal Dance' (or Sakal Dance). This dance is especially performed by devotees from Shankh village of Musikot. To protect the power of the Goddess from negative energy, dancing is performed with sticks and spears along with music. Although the dance is performed by clashing sticks with each other in the temple complex, it is a popular belief that no one gets injured.

Digre Fair and Features

• Time: A grand fair is held every year for 5 days from Haribodhini Ekadashi to Kartik Shukla Purnima.
• Mystery of Water: A unique feature seen here is that as the crowd of devotees increases in the fair, the water level in the stone spouts near the temple also increases.
• Worship: There is a custom of offering goat sacrifice here to fulfill wishes. Thousands of visitors come here from Rukum, Rolpa, Salyan, and even from the neighboring country India.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• By Air: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then take a connecting flight to Musikot Airport (Salle). The temple is a short drive or hike from the airport.
• By Road: Direct buses run from Kathmandu to Musikot (approx. 18-22 hours). From Nepalgunj or Surkhet, local buses and jeeps are available via the Mid-Hill Highway (8-10 hours).
• Local Access: The temple is located in Tharpu, Musikot-5. It involves a short uphill walk or a drive to the base, followed by climbing stone steps to reach the main shrine.

Best Time to Visit

• Digre Mela (November): The most popular time is during the 5-day fair from Haribodhini Ekadashi to Kartik Purnima.
• Seasons: Autumn (October-November) offers clear skies. Spring (March-May) is ideal for enjoying the greenery. Monsoon (July-August) should be avoided due to difficult road conditions.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Timings: Open throughout the day; morning and evening are best for rituals.
• Sacrifice: Goat sacrifices are common but strictly prohibited on Ekadashi and Purnima (Full Moon) days.
• Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended.
• View: The temple hilltop offers panoramic views of the Musikot valley and surrounding Karnali hills.