Kakani Devi

Kakani Devi (Champadevi Kakani) Temple, located on the border of Champadevi and Sunkoshi Rural Municipalities of Okhaldhunga district, is an extremely important natural Shakti Peetha. Located at an altitude of about 2,400 meters above sea level, this temple is a unique confluence of spiritual peace and natural beauty.

History and Religious Importance

Although the formal establishment of Kakani Devi Temple is believed to have taken place in 2014 BS, it is an ancient natural Shakti Peetha. This temple is a common center of faith for both Hindu and Kirat communities. In this place, considered an important religious site of the Wallo Kirat region, there is a popular belief that children are obtained and wishes are fulfilled if worshiped with a pure heart.

Architecture and Structure

This temple is not a man-made building but is located in a cave (odar) of a huge cliff. The main attraction of the temple is a natural waterfall about 15 feet high located here, which flows continuously throughout the year. There is an mandatory tradition for devotees to visit the Goddess only after bathing in this waterfall. Inside the temple, there are natural stones of Mahadev, Sansari Mata, Nag-Nagini, and Ganesh along with Champadevi.

Fairs and Jatra

• Haribodhini Ekadashi Fair: A large fair is held here every year from Haribodhini Ekadashi to Panchami.
• Shaman Dance (Jhankri Nach): A special cultural dance of local Shamans is performed during the fair, which is the main attraction of this region.

Legend and Feature

• Mystery of Waterfall: According to local belief, as the crowd of visitors in the temple increases, the flow of water in the waterfall also increases.
• Cold Water: Devotees say that even though the water of the waterfall is very cold, as soon as the water falls on the body while bathing there, it dries up immediately and the cold starts to decrease.
• Relation with Okhal: There is a legend connected with this region that the name of Okhaldhunga was after a mortar-shaped stone located here and Bhimsen had crushed rice here.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• By Road: Take a bus or private jeep from Kathmandu (Koteshwor area) to Okhaldhunga Bazaar (approx. 8–10 hours) via the BP and Mid-Hill Highways.
• By Air: Seasonal flights are available from Kathmandu to Rumjatar Airport. From Rumjatar, take a local jeep toward Champadevi.
• Local Access: From the motorable point in Champadevi, a hike of approximately 1–2 hours is required to reach the hilltop temple.

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn (September to November) & Spring (March to May): The most popular times when the weather is clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges including Mt. Everest.
• Haribodhini Ekadashi: This is the most significant time for pilgrims when a large fair (mela) is held.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Ritual Bathing: It is a mandatory tradition for devotees to bathe in the natural waterfall located at the temple before entering the shrine.
• Shamanic Culture: Major festivals often feature traditional Jhakri (shaman) dances, which are a unique cultural highlight of the region.
• Preparation: Wear comfortable hiking shoes for the uphill climb and carry sufficient water.
• Accommodation: Basic lodges are available in the Champadevi area, or you can find better facilities in Okhaldhunga Bazaar.