Palanchok Bhagwati

Located in Kavrepalanchok district, Palanchok Bhagwati is an extremely powerful and famous Shakti Peetha in Nepal. Believed to have been built in the Licchavi period, this temple houses a beautiful idol of the Goddess. A large crowd of devotees gathers here especially during Bada Dashain, Chaite Dashain, and other religious festivals. The natural environment around the temple further attracts visitors.

History and Legend

The construction of Palanchok Bhagwati Temple is believed to have taken place during the reign of Licchavi King Manadeva I (around 425 AD). According to legend, the idol of Bhagwati was previously in 'Buchakot'. After the Goddess urged the king in a dream to take her north, it was rested at the current location as night fell during the journey, and when the idol could not be lifted the next day, it was established there. Since 60 local households helped to lift the idol, the name of that place is believed to have become 'Sathighar' (sixty houses).

Architecture and Statue

The temple is built in a grand three-story pagoda style, with its roof covered in copper and the pinnacle (gajur) gold-plated. Inside the temple is an extremely artistic 18-armed idol of Bhagwati, about 3 feet high, made of black stone. In the statue, the scene of Bhagwati killing the demon Mahishasura can be seen. It is said that the hands of the artist who made this statue were cut off so that he could not make such a beautiful statue elsewhere. There is a popular belief that the same artist later made the idols of Naxal Bhagwati and Shobha Bhagwati.

Religious Importance and Festivals

Palanchok Bhagwati is considered the presiding deity of power. This temple is a common center of faith for both Hindu and Buddhist followers.

• Bada Dashain and Chaite Dashain: There is a large crowd of devotees offering sacrifices here during Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami of Dashain.
• Purnima Fair: A grand fair is held here on Baisakh Purnima (Chandi Purnima) and Kartik Purnima. There is a tradition of performing a chariot procession (Rath Yatra) of Bhagwati on Baisakh Purnima.
• Special Day for Visit: Tuesday and Saturday of the week are considered special days for worship here. A panoramic Himalayan view and a beautiful view of the Panchkhal Valley can be seen from the temple.