Shaileshwari Mandir

Shaileshwari Mandir, located in Silgadhi of Doti district, is an extremely important and sacred religious site of Sudurpashchim Nepal. Located at an altitude of about 1,330 meters above sea level, this temple is considered one of the major Shakti Peethas among the Nine Bhagwatis of the Far West.

Mythological Story and Naming

• Shiv-Parvati's Honeymoon: According to mythological belief, Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati chose the scenic Chandragiri mountain (current Silgadhi hill) of Doti for their honeymoon (Madhuchandrika) after their marriage.
• Origin of Shila Devi: When gods including Brahma and Vishnu reached there searching for Shiva, Mother Parvati took the form of a stone (Shila) out of modesty upon seeing them. Therefore, she is called 'Shila Devi' or 'Shaileshwari' (Goddess of the Shail, i.e., mountain).
• Gauri Kunda: It is believed that the Gauri Kunda below the temple was formed from the sweat of Mother Parvati.

History

• Antiquity: Mention of this temple is also made in the Skanda Purana. Historically, it is linked with the Khas Malla kingdom of the 12th-13th century.
• Malla Period Relation: Evidences of land donation to this temple are found in the inscriptions and copper plates of the Khas Malla King Krachalla Deva. Since ancient times, Bhatta Brahmins of Silgaon have been performing daily worship here.

Architecture and Structure

• Pagoda Style: The temple is built in the traditional Nepali pagoda style. Its roof is of copper while the pinnacle (gajur) is gold-plated.
• Main Idol: Inside the temple is a black stone of Shiva, 6 inches high and 1 foot in circumference, which is worshipped as the joint form of Shiva and Parvati.
• Complex: There are also small temples of Ganesh, Bhairab, Mashta, Hanuman, and Chaturbhuj Narayan in the temple complex.

Festivals and Jatra

• Khat Jatra (Jaat): This is the most famous jatra here, which is celebrated grandly every 12 years during Kartik Purnima.
• Koti Hom: There is a tradition of organizing a grand Koti Hom Mahayajna every 12 years.
• Lakshabahan Mahayajna: Lakshabahan Mahayajna is organized here every year on the days of Jestha and Kartik Purnima. Special worship and sacrifice are also offered here during Dashain and Navaratri.