- Purnima Giri
Bajura is home to the sacred Badimalika temple, situated at an impressive altitude of 4,219 meters above sea level. This temple holds great significance not only due to its remote location but also because of its breathtaking natural beauty. Among the revered seven sister goddesses in the Far Western region, Badimalika is considered the elder sister, also known as the ‘Jethi ShaktiPeeth.’
In the Far Western region of Nepal, people worship the seven sister goddesses, namely Shailshwari in Dailekh, Ugratara in Dadeldhura, Badimalika in Bajura, Ninglashaini, Dilashaini Tripura Sundari and Melauli Bhagwati in Baitadi District.
The temple of Badimalika is situated in Bajura district, within the Badimalika Municipality. Among the Thumka pilgrimage sites in the western region, the Badimalika Temple holds the highest significance. It hosts a grand fair during the auspicious occasion of ‘Janai Purnima.’
Travelers have the opportunity to explore various internal pilgrimage sites, including Kumau -Gadhwal, India, during Janai Purnima, and then proceed to Badimalika for an enriching experience. Devotees believe that visiting the temple grants good health, prosperity, and the fulfillment of one’s desires. Additionally, people also worship at Mallagiri Parbat, where the Goddess is believed to have resided before establishing herself as Badimalika.
How to reach Badimalika ?
To reach Badimalika, travelers can initially travel to Dhangadhi, Kailali, either by bus or flight from Kathmandu or other convenient locations. From Dhangadhi, one can take a bus or reserve a jeep to reach Martadi in Bajura. Spending the first night at Martadi or Bamka Bazaar is advisable. The journey to Badimalika begins on the second day with a trek from Bamka Bazaar to Sota, followed by another trek from Sota to Triveni on the third day. On the fourth day, travelers reach the sacred destination of Badimalika. The return journey follows the same route.
The ideal time to visit :
The ideal time to visit Badimalika is from the month of Ashoj (September) to Bhadra (August). A week’s time and a budget of around 20,000 Nepali Rupees are generally sufficient for the trip.
Badimalika, where hotel and lodging facilities are unavailable, if you plan to stay for three days, it is essential to carry a small tent with necessary clothing, a sleeping bag, a raincoat, a flashlight, and self-prepared food and medication. Additionally, a map and a guide are also necessary for such a journey.
It is crucial to note that historically, people from the Dalit community, belonging to the Untouchable caste, were not allowed to visit Badimalika. However, the deity herself intervened to fulfill the wish of a Dalit person to visit the temple, breaking the barriers of discrimination.
Apart from its religious significance, Badimalika captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty, attracting both devoted pilgrims and curious travelers alike.
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