Dakshinkali Temple

The name of the Dakshinkali Temple comes from a combination of the terms 'south,' which is derived from the word 'Dakshin,' and the name 'Kali,' which is derived from the name of the deity that is worshipped at the temple. The temple is a popular spot for Hindu pilgrims to visit; it is located in a rocky cleft in the middle of the forest where two holy streams meet, which can be found 22 kilometers away from Kathmandu in the direction of the south. 

Things to do at Dakshinkali Temple:

• Buy some offerings for the Goddess before you make your way into the temple:

One must first make their way through a religious bazaar, which is frequently obscured by haze caused by smoke from open flames. Along with heaps of marigolds, coconuts, and other gifts for the goddess, local farmers bring their wares here to sell so they can be used in the feasts after the sacrifices.

• Understand the mythological and religious significance of the statue:

As a symbol of triumph of good over evil, the statue of the Goddess can be seen standing atop a dead body in this image. The four-armed idol depicts the picture of a powerful divine person who has arrived to conquer evil and emerge victorious. The idol is adorned with a sword in one hand, a skull cap in another, and a severed head in the third hand.

• Observe the ceremonies and customs practiced at this temple:

At this sacred site, an offering is made to the fearsome partner of Lord Shiva twice a week in the form of a sacrifice of animals. In particular, uncastrated male goats and cockers are the animals of choice for this ritual. After the sacrifice, the meat is placed in the pot, and the pilgrims bring all the items for a forest barbeque. They then spend the rest of the day dining in the shade of the trees. Visitors are welcome to observe the ceremony from the surrounding terraces. 

However, remember that the sacrifices are part of a religious ceremony with great spiritual importance for the people who live in the area. They are not simply an opportunity to take gory pictures.

• Learn about unusual annual rituals here:

The temple is submerged in a sea of blood during the yearly celebrations of Dasain, which occur in October. The image of Kali is immersed in blood.

• Explore the neighborhood:

A road departs from behind the main temple and winds its way up the hill to the smaller Mata Temple that sits atop the hill, which provides excellent vistas of the surrounding forest.