Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple – Nepal

Address

Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple – Nepal

Palanchok – Bhagawati Rd,

Panchkhal 45212,

Nepal

Amman

Bhagwati

Introduction

• Location: The Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple is situated 7 km north of the Panchkhal Mountain, 15 km from Dhulikhel, and 42 km from Kathmandu, Nepal. It is located atop Palanchowk Hill, at an elevation of 1563 meters, and is accessible via a road connecting to the Arniko Highway.
• Deity: The main deity of the temple is Goddess Bhagwati, represented by a 3-foot tall idol carved from black stone.

Puranic Significance

• The Legend of the Temple’s Origin:
  • The origins of the Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple are deeply rooted in Nepalese history and mythology, specifically tracing back to the Licchavi Dynasty and its first ruler, King Mānadeva.
  • The Dream of King Mānadeva: According to folklore, King Mānadeva was once visited in his dreams by Goddess Bhagwati, who instructed him to relocate her idol from Buchhakot, a small village to the north, to a new location.
  • The Royal Journey: Without delay, the King and his Queen, along with a royal entourage, embarked on a journey to relocate the idol. They carried the idol on their shoulders and made their way towards the north.
  • The Incident at Jagpankpur: When the royal retinue reached a wooded hilltop known as Jagpankpur, they attempted to lift the idol at sunset, but found that no one could carry it, no matter how hard they tried. This unexpected event created confusion and uncertainty in the camp.
  • The Decision: After consulting with priests, pundits, and Tantriks (spiritual advisors), it was concluded that the Goddess Bhagwati had chosen that very spot as her place of worship. The royal priests advised the King to establish the temple where the idol had been placed for the night.
  • The Foundation of Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple: Thus, the Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple was constructed at the very spot, marking Jagpankpur as a significant pilgrimage site, which eventually became known as Palanchok Bhagwati.

Century/Period

1000 Years Old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Panchkhal

Nearest Railway Station

Raxaul and Gorakhpur

Nearest Airport

Kathmandu

Location on Map

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