DAKSHINKALI

Dakshinkali Temple; is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and is one of the most popular places of worship in Kathmandu. The word Dakshinkali is made up of Dakshin and Kali. Dakshin means south and Kali is derived from one of the Hindu goddess Kali. So it basically means the goddess Kali of the south. Located 22 km from the city center on the southern rim of the valley past Pharping village, the shrine is especially crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays when animal sacrifices are offered to the deity. According to a mythology the Goddess Durga has killed the demon and drank the fresh blood of animals. So lots of devotees gather there in a huge mass especially on Tuesday and Saturday where they usually sacrifice rooster and he goats. This is the reason blood is scarified to her.

The temple was built by Pratap Malla during 17th century, but the construction, seems to be very new. The preparation before and after the offering is very interesting to see. On the way back, we stop at Chobhar gorge. Legend has it that Manjushree cutout the gorge to drain out Kathmandu valley was then a lake. There is a small but picturesque temple of Adinath on the top of a hill. From this top one can have a completed view of snowcapped mountains peaks.

On the way, the sight of the gorge is impressive and it is worthwhile to walk down and across the old suspension bridge, throwing a glance down into the very narrow and deep chasm. In the midway near the village of Pharping, lies the the pleasant spot. Place to visit.