Pathibhara Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Taplejung district of Nepal, in the eastern part of the country. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Pathibhara, who is believed to be a powerful deity who can grant wishes and fulfill desires. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,793 meters (12,442 ft) above sea level and can be reached by foot via a steep trail that takes about 4 to 5 hours to climb. The trek to Pathibhara Devi Temple is considered a sacred pilgrimage and is popular among the local people, especially during the annual Pathibhara Mela festival, which is held in August/September.
The temple is considered one of the most sacred places in Nepal and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The temple is also known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas, including Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
It is important to note that the trek to the temple requires proper preparation and acclimatization, as the trail is steep and can be physically demanding. It’s important to be properly equipped with warm clothing, good hiking boots, and a good backpack. The best time to trek to Pathibhara Devi Temple is from September to November and from March to May.
One of the major attractions of the temple is the annual Pathibhara Devi Jatra, a festival celebrated by the local community to honor the goddess. During the festival, thousands of devotees from all over Nepal and India visit the temple to offer prayers and participate in various rituals.
Religious Significance: The temple is considered a revered and holy shrine, attracting thousands of devotees every year who come to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Surrounded by Natural Beauty: The temple is located in the midst of the stunning natural beauty of the Taplejung region, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests.
Popular Pilgrimage: Pathibhara Devi Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees from Nepal and surrounding areas.
Cultural and Historical Heritage: The temple holds rich cultural and historical significance, representing the unique blend of religion and tradition in Nepal.
Hiking Opportunities: The temple also offers trekking opportunities for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
How to reach Pathibhara Devi Temple?
There are several ways to reach Pathibhara Devi Temple.
By Air: The nearest airport is Suketar Airport, which is located approximately 38 km from the temple. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
By Bus / Scorpio : Regular buses are available from Kathmandu and other major cities in Nepal to Taplejung. From Taplejung, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
By Trekking: Pathibhara Devi Temple is also accessible by a trek, which starts from Suketar and passes through scenic villages, forests, and alpine meadows. The trek is considered challenging, and one should be physically fit and well-prepared for the journey.
By Helicopter: A helicopter service is also available from Kathmandu to Suketar, which is the starting point for the trek to the temple. This is the quickest way to reach the temple, but it is also the most expensive.