Pathivara Devi Temple

Pathivara Devi temple, situated in the eastern part of Nepal, holds immense significance for the Limbu people and attracts pilgrims from both India and Nepal. The temple is perched on the hills of the Taplejung district, specifically to the east of Phungling Municipality, at an altitude of 3,794 meters (12,444 feet).

The name "Pathivara" is derived from the shape of the surrounding mountains, which resembles a path or container for grains. The temple has a rich folklore associated with it. According to the local legend, a shepherd faced the loss of hundreds of sheep while grazing. In his distress, the shepherd had a dream where a goddess, believed to be Pathivara Devi, appeared to him. The goddess instructed the shepherd to perform a ritualistic sacrifice of sheep and also urged him to construct a memorial in her honor.

Following the goddess's guidance, the shepherd carried out the prescribed rituals and built a memorial at the site. Miraculously, after these actions were taken, all the lost sheep returned. This event is considered a divine intervention, reinforcing the belief in the deity's power and prompting the construction of the Pathivara Devi temple.

The temple has since become a revered pilgrimage site, drawing devotees who believe that worshiping Pathivara Devi can fulfill their wishes and desires. The annual influx of thousands of pilgrims from India and Nepal is a testament to the faith and devotion associated with this sacred place. The location's natural beauty, coupled with its religious significance, makes Pathivara Devi temple a unique and spiritually significant destination in the region.

 Major attractions in Pathivara Devi Temple

● Panoramic view of mountains

● Habitat of different species of birds, beautiful butterflies, and flowers

● The mesmerizing view of the third highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga

● Beautiful view of the waterfall at Sawa and the pond of Timbung

● Famous monasteries like Olangchung Gola and Lung Chung

● Best viewpoint at an altitude of 3800m

Best time to visit Pathivara Devi Temple

The best time to visit the Pathivara Devi temple is from March and throughout June and during September to November, so it is the best way to visit Pathivara Devi Temple during the Autumn and Spring season.

How to reach Pathivara Devi Temple

Day 1- Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2- From Kathmandu, take an early morning drive to Kakarvitta, Jhapa

Day 3- Day tour and sightseeing in Kakarvitta towns and drive to Illam from Jhapa

Day 4- Half day sightseeing  in IIIam Tea Garden and 6 hours drive to Taplejung (Phungling Bazar)

Day 5-From Phungling, 2 hours drive to Sano Phedi and from there, 4 hours of walk to Pathivara

Day 6- Either take a flight from Suketar to Kathmandu or take 24hrs drive from Taplejung to Kathmandu