:Draft:Melauli Bhagwati Mandir, Baitadi

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{{Infobox Hindu temple|name=Melauli Bhagwati Mandir|native_name=मेलौली भगवती मन्दिर|caption=Melauli Bhagwati Temple in Duwachaur, Baitadi|map_type=Nepal|map_caption=Location in Nepal|country=Nepal|state=Sudurpaschim Province|district=Baitadi District|location=Melauli Municipality, Duwachaur|elevation_m=1700|deity=Goddess Bhagwati|architecture_style=Pagoda|year_completed=11th century (legendary origin)|reconstructed=|image=}}Melauli Bhagwati Mandir (मेलौली भगवती मन्दिर) is a historic and culturally significant Hindu temple located in the scenic Duwachaur area of Melauli Municipality in the Baitadi District of Sudurpaschim Province, Nepal. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, a fierce form of Shakti and is considered one of the important Shaktipeeths of the region.{{Cite web |last=Joshi |first=Naresh |date=2024-01-22 |title=Melauli Bhagwati Temple - The Magnificent Temple In Baitadi |url=https://thetravellerduo.com/magnificent-melauli-bhagwati-mandir-of-baitadi/#google_vignette |access-date=2025-04-19 |language=en-US}}

Location and Architecture

The temple is situated at an altitude of approximately 1700 meters above sea level. It is built in the traditional pagoda style with intricate wooden carvings and stonework. Surrounded by green hills and offering panoramic views, the site is noted for its serene environment and natural beauty.

Legend and History

According to local legend, the temple was established in the 11th century when the Katyura dynasty from Kumaon, India migrated to the Kalitari region of Nepal to escape Hindu-Muslim conflict. A miraculous rock discovered by villagers—believed to exude water and sacred energy—became the site of the temple. Devotees believe that the temple was constructed over this divine rock, which is still visible inside the sanctum.{{Cite web |date=2024-09-13 |title=Melauli Bhagwati Mandir, A Sacred Temple in Baitadi - What The Nepal |url=https://whatthenepal.com/2024/09/13/journey-to-melauli-bhagwati-mandir-a-sacred-site-in-baitadi/#google_vignette |access-date=2025-04-19 |language=en-US}}

Religious Significance

Melauli Bhagwati Mandir is an important religious destination for followers of Hinduism. Worshipers believe that prayers offered here are fulfilled through the blessings of the goddess. The temple is especially crowded during:

The temple priests are traditionally from the Bhatta Brahmin community of Pali, with spiritual authority also extending to Ojha, Joshi, Bagh, and Paintola lineages.

Festivals and Fairs

The temple hosts several vibrant religious festivals throughout the year. During Kartik Shukla Chaturdashi and Purnima, a grand fair (mela) takes place, attracting thousands of pilgrims from across Nepal and India. Cultural festivities include:

Deuda singing and dancing
Dol Jatra
The mystical Dhami ceremony at sunrise, where a spiritual practitioner reportedly burns without harm for about an hour

These events serve not only as religious rites but also as social reunions for separated friends and families.

Location

The nearest airport is Dhangadhi Airport, which connects to major cities like Kathmandu. From Dhangadhi, travelers can take a bus or jeep to the district headquarters of Baitadi, and continue 30 km further via the Patan-Melauli section of the Patan–Pancheswar Road.

External Links

मेलौली भगवती मन्दिर - Nepali Wikipedia