Sightseeing · Dhulikhel
Bhagwati Temple, Dhulikhel
A historic three-tiered Newari temple to the goddess Bhagwati at the top of the old town.
The Bhagwati Temple is the principal Hindu shrine of Dhulikhel — a historic tiered Newari pagoda dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, a fierce form of Durga, standing at the upper edge of the old Newari town. With its carved wooden struts, brick tiers and small courtyard, it is both an active place of worship and one of the town's architectural landmarks.
What to see
The temple sits on raised ground, so its terrace gives a fine outlook over the brick roofs of the old town toward the hills. It is busiest during festivals, especially around Dashain, when the goddess is widely worshipped across Nepal. On an ordinary day it is a quiet, atmospheric stop where you can admire the woodwork and watch local devotees make offerings.
Good to know
- Dress modestly and remove shoes where indicated; this is an active shrine.
- Ask before photographing people at worship.
- It is a five-minute walk from the main old-town squares.
Visit on a wander through the old Newari town, then climb on to the Dhulikhel sunrise viewpoint above, or set out from here toward Namobuddha. To understand the temple traditions, read our guides to Newar culture and heritage and the festivals of Nepal.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Bhagwati Temple in Dhulikhel?+
It is a historic Newari temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, a form of Durga, standing at the upper edge of the old town. The tiered pagoda has carved wooden struts and is an active place of worship for local Newar residents.
Can you visit the Bhagwati Temple?+
Yes — the temple courtyard is open and is an easy stop while exploring the old town. As an active Hindu shrine, dress modestly, remove shoes where indicated and ask before photographing people at worship.
Is the Bhagwati Temple worth visiting?+
It is a short, rewarding stop rather than a major attraction in its own right, best combined with a wander through the old Newari lanes and the climb to the sunrise viewpoint above town.
