Maula Kalika (Dada Kalika) Temple

Maula Kalika temple (मौलाकालिका मन्दिर) is a famous and religious temple dedicated to Hindu goddess Kalika situated at the height of 561 meters above the sea level and located in Gaidakot town near Narayangarh city of Nawalparasi district of Nepal. The temple is located at the top hill of Maula hill towards the north from Narayani River and is a famous tourist destination also offering gorgeous views of surroundings such as natural sceneries, beautiful landscapes, and city/residential areas. It is believed that King of Palpa in the 16^th century had created a symbolic site as “Maula” in the name of goddess Kalika after which was the name of the Hill i.e. Maula hill was derived. The temple is very important from a religious perspective and dedicated to goddess Durga (also known as Kali, Kalika, etc.) who is also considered as the symbol of energy, power, and a new beginning and many devotees visit this temple with the belief of fulfillment of their wishes and desires.

Hike to Maula Kalika temple can be stated from Gaidakot which takes about 2 hours of walk to reach the temple. It is the famous hiking destination for the people of nearby including Gaidakot and Bharatpur area, who mostly prefer to spend leisure time visiting or hiking this temple. The hiking trail is approximately 2,000 meters long sloping and curving stairs which provide the view of wide spectacular views with the beautiful cool flow of wind. The summit of the temple provides gorgeous and panoramic views of Narayani River, Gaindakot town and Chitwan Valley on the south of the hill and magnificent Mt. Manaslu on the north side of the hill. Visiting the temple, early in the morning, offers the beautiful sunrise view and many visitors also prefer to be in this place in the early morning.

Moreover, Maula Kalika temple is a religiously important site with enrichment in natural sceneries and beautiful views. A visit to this temple can be completed in half day and many tourists visiting Chitwan National Park and Lumbini separate some of their time to visit this temple and considered to be a famous tourist destination.