Chhabdibarahi Temple

anandab

January 3, 2026

Overview of Chhabdivarahi

Chhabdivarahi is a renowned Hindu religious site in Tanahun District, situated at the origin of the Chhabdi River. The temple is located 150 km west of Kathmandu, 57 km east of Pokhara, and about 7 km east of Tanahun headquarters. Its religious importance, mythological background, and natural beauty make Chhabdivarahi one of Nepal’s significant spiritual destinations.

According to the Shrimad Devi Bhagwat, sage Rishi Vedvyas meditated at this site to worship Goddess Jaldevi. He sought to honor his mother, Satyavati (Matsyagandha). Pleased with his devotion, the goddess granted him a boon and agreed to reside here in the name of his grandmother. Today, devotees believe she remains in the sacred pond in the form of a golden-hinged fish.

Religious and Cultural Significance

Chhabdivarahi is revered as the goddess of power and is believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes. The temple observes several traditional practices:

• Women cannot enter the temple during menstruation.
• Married women’s husbands must also follow this restriction.
• If a fish in the sacred pond dies, the temple priest performs Hindu rituals.

The temple complex also houses a Bhimsen temple and several statues of other Hindu deities. While animal sacrifice is traditional, it is prohibited on Aunsi, Ekadashi, and during the month of Shrawan.

Visitor Experience and Tourism

Chhabdivarahi attracts devotees year-round, except on restricted days. Historically, only Hindu worshippers visited. Today, visitors include:

• Domestic and international tourists
• Students on educational and cultural tours
• Families seeking picnics and spiritual visits

With planned infrastructure improvements and better management, the temple is expected to attract more national and foreign tourists, enhancing its role as a key religious and cultural tourism site in Tanahun.

Source- Gupta Bahadur Bhandari

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