Far West & Karnali · Badimalika
Badimalika Janai Purnima Mela
बडिमालिका मेला
On Janai Purnima, thousands of pilgrims walk for days to the Badimalika temple at about 4,220 m in Bajura, where Sati's left shoulder is believed to have fallen. They bathe at Triveni, climb to the shrine, renew sacred threads and sing Deuda through the night on the high pastures.
Janai Purnima, the full moon of the month of Shrawan, is when Hindu men across Nepal change the sacred thread, janai, and many people tie a protective thread on the wrist. In the far west it is also the day of the greatest pilgrimage of the year, to Badimalika, the mountain goddess of Bajura, whose temple stands on a ridge at about 4,220 m. Malika Chaturdashi, on the eve of the full moon, is the temple's main festival.
Pilgrims set out days before from Bajura, Achham, Kalikot, Jumla and beyond, walking from roadheads such as Martadi through villages and forest to Triveni Dham, where three streams meet. There they camp, bathe and prepare offerings, then climb in the dark to reach the temple. The two priests of Badimalika, one from Kalikot and one from Bajura, receive offerings of flowers, coconuts, red cloth and coins.
Around the temple and at Triveni, temporary tea shops under tarpaulin sell tea, noodles and snacks, and the nights are filled with Deuda, sung in circles on the cold grass. The fair falls in the monsoon, with rain, mist and mud, but the devotion of the crowds and the setting far above the tree line make it one of the most remarkable gatherings in the Himalaya.
Tips
- Start the trek from Martadi at least four days before the full moon to arrive acclimatised and unhurried.
- Bring full rain gear, a strong tent and a four-season sleeping bag; nights at 4,000 m are cold even in August.
- Expect crowded trails near the temple; follow your guide, keep together in the dark and respect pilgrims making offerings.
Questions
When is the Badimalika fair?
On Janai Purnima, the full moon of Shrawan, usually in August, with Malika Chaturdashi celebrated on the eve. Pilgrims arrive over several days before. The date follows the lunar calendar and changes each year, so check current status before you travel.
How many days does it take to reach the Badimalika fair?
From Martadi, the Bajura headquarters, the trek takes three to four days to the temple via Triveni Dham. Reaching Martadi from Dhangadhi takes a long day by road. Plan ten to fourteen days in total from Kathmandu, with spare days for monsoon delays.
Can foreigners attend the Badimalika fair?
Yes. Respectful foreign visitors are welcome, though very few make the journey. Travel with a licensed agency and guide, follow the priests' and pilgrims' customs at the temple, ask before photographing, and be prepared for basic conditions and large crowds.
Is there mobile coverage at Badimalika during the fair?
Nepal Telecom installed a 4G tower in the Badimalika area ahead of the Janai Purnima fair, so there is now coverage near the temple, though it may be patchy and congested. Carry a satellite messenger or agree emergency plans with your guide as a backup.