BAJURA: The Badimalika Puja has officially begun at the Badimalika Temple in Bajura, marking the start of religious activities at one of the region’s prominent pilgrimage and tourism destinations.
A district-level all-party meeting coordinated by the District Coordination Committee decided to begin the worship earlier than usual in anticipation of a large number of pilgrims, particularly ahead of the main puja scheduled for August 27. More than 45,000 devotees visited the temple last year, including pilgrims from various districts of Nepal and neighboring India.
The recent construction of a new temple by the Nepali Army is also expected to increase the number of visitors this year. Local authorities, including Badimalika Municipality Mayor Amar Bahadur Khadka, said preparations for the puja and associated fair have been completed in coordination with the district administration, local governments and security agencies.
Fourteen measures have been introduced to ensure the safety and orderly movement of pilgrims during the festival. Authorities have also prohibited alcohol, drugs and meat products in the area to preserve the religious sanctity of the site. Signs and information boards are being installed along the route to the temple to assist pilgrims.
District Coordinating Officer Dipendra Pandey said the district administration, security agencies and local authorities are prepared to provide emergency assistance to pilgrims. Coordination has also been established with the district hospital and health office, while the Nepali Army will provide additional support alongside health workers.
Authorities are also working to improve communication facilities in the area by bringing a 4G tower into operation before the fair. However, construction has been delayed by adverse weather and difficulties transporting equipment due to the lack of a road network.
Ishwar Singh, head of the Nepal Telecom Telecommunications Office, said a technical team recently spent a week at the site but had to return after bad weather disrupted the work and equipment failed to arrive on schedule. Although technicians had initially reached the site, construction could not proceed after the necessary equipment was delayed.
Chief District Officer Dorendra Niraula said a team from Badimalika Municipality is currently transporting materials to the tower construction site. Authorities are aiming to have communication services operational before the upcoming fair.
Mayor Khadka said tourist activity in Badimalika has increased significantly as the main festival approaches and the puja has begun. The destination has also attracted increased attention after Prime Minister Balendra Shah described Badimalika as the “Switzerland of Nepal” during a recent election campaign.
Known as Bhu-Swarg, or “earthly paradise,” Badimalika lies at an elevation of around 4,200 meters and is renowned for its natural beauty as well as religious significance. The area attracts visitors throughout the year, with the largest influx occurring during the main puja held on the eve of Janaipurnima.
According to local religious beliefs, worship at Badimalika can fulfill wishes and cure ailments, drawing both domestic and foreign devotees. The region’s major attractions include the scenic Triveni area, diverse flora and notable sites such as Kehitibeti, Bishnupani and Dharmadwar.
Local legends have further contributed to the cultural appeal of Badimalika, including the story of paddy that is believed to have remained unchanged since an ancient battle. The area is also home to diverse wildlife and rare bird species, making Badimalika a destination that combines religious pilgrimage with opportunities to experience the region’s natural environment.
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