Maula Kalika Temple

Maula Kalika Temple sits atop a hill in Gaindakot with sweeping views of the Narayani River, Chitwan Valley, and surrounding mountains. The sanctuary features a main prayer hall with several smaller shrines arranged across the hilltop.

A king from Palpa named the place Maula in the 16th century and later built a temple dedicated to goddess Kalika. The current structure dates to the early 1990s and has since grown into a major pilgrimage destination.

The temple honors the goddess Durga, known locally as Kali or Kalika, and draws pilgrims who come to offer prayers and seek blessings for their lives. You will find worshippers engaged in daily rituals and spiritual practices throughout the shrine.

You can reach the temple by hiking from Gaindakot along a winding trail with steps that climbs steadily uphill and requires moderate fitness. It is best to start early and bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water, as shade is limited along the route.

The shrine features an automated water supply system, which is a remarkable technical detail for a hilltop location far from natural water sources. Marble plaques inside display the names of donors who contributed to the temple's construction in the 1990s.