Will We Join The Communal BBQ On Our Way To The Caves?

Sounds nice doesn't it?

Well, I suppose I should explain in a little greater detail what this one entails.

Once we get back to Nepal after our time in Bhutan we are gonna cool our heals for about 5 days in the Kathmandu Valley. There will be *plenty* to see and do. I have a couple of ideas for day trips around the Valley one of which includes a visit to the caves in Pharping.

The Padmasambhava Cave in Pharping has its name after Padmashambhava, widely know as Guru Rinpoche. In the 18th century A.D. he meditated in these caves for about 6 months, while he was on his way to Tibet at an invitation by Tibet King Tshering Dechen. As he acquired mystic power, he checked himself by carving his palm print by melting the rock, which can still be seen above the entrance of this cave.

On the way to Pharping there is an important Hindu temple to visit.

Dakshinkali Temple dedicated to Kali, the fearful form of Lord Siva’s consort, Parvati. The main deity in the temple is the black stone, six-armed form of Kali, standing on a prostrated figure.

Dakshinkali is at the south end of the valley between two hills and at the confluence of two rivers. Sacrifices are made two times a week at this temple. The animals sacrificed have to be unsaturated males. Saturday is the main day and there are also sacrifices on Tuesdays.

When I first read about Dakshinkali I wasn't too keen on attending the sacrifice but I've come around to it particularly after one of my coworkers pointed out to me that in the end everyone gets a piece of meat and it turns into a communal bbq. Not so sure my mom will get behind this trip. Might be a solo venture :-)!

Caves at Pharping & Sacrifice At Dakshinkali