Badikedar Temple: A Rising Spiritual Destination in Nepal’s Far-West

By Yakendra Chand & Aprila Ghising Lama

Badikedar Temple in Doti district is steadily emerging as one of the most significant religious and tourism destinations in Nepal’s far-western region, attracting increasing numbers of pilgrims from across Nepal as well as neighbouring India. Despite its growing popularity and strong spiritual importance, local authorities say the area still requires major infrastructure upgrades to fully support and sustain rising visitor flows.

Nestled in the scenic hills of Doti, the temple holds deep religious significance for Hindu devotees and is considered an important spiritual centre. In recent years, it has also begun gaining attention as a tourism destination due to its natural beauty, serene environment, and panoramic views of the Api and Saipal Himalayan ranges.

Surrounded by dense forests and rich natural landscapes, Badikedar is now being promoted beyond its traditional pilgrimage identity. Local authorities and temple management committees have started expanding activities beyond the main festival season in an effort to attract more visitors throughout the year.

Traditionally, the largest religious gathering at Badikedar takes place during Kartik Shukla Trayodashi (October–November), drawing thousands of devotees for the annual fair. However, in recent years, additional fairs have also been organized during the Baisakh festival season to further promote religious tourism and increase engagement with visitors.

Despite this growing momentum, infrastructure remains a major challenge. The area still lacks adequate road access, well-developed walking trails, drinking water facilities, public toilets, accommodation options, and visitor information centres, limiting its full tourism potential.

Upendra Bal, Chairperson of the Badikedar Tourism Development and Management Committee, said coordination is ongoing with provincial and federal authorities to improve infrastructure and develop the site in a more structured way.

Officials believe that with improved facilities, better connectivity, and strategic promotion, Badikedar has the potential to become one of the leading religious tourism destinations in Nepal’s far-western region.