Maula Kalika Temple

Maula Kalika (Nepali: मौलाकालिका मन्दिर, pronounced [ˈmʌu̯la kalika]) is a famous Hindu temple of Goddess Kalika in Gaindakot town of Nawalpur district in Gandaki province of Nepal. Located on the top of the Mauladada or Maula hill on the north of Narayani River (also called Gandaki River) in Gaindakot, Maula Kalika temple is situated 561 metres (1,841 ft) above sea level.

Historically, it is said that in the 16th century the King of Palpa created a symbolic offering site (“Maula”) in the name of goddess Kalika after which the name of the mountain (Maula hill) was derived.

It is believed, in Hindu mythology that the Goddess Kali or Kalika also called Durga is the symbol of energy, power and new beginning.The temple has been renovated several times by the local people. The base area has been widened to adjust for more visitors.

Local people in Gaindakot have been worshipping at the Maula Kalika for many centuries before it got widespread popularity. The current temple was built in the early 1990s.

Hundreds of thousands of people visit Maula Kalika every year from Nepal and neighbouring countries. Dashain festival in September–October and in March–April are peak seasons when the goddess Kalika or Kali (also called Nav Durga, the 9 different incarnations of Goddess Kalika) is worshipped during these festive seasons.