Dakshinkali Temple, Kathmandu

The Dakshinkali Temple, also known as Dakshin Kali Temple, situated 22 kilometers outside Kathmandu and approximately 1 kilometer outside Pharping village, is a significant Hindu temple in Nepal devoted to the goddess Kali. Depicted with her right foot on Shiva's chest, Dakshin Kali symbolizes power, while the portrayal with her left foot on Shiva's chest represents Vamakali, a more formidable aspect. The temple's worship primarily involves animal sacrifices, notably of cockerels and uncastrated male goats, especially during the Dashain festival.

This temple holds comparable religious significance to the Pashupatinath Temple and the Manakamana Temple in Nepal and attracts tourists due to its popularity as a hiking spot near Pharping village. Dakshinakali, the compassionate form of Kali, is revered as a protector, safeguarding devotees and their offspring from harm and adversity.

The name Dakshinakali derives from "Dakshina," referring to offerings made to a priest or guru before rituals, typically given with the right hand. Dakshinakali is often depicted with two right hands, symbolizing blessings and the bestowal of blessings. One legend behind her name originates from the tale of Yama, the god of death, who fled in fear upon hearing Kali's name. Consequently, worshippers of Kali are believed to transcend death. Notably, the temple's location in the southern part of the Kathmandu Valley corresponds with the "dakshin" aspect of its name.