Pathibhara Devi Temple

Pathibhara Devi Temple stands on a windswept ridge at about 3,794 m in Taplejung district, in the far east of Nepal. The goddess Pathibhara (regarded as a form of the mother goddess) is believed to fulfil the wishes of those who make the strenuous pilgrimage, and the site commands sweeping views toward Kanchenjunga.

The shrine has been venerated for centuries by the Limbu (Kirat) and wider Hindu communities of the eastern hills, with legends linking its origin to a shepherd's loss of sheep and the goddess's demand for offerings. It has grown into a regionally pre-eminent pilgrimage.

Pathibhara is one of the most important Shakti Peethas of eastern Nepal, drawing huge numbers of pilgrims — including from India — especially during Dashain and on full-moon days, who climb to offer sacrifices and prayers.

The shrine is a relatively small stone-and-metal temple on the bare summit, surrounded by trident offerings, bells and prayer flags; its significance derives from the sacred site and the arduous high-altitude approach rather than monumental scale.

Current condition: Active high-altitude pilgrimage site

Managed by the Pathibhara Area Development Committee; high-altitude weathering and growing visitor numbers are the main concerns.