Author: explore_nepal
Tripura Sundari Temple (Ransaini), Baitadi
Overview & Significance
-
Name / Local Names: The temple is known as Tripura Sundari Temple, also locally called Ransaini Bhagwati or just Ransaini.
-
Location: It is situated in Dasharathchand Municipality, Baitadi District, Sudurpashchim, Nepal. More precisely, near Gothalapani (market area).
-
Architecture: Pagoda‐style temple, with decorative features (e.g. red marble tiles, copper features).
-
Deity: Goddess Tripura Sundari (a form of Goddess Bhagwati / Shakti) is worshipped here.
-
Religious Importance: It’s one of several Bhagwati (Goddess) temples in the region. Locally it has a powerful role; many devotees from Nepal and nearby India visit. It’s one of Nepal’s top 100 tourism / pilgrimage destinations.
Festivals & Events
-
Tripura Sundari Jatra: Held annually on Kartik Shukla Astami (in the Kartik month of the Hindu calendar). Big fair, large number of pilgrims (including from India) come. Animal sacrifices (e.g. buffalo) are part of the rituals during the Jatra.
Other Religious Observances:
• Monthly festivals: Sankranti, Purnima (full moon), Amavasya (new moon) days.
• During Dashain, chanting of Durga Saptasati and Divya Stotras.
• Jants (local fairs/celebrations) during Ashad & Kartik months (Shukla Navami, Dashami).
Getting There
-
From Kathmandu:
Travel to Dhangadhi (flight or long road journey) → then proceed by road/narrow local transport to Baitadi district. -
From within Baitadi / local places:
The temple is about 3 km from the district headquarters (Khalanga / Gothalapani area). -
From India:
Pilgrims often come from the Indian side via Jhulaghat, crossing the Mahakali River, then go uphill to the temple. -
Access: The road may be partly rough; some walking / uphill segments likely especially near the temple. Local buses / shared transport up to certain points.
What to Expect as a Visitor
-
Atmosphere: The temple setting is serene, misty, hill‐side, with nice views. Many people comment that the clean air and mountain surroundings give a calm, spiritual feel.
-
Facilities: Likely limited: small shops or stalls nearby; accommodations might be simple in the nearby market (Gothalapani / Dasharathchand). Better to carry what you need (water, snacks, etc).
-
Crowds: Very busy during festivals / Jatra days (especially with pilgrims from India). Otherwise, quieter.
-
Offerings / Rituals: Devotees offer bells, perform puja, sometimes animal sacrifice during major festival.
