Spellbinding Badimalika Trek
- Sushant Lama

Badimalika trekking trail is the newly discovered trekking trails of far-western Nepal which offers one of the best natural landscapes. This trail is located in the Bajura district whose main attraction is the temple of Badimalika situated atop of the hillock which is 4,200 meters above sea level.
Badimalika temple is one of the major temples of Nepal which is dedicated to Bhagwati. Malika Chaturdashi is the major annual festival celebrated here during full moon in August when many Hindu pilgrimages from all over Nepal come to take the blessings of goddess Bhagawati. Another major fair takes place during the Janai Purnima.

It is considered one of the Shakti peethas where the left shoulder of Goddess Sati (Parvati) fell while Mahadev was carrying her rotten body after her death. It is also believed that it is the place where goddess Bhagawati resided after killing a demon named Mahisasur. Thus, it has a very interesting historical background.
Badimalika Trekking lets you experience the remote flavor of far-western Nepal. It is the trekking trails through the most attractive hills of Bajura which provides picturesque views of Mt. Api Himal, Mt. Saipal ranges, mesmerizing Khaptad valley and a chance to sightsee Khaptad National Park where lies Khaptad lake, Khaptad Baba museum and Khaptad danda where Khaptad baba lived.

This trekking trail lets you trek through the great wilderness, high hills, beautiful landscapes, forests filled with rhododendron, endangered animals, and beautiful birds along with the unique culture and tradition of the people of western Nepal. You are also able to witness sheep, buffalos, and goats grazing in the green hills.Bajura is very rich in culture and traditions. Cultures and tradition has been passed on from generation to generation and still retains its originality. You can observe various dances like Deuda, Hudkeuli, Bhuwo, and Thadi along with their folk music sung with local instruments.
Food and accommodation
There are plenty of teahouses in lower areas of the trekking route but in upper areas, it’s difficult to find one. You will be able to enjoy local cuisine in lower areas but you have to carry your food and accommodation in upper areas. Thus, camping is going to be a wonderful option if you are trekking through Badimalika trekking trails.

Best Time
Trekking is possible throughout the year but it can be affected during the winter season due to snowing.
How to get there?
Since Badimalika Temple is located in a remote location it takes around 2-3 days to reach from Martadi, headquarter of Bajura district. To reach Martadi, One can take a vehicle from Kathmandu to Dhangadi or Nepalganj, and from there travel up to Saafebagar of Achham. From Saafebagar, there is a road up tp Bramhatola Serabazar. During the rainy season, there is no alternative but to walk from Saafebagar.
You can also take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalganj followed by another flight from Nepalganj to Bajura airport in Koti. From there, it’s a day’s trek to Martadi.

Reviews
Sanjog Sigdel who recently trekked through this trail says, “Best trekking I’ve been in Nepal”
Paru Thapa describes the Badimalika temple to be very beautiful and full of natural resources.
Itinerary
Badimalika trekking is 8-10 days long. Here is the general itinerary you will see in many travel company.
Day 1: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Day 02: Travel from Kathmandu to Jadga, Dhangadi
Day 03: Trek from Jadga to Karala.
Day 04: Trek from Karala to Badimalika
Day 05: Trek from Badimalika to Natshwori
Day 06: Trek from Natshwori to Mourya.
Day 07: Trek from Mourya to Dhangadi
Day 08: Fly back to Kathmandu
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