Namaste! Welcome to Satakshi Dham Jhapa.
Located in the eastern part of Nepal, Satakshi Dham is renowned as a significant pilgrimage site in Jhapa for followers of Sanatan Dharma. It is both a spiritual sanctuary and a natural retreat, spread across approximately 76.5 square kilometers at an elevation of 280 to 300 meters above sea level.
The central temple of Digambeshwar Mahadev lies in Ward No. 11 of Satakshi Dham Municipality. To its east is Kanakai Municipality, and to the north lies Mahamai Municipality of Ilam District. The southern border is protected under the Ratuwamai Reforestation Project, while the natural forests to the east and west are managed by community forest user groups. To the north, the dense forests of Ilam frame the sacred region.
The Satakshi Dham complex includes temples dedicated to Satakshi Devi, Digambeshwar Mahadev, Hanuman, Gayatri, and others. It also houses the revered Jasmuni Ashram.
Legends and Mythology related to Satakshi Dham Jhapa
A verse from the Durga Saptashati (Chapter 11, Verse 47) prophesies:
“Tatah śatena netrāṇām nirīkṣiṣyāmi yan munīn,
kīrtayiṣyanti manujāḥ śatākṣīm iti māṁ tataḥ.”
(11.47) Since I shall behold the sages with a hundred eyes, humankind will glorify me as Śatākṣī.
The name Satakshi meaning “hundred-eyed” is derived from this divine declaration, signifying the goddess’s compassionate gaze over sages and humankind.
It is also believed that during their exile, the Pandavas hid their weapons here before entering the court of King Virat in disguise. Ancient relics and stone carvings found on the northern hills of the Satakshi Dham area further reinforce its connection to the epic era.
Situated about 5 km north of Jhiljhile along the East-West Highway, nestled at the base of the Chure hills, Satakshi Dham is not only a place of devotion but also a popular picnic and recreational destination. Surrounded by lush mango orchards and diverse plant life, the area exudes natural beauty.
A half-hour walk from the temple leads to Sahasradhara – a breathtaking waterfall. According to legend, Yudhishthir worshipped Satakshi Devi here and received her divine vision. The name “Satakshi Dham” is said to be a later adaptation of this original connection.
North of Sahasradhara lies a spot called Pathibhara, marked by a sacred trident (trishul). Bathing in the Sahasradhara stream is believed to absolve one of sins.
Spiritual Environment and Natural Riches of Satakshi Dham Jhapa
The surrounding forest is home to rare herbs and has long been a haven for sages and ascetics. North of the dham, along the Mai River, there’s a steep cliff with a cave said to contain a naturally formed Shiva Lingam. This cave is believed to be Bhim’s hidden meditation spot during the Pandavas’ incognito exile.
Another local belief recounts how Goddess Parvati once fled and hid in Satakshi Dham when the Himalaya (her father) tried to marry her off to Lord Vishnu. When a great drought struck Earth, the goddess shed tears from her hundred eyes, giving rise to streams – thus the name Satakshi Dham.
Spiritual Backdrop and Mystical Landscape on Satakshi Dham Jhapa
The Dham is surrounded by sacred symbols, including natural stone formations, udder-shaped wall carvings, and a spot in the Satakshi River where sulfur-rich healing water emerges from a 20 square meter area. Devotees believe that offering prayers here fulfills their wishes. Nearby water is naturally warm and salty, and often used for medicinal purposes.
Elders recall that as early as 2015 B.S., people would come here to scatter satabij (ritual seeds) for ancestral peace. Lighting oil lamps and staying awake all night during the Chaturdashi is a long-standing tradition. Sadhus and yogis have long meditated here in peace, and memorial shrines (samadhi shilaks) commemorate Digambar sadhus who attained spiritual liberation at the site.
Even the official Hindu calendar (Surya Panchang) records an annual fair during Balachaturdashi at Satakshi Dham. Another significant feature is the Dhuni (sacred fire pit) of a Naga Baba, which has remained continuously lit since its origin.
Annual fairs take place during Mangsir’s Chaturdashi (three days) and Maghe Sankranti (one day). The site also sees large gatherings every Tuesday and Saturday. Additionally, groups frequently visit for picnics and leisure.
Modern Developments and Conservation of Satakshi Dham Jhapa
Following the grand Mahayagya of 2081 B.S., a movement began to establish the world’s largest Rudraksha Shiva Lingam at Satakshi Dham, honoring tradition while introducing a new spiritual landmark. Now completed, it is considered one of the dham’s priceless spiritual treasures.
The serene and vibrant atmosphere is ideal for experiencing inner peace and transcendence. Ancient scriptures recount how Lord Shiva meditated here in the Dwapar Yuga and the Pandavas found refuge in the Treta Yuga. The site remains a place of both natural beauty and divine energy.
To preserve the values of Vedic Sanatan Dharma, the Shri Golok Govardhan Gaushala operates a Gurukul here, officially recognized by the Government of Nepal. The school offers education up to grade 5 in Vedic knowledge, Sanskrit, Chandi, Rudri, Vedas, grammar, Srimad Bhagavatam, and music. The Gaushala is also the largest in Nepal, sheltering over 700 cows.
Daily yoga, meditation, and transcendental practices are held, and medicinal cow products are distributed from distilled cow dung of indigenous calves. To aid the sick and disabled, Satakshi Dham’s management committee has arranged for this medicinal water to flow to public bathing spouts, believed to cure skin diseases and bring spiritual purification.
The sacred waters flowing from Satashi Dhara are sourced from an amalgamation of Shiv Jharna, Draupadi Talau, Sahasradhara, Bire Nun Pani, Satashi and Athashi Ganga.
Religious and Tourist Attractions within Satakshi Dham Jhapa
Before the River:
- Entrance Gate
- Gaushala (Cow Sanctuary)
- Temenlum Kirat Manghim
- Mai Temple
- 12 Jyotirlinga Temples
- Gurukul
- 1.25 Lakh Shaligram Stones
- Ram-Janaki Temple
- Hanuman Temple
- Sakambari Temple
- Saint Residences
- Yoga Sanatan Site
- Matsyagandha Temple (of the Majhi Community)
Across the River:
- Buddha Park
- Buddhist Stupa
- Saint Samadhi
- Baraha Temple
- Satakshi Mata Temple
- Digambareshwar Temple
- Ganesh Temple
- Dhuni (Sacred Fire Pit)
- Satakshi Dhara
- Shiva-Parvati Resting Spot
- Ancient Stone Artifacts
- Bire Nun Pani (Black Salt Water Spring)
- Sahasradhara Waterfall
- Nag Cave
- Draupadi Pond
- Shiva Waterfall
- Akash Ganga (Celestial Stream)
- Pandav Garden
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dhirendra shah
a week agoPrasan Rai
3 weeks agoSatakshi Dham Waterfall and Nag Gupha are beautiful natural and religious sites located in Jhapa District Shivasatakshi Municipality. About 2 kilometers north of Dhudhe Bus Stop. The waterfall is easily accessible by a short walk or local vehicle ride. Surrounded by greenery and natural beauty, it’s a peaceful spot perfect for relaxation, photography, and spiritual exploration. The stunning waterfall flows gracefully amidst lush greenery, creating a peaceful and refreshing environment. Nearby, the mysterious Nag Gupha (serpent cave) holds religious and cultural significance. Together, they offer visitors a perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and adventure.
Anand modi
a month agoMithlesh Singh
a month agoBeautiful place
Kapil raj niraula
a month agoGreat outdoor spacing, relaxing and mind fresh.. Jai sambhoo..