Introduction
Guhyeshwari Shakthi Peeth is the place where Devi Sati’s knees fell. Here Devi is worshipped as Mahamaya or Mahashira and Lord Shiva as Kapali.Guhyeshwari in derived from the Sanskrit word Guhya (secret) and Ishwari (goddess). The word “Guhyarupini” (The form of God is beyond human perception and it is a secret) is mentioned in Lalitha Sahasranama. It is also believed that Guhyeshwari temple is the
Shakthi Peeth of the Pashupathinath temple of Lord Shiva.
Location
Guhyeshwari Shakthi Peeth is located east of Pashupathinath temple (1 km) in Nepal. Guhyeshwari Shakthi Peeth is located on the south west bank of the River Bagmati at Devpatan.
Temple History
The temple was constructed during the reign of King Shanker Dev of the Lichhavi period with the help of Narasingha Thakur, a Tantric. The temple was later renovated by King Pratap Malla in 1654 AD with the advice of Lambakarna Bhatta, a noted Tantric. Tantric rites are performed at the temple. The temple architecture is built in Bhutanese Pagoda style. Several musical instruments to be used during prayer were presented by King Rana Bhadur. The idols in the temple are made of gold and silver.
Rituals
People offer eggs and wine to the goddess.
Festivals and Fairs
Navaratri is celebrated with great fervour. The king of Nepal takes a dip at Bagmati river and worships the Devi at Guhyeshwari temple.
There is a belief that if people get married at this temple, the couple will be soul mates for seven lives.
Another belief is that women who pray for their husband’s health are blessed of the same here.
Worship at this temple is said to help overcome enemies.
Guhyeshwari Fair is held in November.
