Overview
Khokana is a historic Newari village in Lalitpur, about 8–10 km south of Kathmandu. It is known for its preserved medieval lifestyle, traditional mustard oil production, and rich Newar culture. The village is often described as a “living museum” of ancient traditions and has even been proposed for UNESCO heritage status.
The Sikali (Sikali Temple and Jatra) is one of the most important religious and cultural elements of Khokana. The temple, dedicated to the goddess Rudrayani (Sikali Mai), is believed to be over 800 years old and lies slightly outside the main village in open fields. Sikali Jatra is a major festival celebrated twice a year, especially around Dashain and Gai Jatra. It involves masked dances, ritual processions, and traditional performances by local Newar communities. The festival holds deep spiritual meaning, and locals believe it must be continued every year without interruption.
Key Fact about Sikali Temple
How to Reach Sikali Temple?
There are multiple routes to reach Sikali Temple, and it really depends on where you’re coming from. The following direction is based on my personal experience:
- First, reach Bhaisepati.
- Then, head onto the Khokana road.
- You’ll see a board that says “Sikali Temple”, which indicates going to the right.
- You’ll come across another board that says “Sikali Mandir Jane Bato“, which translates to “Way to Sikali Temple“.
- Follow the unpaved road and you’ll reach the parking area within the next five minutes.
Talking about the road condition, 90% is paved while the final section remains unpaved but still smooth. For those who are planning to come here by a public vehicle, find a local micro or a cab that goes to Khokana.
Sikali Jatra And things to know about it
Khokana does not celebrate Dashain in the usual way. Instead, locals observe a unique nine-day Sikali Jatra from Ghatasthapana through Kojagrat Purnima (full moon). The Jatra is five days long and is dedicated to the goddess Sikali (also called Ajima). The goddess Sikali is one of the sisters of goddess in Dakshinkali. The Sikali’s temple is located in Khokana. In Khokana there are three major communities namely Tagu, Salagu and Jagu. On the day of Jatra, four virgin boys each from Tagu and Salagu is selected to worship Sikali. The locals wears masks to represent 14 Hindu gods and goddesses. Masked dances is performed following tantric rituals. The dancers wears colourful attires. A wooden chariot of goddess Rudrayani is carried on the streets and finally set at the Sikali temple. The procession is led by a Newar priest wearing white robe.
