Khottar Devi Cave awaits conservation, recognition

By Our Correspondent, Bhardaha (Saptari), July 27:  Situated at Baksaha (formerly Theliya) of Kanchanrup Municipality-11 in Saptari, around two kilometres north of Kanchanpur market centre in a gorge of the Chure Hills, Khottar Devi Cave continues to await proper conservation, promotion and recognition.

Despite its immense historical, natural and religious significance, local residents say the cave has remained neglected for years, with little effort made to preserve or promote it.

According to local priest Uttam Acharya, there is a long-held belief that Lord Shiva travelled through the inner passage of this cave, crossing the Sundari River and the Chhamling Koshi in Udayapur before reaching Halesi. 

He said Khottar Devi Cave is traditionally associated with a legend from the Satya Yuga. According to Hindu scriptures, after the demon Bhasmasura received a boon from Lord Shiva that anyone whose head he touched would instantly be reduced to ashes, Bhasmasura attempted to use the very boon against Shiva himself. To save his life, Lord Shiva is believed to have fled and hidden inside Khottar Devi Cave.

Supernatural features and everlasting pond

Inside the cave stands a naturally formed Shiva Lingam, where regular worship is performed. One of the cave's most remarkable attractions is the Ajambari Pokhari (everlasting pond), located at the foothills of the Chure range. Even during severe droughts in the Chure Hills, the pond has never been known to dry up. Devotees believe that bathing in its sacred waters washes away sins and fulfils heartfelt wishes.

Within the cave complex is a shrine dedicated to Bhimsen, which is associated with a distinctive local tradition. Devotees offer aubergines or metal cat figurines as part of their vows. 

It is widely believed that those suffering from ringworm, eczema or other chronic skin ailments can be cured after making a vow and offering prayers at the shrine. There is also a strong local belief that childless couples who worship here with sincere devotion are blessed with children.

Every year on 1 Baisakh, the first day of the Nepali New Year, the historic Khottar Devi Fair is held at the site. On this occasion, thousands of pilgrims and visitors arrive from across Nepal, including the districts of Saptari, Siraha, Sunsari and Morang, as well as from neighbouring Indian states such as Bihar and West Bengal.

Although the Khottar Devi Cave Conservation Committee and Kanchanrup Municipality have made some efforts to develop the area, the site has yet to receive meaningful promotion at the national level. With improved road access, drinking water facilities, accommodation and proper security arrangements, the cave has the potential to become one of the leading religious tourism destinations in Madhes Province.

Given its historical, cultural and religious importance, there is an urgent need for the local government, the provincial government and the Department of Archaeology to prioritise the conservation, promotion and sustainable development of this important heritage site.