The journey to Badimalika Trek, one of Nepal’s most revered pilgrimage sites and hidden trekking gems, begins with an adventurous route from Sanfebagar in Achham to Martadi, the headquarters of Bajura district. This first leg of the trip is not just about the destination but about witnessing the rugged beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality of Nepal’s far-western region.
My Journey to Badimalika
Visiting Badimalika Trek was a dream come true. I embarked on this adventure with a group of five friends, making the journey even more special. The trek to the temple was both challenging and rewarding, with panoramic views of lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and pristine rivers. The path was rugged, but the warmth of the local people and the serenity of the environment made every step worthwhile.
The journey itself is quite strenuous, but every challenge is met with stunning views that make it all the more rewarding. As we ascended higher and higher, the cool mountain breeze, combined with the spiritual aura of the region, made me feel truly connected with nature and divinity. Reaching the Badimalika Temple, standing at an impressive 4,200 meters above sea level, was beyond words. The temple itself is perched on a ridge surrounded by towering peaks, offering a breathtaking view of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys.
Accommodation Options in Badimalika and Nearby
The Badimalika Trek takes several days, and it’s important to plan your accommodation in advance, especially since the region is quite remote.
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In Sanfebagar and Martadi: These towns serve as the starting points for the journey to Badimalika. While there aren’t high-end hotels, you can find a few local guesthouses and lodges that offer basic facilities and a place to rest before starting your trek. These are usually family-run, and you’ll experience the local hospitality firsthand. You can expect simple rooms with beds and a shared bathroom. The food options will generally consist of local dishes such as daal bhat (lentils and rice), vegetables, and roti (flatbread).
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Along the Trek: The trek involves passing through several villages and towns, such as Sota, Tribeni Patan, and other smaller settlements. These villages have basic tea houses or local homestays that offer a place to stay. Most accommodations are basic but clean, providing a bed and sometimes a warm meal. The hospitality of the locals is exceptional, and they often offer trekkers a chance to experience local customs and food.
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At Badimalika: Once you reach the temple, there are a few basic guesthouses where trekkers can stay. These are very simple and meant for short stays, usually providing basic food and shelter. Some trekkers also prefer to camp near the temple to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the breathtaking views.
How to Reach Badimalika Trek: Bus or Trek
Reaching Badimalika Trek is not as simple as hopping on a bus to a well-known destination; it requires a combination of public transport and trekking. Here’s how you can get there:
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By Bus:
- From Kathmandu to Sanfebagar: The first leg of the journey starts with a long bus ride from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, to Sanfebagar in Achham district. This is a roughly 16-18 hour journey by local bus or tourist bus. The road is not in the best condition, but it’s an essential route to reach the start of the trek. Buses typically depart from the New Bus Park in Kathmandu.
- From Sanfebagar to Martadi: Once you reach Sanfebagar, you’ll need to take another bus or jeep ride to reach Martadi, the headquarters of Bajura district. This ride takes about 2-4 hours depending on road conditions.
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Trekking:
- After Martadi, the real trek begins. The Sanfebagar to Martadi route is only the start of your adventure. The trek itself is physically demanding but incredibly scenic. You will pass through Sota, Tribeni Patan, and finally reach the Badimalika Temple.
- Local Transportation: For trekkers who are not accustomed to long hikes, local jeeps may be available to take you from Martadi to the nearest village or starting point for the trek, especially during the monsoon season when the trail can be difficult to navigate on foot.
Multimedia
To truly capture the essence of Badimalika, I have included various multimedia elements to give you a richer experience of my journey. These include:
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Photos of the Trek: I’ve captured mesmerizing photos along the trek that showcase the natural beauty, the local way of life, and the stunning landscapes I encountered on the way to Badimalika. From the bustling town of Sanfebagar to the serene temples near Badimalika, these photos offer a visual diary of the entire experience.
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Videos of the Temple Rituals: The rituals at Badimalika Temple hold immense spiritual importance. These videos offer you a glimpse into the rituals and ceremonies performed by the locals and pilgrims. Watching these practices allows you to understand the deep cultural and spiritual significance of the site.
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A Time-Lapse of the Sunrise: A highlight of the journey was witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise from Bauliya Hill. I captured the breathtaking beauty of the sun rising over the Himalayas in a time-lapse video that truly shows the magic of Badimalika at dawn. It’s a moment of calm and serenity that every trekker should experience.
Related Vlogs: A Complete Journey through Badimalika
I’ve also documented my entire journey in a series of vlogs, each of which captures different stages of the trek and the rich culture of the region. You can watch the vlogs below:
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BADIMALIKA Vlog – Part 1 | Sanfebagar to Martadi, Bajura: This vlog kicks off the adventure as I journey from Sanfebagar to Martadi, a crucial starting point for the trek to Badimalika. It gives a glimpse of the landscapes, local culture, and the initial steps of the long trek ahead. You’ll see the bustling market towns, the terraced fields, and the friendly faces of the locals. This vlog sets the tone for the adventure that lies ahead. Watch it here.
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BADIMALIKA Vlog – Part 2 | Martadi to Sota, Bajura | Full Hiking: In this vlog, I cover the hiking journey from Martadi (a town in Bajura District) to Sota, a village along the trek. The vlog shows viewers a detailed look at the first part of the adventure, from the rugged trails to the peaceful riverside spots. As the trek begins to get more challenging, you’ll see how the natural beauty of the region unfolds. The vlog helps viewers understand the physical demands of the trek and the stunning landscapes along the way, such as lush forests, streams, and mountain views. Watch the full vlog here.
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BADIMALIKA Vlog – Part 3 | SOTA TO TRIBENI PATAN, Bajura: This video takes viewers from Sota to Tribeni Patan, an important location along the trek. Tribeni Patan is the confluence of three rivers, and it is not only a scenic spot but also holds deep spiritual significance for locals. The vlog highlights the beautiful confluence and the serene atmosphere of this sacred place. Watch it here.
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BADIMALIKA Vlog – Part 4 | TRIBENI PATAN to BADIMALIKA TEMPLE, Bajura: The final vlog in the series showcases the last leg of the journey, from Tribeni Patan to the Badimalika Temple. As I reach this sacred destination, the sense of achievement and spirituality fills the air. The video captures the rituals performed at the temple and the panoramic views from this high-altitude location. It’s an emotional and spiritual moment in the journey, and the vlog offers a first-hand look at the temple, the surrounding scenery, and the people who visit this revered site. Watch the full vlog here.
Check the Full Vlog on Raaz Theeng Official Channel
Why Visit Badimalika?
Badimalika Trek is more than just a trekking destination; it is a place where nature, spirituality, and culture come together. It is one of the most serene and untouched regions in Nepal, making it ideal for anyone seeking peace, adventure, and connection to something greater. The sense of accomplishment you feel when you finally reach the Badimalika Temple is unparalleled. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, an avid trekker, or someone looking to immerse themselves in a new culture, Badimalika Trek offers something for everyone.
Conclusion
Badimalika Trek is truly a hidden gem in Nepal that combines adventure with spirituality, and its untouched beauty is something every trekker should experience at least once in their lifetime. The combination of nature, culture, and the opportunity to disconnect from the fast-paced world makes Badimalika a destination that leaves an imprint on your heart. Whether you’re going for the trek, the spirituality, or simply to be surrounded by one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, Badimalika will not disappoint.
These multimedia elements and insights into the journey allow you to truly immerse yourself in the experience, whether you’re planning your own trek to Badimalika Trek or just enjoying the adventure through these videos. Let me know if you’re planning to visit or if you’ve been to Badimalika Trek before — I’d love to hear your thoughts!
