Welcome to the hidden gem of Nepal – Khokana. This small traditional Newari village is located just a few kilometers from the bustling city of Kathmandu. With its ancient settlement layout, unique traditions, and fascinating history, Khokana offers visitors an opportunity to experience a side of Nepal that is often overlooked by tourists. The village is famous for its local temples and mustard-oil seed business. Visitors can witness the unique mustard oil gathering process, which uses a large wooden beam to crush the seeds. But that’s not all, Khokana also hosts a vibrant annual festival, the Khokana Jatra, where visitors can experience local food, dance, and witness traditional rituals.
It is also the first city to have used electricity generated from Pharping while the reign of Prime Priest Chandra Shamsher, and it continues to preserve its rich cultural heritage through its traditions and way of life. A visit to Khokana is a must for anyone who wants to explore the true essence of Nepal. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cultural and historical treasures of Khokana, and explore the unique experiences that await visitors to this charming village.
Some highlights of Khokana
One of the highlights of Khokana is its mustard-oil seed business. The village has been known for its mustard-oil seed production for centuries, and locals still use traditional methods to extract the oil from the seeds.
The process of making mustard oil involves using a large wooden beam to crush the seeds, which are then soaked in water and pressed to extract the oil. This process is not only fascinating to watch, but it also produces a unique oil with a distinctive pungent flavor and dark yellow hue.
The oil is not only used for cooking, but it also has medicinal properties and is used in therapeutic massage. Locals also use the oil for skin and lip care, hair loss prevention, and increasing appetite. Visitors to Khokana can witness this fascinating process firsthand and even purchase authentic mustard oil to take home as a souvenir.
The Rudrayani Temple
Khokana is also home to several temples and monuments that reflect the Newari cultural heritage. The Rudrayani Temple, located in the center of the village, is a three-story temple dedicated to the mother goddess Shikali Mai. It is a magnificent example of Newari architecture and features intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures. The temple has a rich history that dates back several centuries, and it is considered to be a significant cultural and religious site in Nepal.
Visitors to the Rudrayani Temple can witness daily rituals and ceremonies that take place there, including offerings and prayers. They can also admire the impressive artwork and architecture of the temple and learn about the cultural and historical significance of the site.
Jitapur Mandap
Jitapur Mandap is a traditional building that was used as a public gathering place in ancient times. It is located near the Rudrayani Temple and is an excellent example of traditional Newari architecture. The building features a large central courtyard and a covered porch, which was used for public meetings, weddings, and other important events. Today, Jitapur Mandap is used for cultural events and festivals and is an excellent place to learn about the village’s rich cultural heritage.
De Pukhu
De Pukhu, also known as “De Pond,” is an important cultural landmark in Khokana. According to locals, De Pukhu was built by a wealthy merchant who was advised by a fortune-teller to construct a pond in the area as a remedy for his ill health. The merchant followed the advice and built the pond, and soon after, he recovered from his illness. As a result, the pond became a holy site and has been revered ever since. The pond is believed to have been built during the Malla period in the 16th century. The pond is surrounded by a brick wall and has stone steps leading down to the water.
Sikali Jatra
Sikali Jatra is a vibrant festival celebrated annually in Khokana village, Nepal, to honor the mother goddess Sikali. The festival usually takes place in August and is one of the most important cultural events in the region. During the festival, locals gather together to perform traditional dances and rituals in honor of Sikali.
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One of the highlights of the Sikali Jatra is the animal sacrifice that takes place as an offering to the goddess. A baby goat is typically placed into a pond as part of the ceremony. Visitors can join in the procession, watch the colorful dances and rituals, and sample traditional foods and drinks that are served during the festival. The event is a great way to experience the vibrant and lively culture of Khokana village.
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