The ruins of Kakrebihar is located at the highest point within Kakrebihar protection of Surkhet Forest Conservation Branch located at Latikoili in Surkhet. In 2029, after King Birendra came to Surkhet, the ruins of Kakrebihar also seem to have gained importance.
Looking at the ruins of Kakrebihar located in Birendranagar municipality of Surkhet district, one can see an example of excellent craftsmanship. Various types of stones have been carved into the stones of different shapes. This ruin is believed to be associated with Lord Buddha due to the presence of a statue of Buddha and the name of the place behind Bihar. A plot shaped like an airplane in the middle of the Surkhet Valley was encroached upon and a large amount of forest was destroyed after the permanent settlement of the Surkhet Valley began.
An Enthralling Location Steeped in Natural Beauty
The Kakrebihar ruins are dramatically situated on a hilltop overlooking the verdant Surkhet Valley in the Karnali Province of mid-western Nepal. The site occupies a unique triangular plot of land jutting out from the surrounding forested hills.
This vantage point offers sweeping vistas across the valley below, with its patchwork of fields and scattered villages. The landscape is dominated by lush sal forests interspersed with rolling grasslands.
The ruins themselves sit amidst this idyllic setting, with the sounds of birdsong and the murmur of the wind through the trees adding an ethereal atmosphere. It’s easy to imagine the meditative peace Buddhist monks must have experienced here centuries ago.
Origins & History of Kakrebihar
The Kakrebihar site has long captured people’s curiosity, yet its origins remain shrouded in mystery. The name offers the first tantalizing clues, as “Kakrebihar” is believed to derive from “Kukkutapada-vihara” – meaning “monastery of the hen’s feet”.
Archaeologists have speculated that a Buddhist monastery or vihara was established here as early as the 8th century CE. It likely flourished for 500 years before being abandoned in the 13th century, during the medieval Malla dynasty.
Several fascinating myths surround the construction of Kakrebihar. According to local legends, it was built as a three-story palace by Salivahan or by Buddhist lamas. Some tales even link it to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata epic.
Historians propose that the Licchavi or Sinja Kings commissioned Kakrebihar as a Buddhist center. Though the exact founders remain contested, the ruins clearly indicate it was an impressive structure in its prime.
The Rise & Fall of Kakrebihar
In its heyday, Kakrebihar would have been a site of thriving religious activity, with monks living in stone dwellings, engaged in study and meditation. Excavations have revealed ceremonial artifacts like Buddha statues, offering ample clues to daily spiritual practices.
But the tide eventually turned against Buddhism in the region. As Hindu influence grew, the vihara was abandoned by the 13th century. Local folklore speculates that advancing armies may have ransacked the monastery.
Nature took its toll over time, as tropical weather eroded elaborate carvings and caused buildings to collapse. Tree roots now cling to crumbling walls, leaving only the stone foundations visible as mysterious vestiges of Kakrebihar’s past.
Architectural Grandeur & Craftsmanship
Though now in ruins, the remaining architectural details still impress with their scale and artistry. The ancient builders used stone skillfully to construct the soaring multi-level vihara.
Rows of rock-cut bricks form the base walls, some over 12 feet thick, built to withstand the elements. Intricately carved windows, pillars, and toranas (ornamental gateways) adorn the ruins, displaying the mastery of the ancient craftsmen.
A main assembly hall, courtyards, smaller shrines, and monks’ dwellings once occupied the site. The foundation plinths and layout give a glimpse into the original design – with its blend of functionality and Buddhist symbolism.
Relics & Archaeological Treasures
Ongoing archaeological digs at Kakrebihar continue to unearth fascinating relics, from Buddha statues to votive stupas. One stunning discovery was a stone plaque engraved with the sacred Buddhist mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum”.
Pottery shards, clay tablets, and circular chaitya-style stupas also point to the site’s monastic past. Four platforms may have been funerary monuments. Many artifacts echo designs seen at other Nepalese Buddhist sites like Lumbini and Kapilavastu.
Historians hope future excavations will reveal more about the vihara’s unknown centuries – filling in gaps in Nepal’s understanding of how Buddhism evolved in the region.
Spiritual Significance for Buddhists & Hindus Alike
Today, Kakrebihar holds spiritual meaning for both Buddhists and Hindus. Some Buddha statues are still worshipped by pilgrims, continuing centuries of ritual. Locals also consider it the abode of various Hindu gods like Mahadev.
Interestingly, Kakrebihar demonstrates the harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs found across Nepal. People congregate here annually to bathe sculptures during the Buddhist festival of Panchadana. They also trek to the nearby Latikoili Temple for important Hindu celebrations.
The hilltop locale is steeped in stunning natural spirituality as well. The vihara seems to float above the valley, ideal for quiet contemplation amidst inspiring Himalayan scenery.
Myths, Legends & Curses of Kakrebihar
Like all sites of antiquity, Kakrebihar comes with its own intriguing mythology. The ruins are believed cursed – said to bring bad luck to any who remove artifacts from the area. Some accounts even blame looting for deadly wildlife attacks or disease outbreaks!
Another legend claims Salivahan was an arrogant king who tried building Kakrebihar overnight to win a challenge. But he failed miserably, abandoned the unfinished vihara out of shame, and fled the valley after defacing his creation.
These myths may seem fantastical, but they highlight locals’ deep connection to Kakrebihar’s heritage. The air of mystery surrounding the ruins has also fueled creative imaginings over the centuries.
The Allure of Folklore & Oral Traditions
Kakrebihar’s legends reveal much about indigenous Tharu and Nepali folk culture. The ruins showcase how mythologies have evolved and been shared in the community over generations.
Through colorful folktales, the locals have passed on moral lessons – like warning against greed and pride which led to downfalls. Creative imaginings have also helped ingrain Kakrebihar’s aura of mystique and spirituality in popular memory.
Preserving the “people’s history” transmitted in stories remains vital, even as archaeologists uncover Kakrebihar’s physical past. These living oral traditions keep its magic alive.
Kakrebihar as a Tranquil Natural Oasis
Aside from its heritage, Kakrebihar is valued today as a peaceful nature retreat. The former vihara is enveloped within the serene Kakre Bihar Forest, part of Nepal’s protected conservation lands.
This biodiverse habitat provides a refuge for diverse flora and fauna. One may spot graceful chital deer, stocky boars, and colorful impeyan pheasants while exploring the forests around the ruins. Rare butterflies and Himalayan birds are also drawn to its vibrant wilderness.
For visitors, Kakrebihar offers a perfect destination to bask in tranquility amid lush woods – ideal for picnics, bird-watching, and quiet contemplation of nature’s grandeur. The inspiring setting will touch the hearts of culture vultures and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Mystic Ruins Beckon…
Winding down forgotten trails to view the rocky vestiges of Kakrebihar opens a unique window into Nepal’s bygone heritage. We can let our imaginations wander while exploring this archaeological treasure.
Does it still guard undiscovered relics? What secrets do its silent stones hold? Will its spiritual aura move us? Come and gaze in wonder at Nepal’s ancient past brought to life at the ruins of Kakrebihar. Let the adventure begin!
FAQs
Where is the Kakrebihar located?
The Kakrebihar is located high on a hilltop in Surkhet District in western Nepal. They overlook the Surkhet Valley and are surrounded by Kakre Bihar Forest within the boundaries of the Karnali Province.
How can you visit the Kakrebihar?
Kakrebihar is just a short drive from the city of Surkhet in western Nepal. The ruins are about 10km south of Surkhet’s city center. You can visit Kakrebihar independently or with a guide. Be sure to check with the Department of Archaeology for any access restrictions.
What architectural features still remain at the ruins?
Though now in ruins, Kankrebihar still features foundations made of intricately stacked stone bricks, carved stone pillars and windows, and the base platforms for stupas and shrines. The overall structural layout gives insight into the original grandeur of this ancient Bihar.