Exploring the Sacred Kalka Devi Cave Temple in Pakistan

Panoramic View of Kalka Hills

Published on May 10, 2025

The Historical and Spiritual Significance of Kalka Devi Cave

Ancient Cave Entrance of Kalka Devi Temple

Nestled in the rugged Kalka hills, approximately one mile south of the ancient city of Alore (now Rohri) in Sindh, Pakistan, lies the revered Kalka Devi Cave Temple. This natural cave, steeped in history and spirituality, is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees and a testament to Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage. Known as the Asthan of Kalka Devi, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, embodying power and divine strength in the Shasthi language, where "Kalka" translates to "power."

The temple is believed to have been a sacred site for centuries, with its origins tied to a devout woman named Kalka who resided in these caves. Her spiritual practices sanctified the area, leading to the hills being named Kalka Hills during the Roe Dynasty. The site became a revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, with legends suggesting her appearance during the Hinglaj Yatra, blessing the cave with divine energy.

Rituals and Devotee Practices

The Kalka Devi Cave Temple is a vibrant center of devotion, particularly on the first Monday of every month, when Hindu devotees gather to pay homage to Kalka Devi. This ritual involves offerings, prayers, and the lighting of oil lamps, creating a serene atmosphere. During the Navratri festival, celebrated in spring and autumn, the temple hosts a large fair, attracting thousands who sing hymns in praise of Goddess Durga, an incarnation of Kali.

Architectural and Cultural Charm

The temple’s natural cave setting, with a low ceiling and ash-grey walls, adds to its mystical aura. The main entrance, five to six feet high, leads to a sacred space adorned with sculptures of Kalka Devi. The priest presides over rituals beside the deity’s idol, often depicted with a dagger and a severed head. The temple’s proximity to historical sites like the Bin Qasim Mosque and Sadh Belo Temple makes it a key part of Sindh’s heritage.

Tips for Visiting Kalka Devi Cave Temple

• Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit during Navratri or the first Monday of any month.
• How to Reach: The temple is 23 kilometers from Sukkur, accessible by local transport or private vehicles.
• What to Expect: Be prepared for a low-roofed cave and carry offerings like flowers or incense.
• Respect Local Customs: Both Hindu and Muslim devotees visit, so maintain respect for all practices.

Cultural Harmony: Hindu and Muslim Visitors

Mystical Cave Interior with Offerings

Goddess Kali Idol in Sacred Darkness

Devotees Lighting Lamps During Navratri

Priest Performing Rituals at Dawn

Vibrant Navratri Fair at the Temple

Sunrise Over Kalka Devi Temple

Conclusion

The Kalka Devi Cave Temple is a symbol of Pakistan’s cultural and spiritual diversity. Its historical roots, natural beauty, and vibrant rituals make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travelers. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a history enthusiast, this sacred site offers a profound journey into Sindh’s heritage.

Tags: Kalka Devi Temple, Hindu Pilgrimage, Sindh Heritage, Goddess Kali, Pakistan Temples, Spiritual Travel

Hashtags: #KalkaDeviCave, #HinduTemplesPakistan, #SindhTravel, #GoddessKaliWorship, #SpiritualPakistan

References

• Attribute quotes to “Pujari of Kalka Devi Cave Temple, Rohri”.
• Audio clip of Pujari explaining the history of Kalka Devi Cave Temple in Sindhi
• Kalka Devi Cave Temple - Rohri
• Kalka Cave Temple - Wikipedia
• Kalka Devi Mandir, Sukkur
• Kalka Devi Temple: The Legacy of Hindu Temples in Pakistan
• Temple reflections — Asthan of Kalka Devi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh. All rights reserved.

Doctors of Rohri Before Partition: A Historical Glimpse

Before the partition of India, the city of Rohri was home to several notable doctors who served the community with dedication, often providing free medical care. These physicians, with their clinics and charitable hospitals, left a lasting impact on the region. Below is a look at some of these remarkable individuals and their contributions.

Dr. Kewalram Bansiram Israni

Dr. Kewalram Bansiram Israni ran an eye hospital near Satgharo, where he attended to eye patients daily and performed eye surgeries. His commitment to treating eye ailments made him a trusted figure in the community.

Dr. Kishinchand Bhatia

Dr. Kishinchand Bhatia served as a doctor at the Rohri Municipality Hospital. His work within the municipal framework ensured that many residents had access to essential healthcare services.

Dr. Rochaldas

Dr. Rochaldas established a charitable hospital in the Sajansingh Street of the Brahmanki Mohalla, near Chabotra. This hospital was later managed by Dr. Ghaneshyamdas. Dr. Rochaldas spent much of his career in government service, living in places like Aden and elsewhere. He also resided in Hyderabad for a significant period due to his association with Qutub Shah. Eventually, he left his government job and started a private hospital. Having trained under Dr. Holland in Shikarpur, where he learned eye treatment techniques for free, Dr. Rochaldas began offering free eye surgeries in Rohri. He treated thousands of patients using both allopathic and homeopathic medicines, healing countless individuals at no cost. A follower of Sufi traditions, he also organized vibrant Sufi gatherings, blending his medical service with spiritual devotion.

Dr. Bhagwandas

Dr. Bhagwandas operated an eye hospital at the Sabzi Market Chowk. Specializing in eye surgeries, he catered to the needs of patients with vision problems, further enhancing Rohri’s reputation for eye care.

Dr. Ramoomal

Dr. Ramoomal worked at the Chandiram Hospital, known for treating pregnant women and infants. His expertise supported maternal and child healthcare in the region.
Lady Doctor at Chandiram Women’s Hospital
A female doctor served at the Chandiram Women’s Hospital, providing essential care to women in a dedicated medical facility.

Dr. Harichandrai Keswani

Details about Dr. Harichandrai Keswani are limited, but his presence in Rohri’s medical community underscores the diversity of healthcare providers at the time.

Dr. Hiranand Keswani

Dr. Hiranand Keswani operated a hospital in a two-story building along Bandar Road near the river. Beyond medicine, he was actively involved in politics and was elected president of the Rohri Municipality multiple times. After 1965, he migrated to India, marking the end of his contributions to Rohri.

Historical Doctors of Sindh

Broadens the scope to include Rohri within the larger Sindh region, appealing to those researching healthcare pioneers in pre-partition Pakistan.

Sourse : Syed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi Rohri

Kalika Devi Temple: A Sacred Heritage in Rohri, Sukkur

Introduction

The Kalika Devi Temple, also known as Kalka Devi Mandir, is one of the holiest Hindu temples in Pakistan. Situated inside a natural cave in the Kalka hills near Rohri, Sukkur, this temple is a significant religious site for devotees.

Kalka Devi's Mandir, also known as Kalka Devi Temple, is nestled inside a mountain cave where the goddess is believed to have appeared during her Hinglaj yatra. This sacred site is located about one mile south of the capital city of Arror/Arore. In the Shasthi language, "Kalka" means power. Legend has it that a devout woman named Kalka once lived in these caves, and the hills were named Kalka Hills during the Roe Dynasty. The majority of Hindu devotees pay homage to Kalka Devi on the first Monday night of every month.

Historical Significance

According to legend, Goddess Kalka Devi appeared in this cave during her journey to the Hinglaj Mata temple. The name "Kalka" means power in the Shashthi language, and the temple is revered for its spiritual significance.

Temple Features

The temple is located about one mile south of the capital city of Arror/Arore. It features a cave entrance that is only about five to six feet high, creating a mystical atmosphere with the smell and smoke of incense2. The temple has several rooms for prayer and accommodation, and it is believed to have two tunnels connecting it to the Hinglaj Mata temple in Balochistan.

Community and Worship

The majority of Hindu devotees visit the temple on the night of the first Monday of every month. Interestingly, about 60% of the visitors are Muslims or people of other religions, highlighting the temple's inclusive nature2. The priest, who sits on a stone platform next to the idol of Kalka Devi, often engages with visitors over a cup of tea.

Preservation Efforts

The temple and its surrounding hills are under threat from construction companies that crush stones for profit. Despite these challenges, the temple remains a place of love and peace, attracting thousands of visitors during Hindu festivals.

Conclusion

The Kalika Devi Temple in Rohri, Sukkur, is a testament to Pakistan's rich cultural and religious heritage. Its historical significance, unique features, and inclusive community make it a vital part of the region's spiritual landscape.

The entrance to the Kalka Devi Temple, nestled in a natural cave in the Kalka hills near Rohri, Sukkur, a significant religious site for Hindu devotees.

Kalka Devi Temple, Rohri Sukkur, Hindu temple Pakistan, Kalka hills cave temple, and religious sites Sindh

Sourse: Kalka Cave Temple - Wikipedia

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