Heritage Trip to Malkana Temple Kallar Kahar Chakwal

Deep in the hills near Kallar Kahar stands Malkana Temple, a little-known religious heritage site surrounded by seasonal streams and the rugged landscape of the Salt Range. Its remote setting and unusual architecture make it one of the more intriguing sites featured in our guide to historic Hindu temples of Pakistan.

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Table of Contents

Location map to Malkana Hindu Temple Kallar Kahar

Malkana Temple Kallar Kahar history

The precise age and religious origins of Malkana Temple remain uncertain. Some architectural features appear different from those of better-known Hindu temples in the region, leading to local speculation about earlier Buddhist influence. This interpretation requires further archaeological research.

It is known to be called Shiv Ganga Temple Malkana.

Things to see at Malkana Temple Kallar Kahar

Malkana Temple is perched on top of an island like a mountain on a 300-meter square archipelago, surrounded on three sides by a curving rivulet.

This stream comes alive whenever it rains.

Malkana temple in its time was protected by the grand Malot temple that lies on the hill overlooking this site.

Both these buildings are now in ruin.

From the two dozen temples I have seen around Pakistan, this is the only one that does not look Hindu at all.

The thick walls, wall carvings, and spire resemble a Buddhist temple.

There is an

Ablution pond,
An aqueduct,
Meditation caves,
Ashram,
pilgrim lodge,
Several trees of religious significance
- one huge Bayan tree (Bargat),
- Peepal Tree,
- few Date palm trees
- long lost Pomegranate and
- Black
- grape
- trees in the premises.

The beauty of Malkana Temple Kallar Kahar

The best thing about the site is the serenity of this religious site, which you can feel even now.

A quick walk on the cliff behind the temple and you can get a bird’s eye view of the valley floor and thickly forested Salt Range last ridge.

I could hear the sound and see Hindu pilgrims thronging these sacred temple grounds, for some hope of clemency from their God for the unforgiving life they live.

None of the wall paintings and frescos are intact now and is a shame.

Unlike Makhaddi Temple in Attock, not a single Hindu devotee stayed back after the 1947 riots to oversee their carefully constructed masterpiece.

History of Malkana Rajput Family of Punjab

Malkana family still resides in Pakistan, as Muslim converts and there are Malkana Hindus all around the world and even in the Haryana State of Punjab, at a place called Khuiyan.

Even the grand carving of, what I believe, is Hanuman has crumbled to the ground.

There was evidence of illegal excavation by gold diggers in an attempt to strike a fortune.

Distance of Malkana Temple Kallar Kahar from Islamabad

Malkana Hindu Temple Kallar Kahar is a 155 Km, and 2.5 hours’ drive from Islamabad on the expressway.

The best route toward Malkana Temple

To get to Malkana Temple Kallar Kahar, you must exit from Kallar Kahar interchange and drive toward Choa Saidan Shah road, till you see the sign of Malkana temple a few kilometers in.

Turn Right and drive on the Khandoyah – Choe Mallot road till you see a Y junction with signs pointing toward Malkana Temple and Malot Temple.

This Y junction is about 17 km from the Motorway Interchange turn on the Malkana – Dalwal – Bahshahpur road that goes back to Choa Saidan Shah Road.

All types of cars and motorcycles can reach Malkana Temple.

Google Maps show the road Badshahpur – Dalwal – Malkana, which is suitable for motorcycles, not cars.

I would recommend the Khandoya – Choe Mallot as it is in better condition and wider.

Ancient Wells of Waulah

I took Badshahpur – Dalwal road and got lucky to see the ancient wells of Waulah.

This place is remote and cut off from settled areas, so be carefully venturing there.

Then, I had to use 4×4 to get out of mud puddles several feet deep.

When to visit Malkana Temple?

The best time to go to Malkana Temple is during the summers as it gets windy and cold during winters.

If you are not a history and heritage buff, then try Swaik Lake at Kandoa village, instead.

Safety and preparation

Malkana Temple is located in a remote area where road conditions may deteriorate after rain. Travel during daylight, preferably with a reliable local guide, carry drinking water and avoid attempting isolated dirt tracks in unsuitable vehicles.

Where to eat at Malkana Temple site?

I couldn’t find anything to eat at the temple site, but while driving back there are plenty of driver hotels where you can get excellent Dudh Patti cha and tandoori roti with daal.

On the way back I wondered why haven’t the real estate mafia still discovered this site, which has it all, views, water, clean air, and greenery

Conclusion

Malkana Temple is not a polished tourist attraction, but its isolation, architecture and natural setting make it an important part of the Salt Range’s neglected heritage. Verified directions, responsible archaeological study and basic visitor information could help protect the site without damaging its peaceful character.

Discover more heritage and historic places in Pakistan or plan another journey through our Explore Pakistan guide.