Devalsari Temple, located in the calm Garhwal Region of Uttarakhand, is an ideal place for anyone looking for a peaceful spiritual break in the middle of nature. This hidden temple is close to the small village of Devalsari, a quiet spot loved by travelers who enjoy peace, spirituality, and natural beauty.
If you love history, have a passion for traveling, or wish to explore Uttarakhand’s less crowded places, Devalsari Temple is a wonderful choice. In this guide, we will share its history, the best way to reach it, temple timings, and useful tips to help you plan your visit.
Devalsari Temple History
Koneshwar Temple, originally known as Devalsari Temple, is believed to have been built in the 16th century by the Katyuri kings, who were known for their deep devotion to Lord Shiva.
According to local legends, the story of Devalsari Temple begins with a sadhu (holy man) who once visited the village, where people were growing jowari (sorghum) in their fields. The sadhu asked for a small patch of land to meditate, but the villagers refused, as the land was important for their crops.
Upset by this, the sadhu is said to have cursed the fields. By the next morning, the farmland had changed into a thick forest of deodar trees, and in the middle stood a Shivling, the sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. Later, Lord Shiva appeared in the dreams of the villagers and asked them to build a temple at that very place. Over time, this spot became known as the Devalsari Temple.
How to Reach Devalsari Temple
Reaching the Devalsari Temple is an adventure in itself. Located about 41 kilometers away, it is close enough to Mussoorie for a perfect day trip if you’re staying in the popular hill station. Below is a detailed guide on the different routes and transportation options to help you plan your visit effectively.
1. By Road
Traveling by road is the most common way to reach Devalsari Temple. There are two main road routes:
From Dehradun (70–85 km):
- Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Suwakholi → Thatyur → Devalsari.
- Travel Time: Around 3 to 4 hours.
- This route passes through scenic hills, pine forests, and small villages, making the drive very pleasant.
From Mussoorie (45–55 km):
- Route: Mussoorie → Suwakholi → Thatyur → Devalsari.
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours.
- This is the shorter and more direct option if you are already in Mussoorie.
Tip: Roads are narrow and winding in the hill areas. Hiring an experienced local driver is highly recommended.
2. By Train
The nearest railway station to Devalsari Temple is Dehradun Railway Station, which is about 70–85 km away. Dehradun is well connected by train with Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other nearby towns, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.
After reaching the station, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus towards Mussoorie, and then continue the journey via Suwakholi and Thatyur to reach Devalsari. The drive from Dehradun to the temple area usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, offering beautiful views of the hills along the way.
Tip: For budget-friendly travel, you can catch a shared jeep or local bus to Thatyur, but private taxis are faster and more convenient.
3. By Air
The nearest airport to Devalsari Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which has good flight connections with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. After landing, you can take a taxi or cab directly to Thatyur village, the main road-head for Devalsari.
The distance between the airport and Thatyur is around 80 to 95 kilometers, and the drive usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From Thatyur, the journey continues by road closer to Devalsari, and the final stretch requires a short walk through the forest to reach the temple.
Tip: Roads are narrow and winding in the hill areas. Hiring an experienced local driver is highly recommended.
Walk Through the Forest
- Vehicles can take you only up to a certain point near Devalsari village.
- From there, you need to walk about 1 km on a simple forest trail.
- The path is not difficult and takes 15–20 minutes, but it is surrounded by thick deodar and oak trees, making the walk peaceful and refreshing.
- This short trek is part of the temple experience, giving visitors a chance to enjoy nature before reaching the sacred site.
Devalsari Temple Timing
Devalsari Temple is open all year, but the ideal time to visit is between March and June or between September and November. It’s best to avoid the monsoon season since the trekking path can get slippery due to the rain.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
During festivals such as Maha Shivratri, Koneshwar Temple (Devalsari Temple) can become quite crowded, and the visiting hours may be extended to accommodate the large number of pilgrims. Local priests and devotees often perform special prayers during sunrise and sunset, making these times particularly spiritual.
Things to Do Around Devalsari Temple
1. Offer Prayers
The main activity at Devalsari Temple is offering prayers to Lord Shiva. The peaceful atmosphere of the temple makes it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
2. Holy Dip
Near the temple, there is a Holy Kund (pond) where devotees can take a purifying dip. It is widely believed that the water in this kund has cleansing properties, helping to wash away impurities and bringing a sense of renewal to those who bathe in it.
3. Trekking
Devalsari also serves as a base camp for the Nag Tibba trek, which attracts both beginners and experienced trekkers. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Doon Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers.
4. Bird Watching and Butterfly Spotting
The region around Devalsari is a paradise for bird watchers and butterfly enthusiasts. With over 70 species of butterflies and more than 60 species of birds, including the vibrant Himalayan Monal and the graceful White-capped Water Redstart, nature lovers will find plenty to explore.
5. Explore Nearby Villages
The nearby villages of Thatyur and Devalsari provide visitors with an authentic experience of local Garhwali culture. Travelers can stay in family-run accommodations, savor home-cooked Garhwali dishes, and participate in various cultural activities. This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with the local community and gain insight into their traditions and way of life.
Where to Stay near Devalsari Temple
Devalsari is a remote location with limited accommodation options, so most travelers prefer to stay in Mussoorie or Thatyur. However, for those seeking a more authentic and rustic experience, there are a few guesthouses available in Thatyur and nearby villages. For adventurous visitors, camping is also an option, offering the chance to spend the night under the stars.
- Budget Hotels: You can find budget accommodations in Thatyur or Mussoorie with basic amenities.
- Camping: If you prefer a more adventurous experience, you can bring your own camping gear and set up camp near the temple.
Travel Tips for Visiting Devalsari Temple
| Travel Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Carry Water and Snacks | The temple is in a remote area with limited shops. Bring enough water and snacks for your trek. |
| Carry a First Aid Kit | Due to the remote location and rugged terrain, carry a basic first aid kit with essential supplies. |
| Wear Comfortable Footwear | The trek involves walking through forested paths with uneven terrain. Wear sturdy trekking shoes. |
| Check the Weather | Weather can be unpredictable, especially during monsoon. Carry rain gear or warm clothing as needed. |
| Start Early for Trek | Begin your trek early to avoid hiking in the dark and to have more time to explore. |
| Respect Local Culture | The temple is sacred to locals. Dress modestly and follow their customs to maintain the sanctity. |
| Hire a Local Guide | If unfamiliar with the area, consider hiring a local guide. They can also share the temple’s history. |
| Bring a Camera/Binoculars | The route is great for birdwatching and photography. Bring your camera or binoculars to capture the beauty. |
Conclusion
Devalsari Temple in Uttarakhand is not just a place for worship, but also a peaceful retreat where you can connect with both nature and spirituality. It’s a perfect spot if you are seeking calm surroundings, want to dive into the rich history of the Garhwal region, or are looking for an offbeat travel experience.
With its deep historical roots, quiet atmosphere, and being close to popular trekking trails like Nag Tibba, a trip to Devalsari Temple will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
