Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand is a famous Hindu temple located on the banks of the Alaknanda River, between Srinagar and Rudraprayag in the Garhwal region. It is dedicated to Goddess Dhari, a form of Goddess Kali. This temple is not just a place to pray, but also a symbol of faith, history, and mystery. In this guide, we will look at the history, importance, visiting hours, and how to get to this holy place. Visit Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand to experience its divine presence.
Dhari Devi Temple History
The Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand is very important to both devotees and locals. The temple has the upper half of the idol of Goddess Dhari, while the lower half is in Kalimath, where she is worshipped as a form of Goddess Kali. It is one of the 108 Shakti Sthals in India, as mentioned in Srimad Devi Bhagwat.
According to legends, the temple was built in the Dwapar Yuga. The idol of the goddess is said to change its appearance during the day, looking like a girl in the morning, a woman at noon, and an elderly woman in the evening. This unique feature adds to the temple’s mystery and charm. The goddess is believed to protect the Char Dham—Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri.
The Dhari Devi Temple History is also linked to the 2013 Uttarakhand floods. On June 16, 2013, the original temple was moved to a concrete platform to make way for the 330 MW Alaknanda Hydro Electric Dam. Just hours after the idol was moved, the region experienced one of the worst natural disasters, leading many to believe that the goddess’s anger caused the devastation. The Dhari Devi Temple History is a testament to its significance and the deep faith of its devotees.
Old Dhari Devi Temple
One of the most interesting things about the Dhari Devi Temple is its link to natural disasters. Many people believe that moving the temple’s idol causes these disasters. This belief was proven on June 16, 2013, when the temple was moved for the Alaknanda Hydro Electric Power Project. On the same day, severe floods hit Uttarakhand, causing a lot of damage. This event made the locals believe even more in the divine protection of Goddess Dhari.
How to Reach Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand
Reaching the Dhari Devi Temple is an adventure in itself, offering travelers a scenic journey through the majestic landscapes of Uttarakhand.
-By Air:
Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand is closest to the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 150 kilometers away. This airport has good connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
-By Train:
The nearest railway station to Dhari Devi Temple is Rishikesh, which is about 120 kilometers away. Rishikesh has regular train services connecting it to major cities like Delhi and Haridwar. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
-By Road:
Dhari Devi Temple is easy to reach by road. You can get there by bus, taxi, or private car. The temple is on National Highway 58, which connects Haridwar to Badrinath, making it accessible from many parts of Uttarakhand. It is about 15 kilometers from Srinagar (Garhwal) and 20 kilometers from Rudraprayag.
If you are coming from Delhi, you can take a bus or drive to Haridwar, then continue on NH58. The total distance from Delhi to the temple is about 390 kilometers, and the drive takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic.
Delhi to Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand
Delhi to Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand distance is about 390 kilometers. You can take a bus or drive to Haridwar, then continue on NH58. The drive takes around 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. The route is scenic, and you can stop at places like Rishikesh and Devprayag along the way.
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Dhari Devi Temple Timings
The Temple is open throughout the year, and the Dhari Devi Temple Timings are as follows:
- Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
It is best to visit the temple during the morning and evening aarti (prayer) to experience the spiritual ambiance and witness the rituals. The aarti timings are:
- Morning Aarti: 6:30 AM
- Evening Aarti: 6:30 PM
Best Time to Visit Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand
The best time to visit Dhari Devi Temple is during the months of January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. The weather during these months is pleasant, making it ideal for a pilgrimage. The temple also sees a significant influx of devotees during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor.
Dhari Devi Temple Images
Food Near Dhari Devi Temple
| Food Type | Popular Dishes |
|---|---|
| Local Garhwali Food | Kafuli (spinach-based), Phaanu (lentil-based), Aloo ke Gutke (spiced potatoes) |
| Cafe and Asian Cuisine | Neapolitan Pizza, Asian Dishes |
| Chinese and Indian Cuisine | Chinese Dishes, Indian Curries |
| Italian and American Cuisine | Italian Pasta, American Burgers |
| Chinese Cuisine | Chinese Noodles, Fried Rice |
Hotels Near Dhari Devi Temple
While visiting Dhari Devi Temple, you can find several hotels and guesthouses for a comfortable stay. Here are some options:
1. Monal Resort
A luxury/premium hotel located on the main Badrinath Road, offering a charming stay with amenities like free parking, a restaurant, and children’s activities.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Location: Main Badrinath Road, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
- Price: Varies based on room type and season
- Distance from Dhari Devi Temple: Approximately 13.6 km
2. Mumukshu Resort
A family-friendly resort in Pauri with majestic views of the Himalayas, offering free breakfast and parking.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Location: Devprayag Road, Pauri, Uttarakhand
- Price: Varies based on room type and season
- Distance from Dhari Devi Temple: Approximately 16.8 km
3. Rudra Complex Rudraprayag
A mid-range hotel offering soundproof rooms with views of the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
- Location: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
- Price: Varies based on room type and season
- Distance from Dhari Devi Temple: Approximately 9.3 km.
4. Amritara Sun Inn, Kedarnath
A 4-star property with a garden, terrace, and restaurant, offering free private parking and paid airport shuttle service.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Location: Kedarnath Rd, Maikhanda, Post Office Phata, Uttarakhand
- Price: Varies based on room type and season
- Distance from Dhari Devi Temple: Approximately 24.1 km.
5. Farasu Hills Resort
A 3-star hotel with a garden and terrace, offering a serene stay with well-furnished rooms and efficient staff.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
- Location: Dungripath, Farasu, Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
- Price: Varies based on room type and season
- Distance from Dhari Devi Temple: Approximately 8.4 km.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Dhari Devi Temple, you can also explore several nearby attractions:
- Srinagar: Located just 14 km from the temple, Srinagar is a picturesque town known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
- Rudraprayag: Situated 20 km from the temple, Rudraprayag is a confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers and is a significant pilgrimage site.
- Kalimath Temple: Located in Kalimath, this temple is dedicated to the lower half of Goddess Dhari and is one of the 108 Shakti Sthals.
- Khirsu Village: A peaceful spot located 30 km away from Dhari Devi Temple, Khirsu is dotted with dense pine and deodar forests and boasts lush apple orchards.
- Kandoliya Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is located around 46 km from Dhari Devi Temple and offers an impressive view of the town of Pauri and the Gangwarsyun valley.
- Kyunkaleshwar Temple: An ancient temple from the 8th century dedicated to Lord Shiva, located around 49 km from Dhari Devi Temple.
Travel Tips
| Travel Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Dress Modestly | As Dhari Devi Temple is a religious site, it is essential to dress modestly and respectfully. |
| Photography | Taking photographs of the Dhari Devi idol is strictly prohibited. |
| Footwear | Remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. |
| Local Customs | Respect local customs and traditions while visiting the temple. |
| Weather | Check the weather forecast before planning your trip, especially during the monsoon season, as the region is prone to landslides and heavy rainfall. |
| Accommodation | There are several hotels and guesthouses available in Srinagar and Rudraprayag for a comfortable stay. |
Conclusion
Dhari Devi Temple in Uttarakhand is more than just a place to pray; it’s a spiritual sanctuary that connects you with the divine. Its peaceful location, rich history, and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Uttarakhand. Whether you are a devotee looking for blessings or a traveler wanting to explore India’s culture and nature, Dhari Devi Temple offers an experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable.
FAQ’s
Why was the Dhari Devi Temple relocated in 2013?
The original Dhari Devi Temple was relocated on June 16, 2013, to make way for the construction of the 330 MW Alaknanda Hydro Electric Dam.
Are there any restrictions on photography at Dhari Devi Temple?
Yes, taking photographs of the Dhari Devi idol is strictly prohibited. Devotees are requested to respect this rule and refrain from taking pictures inside the temple premises.
How can I reach Dhari Devi Temple from Delhi?
You can reach Dhari Devi Temple from Delhi by air (via Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun), train (via Rishikesh), or road (approximately 373 km, 7-8 hours by car).
What are the temple timings for Dhari Devi Temple?
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
