Have you ever heard of a temple where people write their wishes on paper, pin them on the walls, and patiently wait for them to be fulfilled? That special place is the famous Golu Devta Temple Ghorakhal, near Nainital in Uttarakhand. Known as the temple of justice, this shrine holds a very special place in the heart of the Kumaon region. Travelers, locals, students, and even officials trust the divine power of Golu Devta and believe that no honest wish goes unheard here.
This guide will walk you through all the important details about Golu Devta Temple Ghorakhal. If you are planning a visit, stay with this blog till the end to explore its history, timings, how to reach, ticket fare, and useful tips that will make your trip truly memorable.
Why is Golu Devta Temple Famous?
The Golu Devta Temple is not just a religious spot, it is a symbol of justice. The temple is dedicated to Lord Golu, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. People visit the temple to seek blessings, but more importantly, to request justice in matters of life. The most unique feature is that devotees write their prayers on plain paper, often in the form of petitions, and tie them with threads inside the temple premises.
Once a wish is fulfilled, devotees return with gratitude, sometimes bringing bells of different sizes. That is why when you enter the temple, you see thousands of bells hanging everywhere, creating a divine and musical atmosphere.
Golu Devta Temple Ghorakhal History
According to local legends, Golu Devta was a brave and just ruler, admired for his fairness and compassion. He often traveled across his kingdom on horseback, meeting people directly and resolving their disputes.
Open courts, known as Golu Darbar, were a hallmark of his rule, where he listened to the poor and offered them justice. Over time, his presence came to be seen as divine, and devotees began tying bells and petitions at the temple, seeking his blessings in matters of justice, court cases, and personal struggles.
During the 19th century, as nearby hill towns developed, the temple was expanded with idols of Shiva, Parvati, and members of Golu Devta’s family, turning it into a more complete place of worship. Tales of fulfilled prayers spread widely, and devotees began offering bells and written notes as a symbol of faith and gratitude.
Where Exactly is Golu Devta Temple Located?
Golu Devta Temple is situated in Ghorakhal, near Bhowali, in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Ghorakhal is admired for its natural charm and green surroundings. The name “Ghorakhal” means “pond for horses,” and the place is also known for the well-known Sainik School Ghorakhal. The temple stands on a peaceful height, offering beautiful views of the valley and pine-covered hills.
For travelers exploring the Kumaon region, visiting this temple is highly recommended. Its close distance to Nainital and Kainchi Dham makes it a convenient and refreshing day trip.
How to Reach Golu Devta Temple Ghorakhal?
1. By Road
Reaching Golu Devta Temple is simple and well-connected. The first stop for most routes is Bhowali, which serves as the main junction. You can easily reach Bhowali by shared jeeps, local buses, or private taxis.
- Kathgodam to Bhowali: Shared jeep fare is around 75 to 80 INR per person.
- Kainchi Dham to Bhowali: Shared jeep fare is about 20 INR per person.
- Nainital to Bhowali: Shared jeep fare is around 75 INR per person.
Once you reach Bhowali, you need to continue to Ghorakhal where the temple is located. For this short stretch:
- Shared jeep fare from Bhowali to Golu Devta Temple is about 50 INR per person.
- A private cab for the same route can cost around 500 INR, depending on the car type and negotiation.
2. By Train
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, around 33 km away. Trains from Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun connect here regularly. After reaching Kathgodam, you can take a shared jeep or taxi to Bhowali, and then proceed to the temple as explained above.
3. By Air
The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located about 67 km away. Flights connect Pantnagar to Delhi and nearby cities. From the airport, taxis are easily available to Nainital or Bhowali, and then onward to the temple at Ghorakhal.
Temple Timings
The temple is open every day.6:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Best Time to Visit Golu Devta Temple Ghorakhal
The temple is open throughout the year, but the experience changes with the seasons.
- March to June: Pleasant weather with blooming flowers all around. This is one of the best times as you can also combine your trip with sightseeing in Nainital.
- July to September: In Monsoon heavy rains can cause roadblocks and landslides, so it is good to check road conditions before planning. Traveling in peak monsoon is not advised, but after mid-September the temple surroundings turn magical, with thick fog around the premises making it feel like you are standing in the middle of clouds.
- October to November: Clear skies and crisp air make this period very attractive. The valley looks magical during autumn.
- December to February: Winters are chilly and sometimes snowfall can be experienced in nearby areas. Carry warm clothes if you plan a visit during these months.
If you are looking for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds, early mornings on weekdays are perfect.
Are There Food and Stay Options Nearby?
There are no major food joints or dhabas near Golu Devta Temple itself. Only one small store is available close to the temple that serves basic items like parathas, tea, and coffee. For proper meals, you will need to come back to Bhowali.
As for stay options, there are no hotels or guesthouses near the temple. Accommodation is easily available in Bhowali, Nainital, and Kainchi Dham, where you will find everything from budget homestays to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts.
Final Thoughts
Golu Devta Temple is not just a place to visit, it is a sacred site where faith, culture, and nature come together. Surrounded by pine-covered hills and filled with centuries of beliefs, it still stands as a symbol of justice for devotees.
If you are planning a trip to Uttarakhand, be sure to include Ghorakhal in your journey. After visiting, you will understand why people lovingly call it the temple of justice.
Keep this guide saved for your trip planning, and feel free to share your thoughts or questions in the comments. Your feedback can help other travelers enjoy a memorable visit too.
