Dhari Devi Temple – Complete Details
The Dhari Devi Temple is one of the most revered and ancient temples located in the Devbhumi Uttarakhand, dedicated to Goddess Dhari (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). The temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus and is situated near Karnaprayag on the Alaknanda River.
1. Location
- District: Chamoli, Uttarakhand, India.
- Near: The temple is situated near the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers.
- Altitude: The temple is located at an elevation of 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level.
2. Significance of Dhari Devi Temple
- The Dhari Devi Temple is considered one of the 108 Shakti Peethas, where different body parts of Goddess Sati are said to have fallen.
- The deity in the temple is worshiped as the Guardian deity of Uttarakhand.
- Pilgrims believe that praying at Dhari Devi grants protection, peace, and blessings to those undertaking holy journeys or prayers.
- The temple has witnessed many miraculous occurrences and has played a pivotal role in several legends surrounding Goddess Durga.
3. History of Dhari Devi Temple
- The temple has historical roots dating back to ancient times.
- According to legend, during Lord Shiva’s Tandav (cosmic dance), the body of Goddess Sati was cut into pieces by Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra, and parts of her body fell at various places across India. It is believed that her left arm fell here, making it a Shakti Peetha.
- The original temple stood on higher ground, but it was submerged multiple times due to the construction of Tehri Dam and other hydroelectric projects. In recent years, a new temple structure has been established at a nearby higher location.
4. Major Festivals Celebrated
- The main festival celebrated at Dhari Devi is Navratri (the nine-day festival in honor of Goddess Durga).
- During Navratri, pilgrims and devotees from across Uttarakhand and other regions visit the temple to seek the goddess’s blessings.
- Special Aarti (prayers and offerings) are conducted during the Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri.
5. Access and How to Reach Dhari Devi Temple
By Road:
- The temple is well-connected by road networks to major towns like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Karnaprayag.
- From Karnaprayag, it’s around 20 km to the temple via motorable roads.
By Rail:
- The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Haridwar.
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 160 km away from Dhari Devi Temple.
6. Accommodation Options
- Karnaprayag is the nearest town where you can find basic to mid-range accommodations like guesthouses and dharamshalas.
- During peak seasons like Navratri, Kartik Purnima, and Chaitra, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance.
7. Best Time to Visit Dhari Devi Temple
- The temple can be visited year-round, but the best time is during Navratri (September-October) and Sharad Purnima (October-November) when a large number of devotees flock to the temple.
- Monsoon season (July-August) should be avoided due to landslides and heavy rainfall.
8. Temples Nearby
- Karnaprayag: The temple is located near Karnaprayag, which is also home to other famous temples such as Narsingh Devta Temple.
- Rudraprayag: Another nearby confluence town where the Rudra and Mandakini rivers meet, featuring significant religious sites.
9. Legends and Beliefs
- It’s believed that the deity at Dhari Devi protects the region from natural calamities and disasters.
- The temple has been reconstructed multiple times, but its spiritual significance has remained intact through the ages.
10. Visiting Tips:
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes if you plan to walk the paths leading up to the temple.
- Carry water, light snacks, and a first aid kit for the journey.
- Respect the local traditions and rituals followed in the temple premises.
- Be cautious of weather conditions, as the temple area can witness sudden climate changes.
