Dhari Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located in Pauri district of Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to the guardian deity of Uttarakhand, Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here in the form of Dhari Devi. The temple holds great religious significance to the locals and is considered the protector of the Char Dhams. According to legend, the upper half of Goddess Kali is worshipped at Dhari Devi while the lower half is worshipped at Kalimath temple. The temple has been in the news recently because of its relocation due to the construction of a hydroelectric project, which stirred much controversy and public discourse around preserving cultural heritage.
The best time to visit Dhari Devi Temple is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and conducive for travel. The monsoon season from July to August is usually avoided by tourists due to the heavy rainfall and potential for landslides in the region.
Dhari Devi Temple can be reached by road, with the nearest city being Srinagar in Uttarakhand, located at a distance of approximately 20 kilometers. The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 136 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is Rishikesh, roughly 124 kilometers from the temple. From these points, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
Dhari Devi Temple is open for darshan from the early morning to the evening. However, the specific timings can vary slightly depending on the season and local religious festivals, so it's recommended to check locally or with a tour operator before planning your visit.
Yes, festivals like Navratri and Durga Puja are celebrated with great zeal at Dhari Devi Temple, attracting a large number of devotees. During these festivals, the temple is lavishly decorated and special prayers and rituals are performed.
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Dhari Devi Temple. However, offerings and donations are common as a sign of respect and devotion to the deity.
Basic facilities such as drinking water and small shops selling religious artifacts and offerings for the deity are available near the temple. However, amenities like accommodation and restaurants can be found in the nearby towns, with a range of options to suit different budgets.
It's important to dress modestly and respect the local customs and traditions when visiting Dhari Devi Temple. Photography inside the temple might be restricted, so it's advisable to ask for permission. Also, since the temple is located near the riverbank, it's important to be cautious during the monsoon season.
Yes, visitors are welcome to participate in the daily aartis and rituals at Dhari Devi Temple, as these are central to the devotional experience. It provides an opportunity to observe and partake in local Hindu practices.
Explore 6 Other Religious Places to Visit in Pauri
