The Purnagiri Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located atop the Purnagiri hill in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Purnagiri, an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Parvati or Durga, and is considered one of the 108 Siddha Peethas. The temple is a prominent pilgrimage site, especially during the Navaratri festival.
The temple is situated on the right bank of the Kali River, at the top of Purnagiri hill, near Tanakpur, in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, India. It lies near the India-Nepal border at an altitude of approximately 3000 meters above sea level.
Purnagiri Temple can be reached by a combination of road and trek. Visitors can travel by road to Thulligad, which is about 20 kilometers from Tanakpur. From Thulligad, a 3-km trek begins, which leads up to the temple. Some parts of the journey may involve climbing steps or walking on a paved path. During the festival season, special transportation and facilities are often arranged.
The best time to visit the Purnagiri Temple is during the Chaitra Navaratri festival, which usually takes place in March or April. This month-long festival attracts thousands of pilgrims. Otherwise, the months of September to November and March to June are considered ideal for visiting due to the pleasant weather.
For pilgrims, the Purnagiri Temple holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed to be a place where the goddess Sati's navel fell, making it a Shakti Peeth. The temple offers blessings and divinity to its visitors. During the Chaitra Navaratri festival, it is said that the goddess blesses her devotees with prosperity and happiness.
During the peak pilgrimage season, temporary camps and lodges are set up to accommodate the influx of pilgrims. In Tanakpur and around, there are a few guest houses and budget hotels. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance during the festival period due to the high demand.
During the Chaitra Navaratri, Purnagiri Temple becomes the center of grand celebrations. Pilgrims undertake a challenging journey filled with faith and devotion. The area is bustling with festive activities, rituals, and a fair known as the 'Purnagiri Mela.' Due to the heavy crowd, visitors should expect long queues and basic amenities. It's a vibrant display of cultural and spiritual fervor.
Yes, tourists visiting Purnagiri Temple can also explore nearby attractions such as Banasur Ka Kila (Banasur's Fort), Shyamlatal Lake, and Abbot Mount, which offer scenic views and have historical and cultural significance. The region's natural beauty and serene environment are also popular among nature enthusiasts.
Travel to Purnagiri Temple is generally safe, but it is located in a hilly terrain, so precautions are necessary. The trek to the temple can be strenuous, and it is advised that elderly people and those with medical conditions consult with their doctors before planning the trip. During the monsoon season, the region may experience landslides and travel disruptions, so it's best to avoid this time.
Basic facilities such as drinking water, small eateries, and medical camps are available. During the festival season, the local administration also sets up additional facilities to assist the pilgrims. However, it's a spiritual pilgrimage site with limited amenities, so it's advisable to carry essentials and plan adequately.
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