Dhari Devi Temple, Srinagar: A Spiritual Journey through the Heart of Uttarakhand

India celebrates its cultures through its array of temples across its geographical stretch. Every city has some or their other significant place of worship with a rich heritage and history associated with it. Through this post we are going to discuss one such spiritual gem that is the Dhari Devi Temple. Nestled along the serene river bank of Alaknanda, in Srinagar, Uttarakhand, the Dhari Devi Temple is one of the most revered shrines of the region. Resting in the lap of nature and adorned by the crown of the Himalayas, the sight of this temple is one to behold. 

Legend of the Dhari Devi Temple: 

As per the legend goes, it is believed that a local shepherd found the idol of the Dhari Devi floating in the Alaknanda river. With his attempts to pick the idol going vain, he decided to leave it behind on a rock. This was followed by the goddess appearing in the shepherd's dream instructing him to place the idol at a different location which is now known to be the Dhari Devi Temple. It is also believed that the goddess is present at this location in three different forms. She appears as a little girl in the morning, as a woman during the day, followed by appearing as an old woman at night. 

History of The Dhari Devi Temple: 

This believably centuries old temple, is known to be a revered pilgrimage for the devotees of Goddess Kali. The structure of the temple is situated overlooking the river Alaknanda. The spirituality of this place truly invokes the devotees along with the majestic charm of the place. The idol placed within the temple is the upper half of the goddess, while the lower half is known to reside at the Kalimath Temple which is at a distance of almost 35 KMs from the Dhari Devi Temple. 

The interesting thing to note is that there is no roof constructed over the head of the idol as it was believed that the goddess herself refused to sit beneath any kind of shelter. 

How to Reach: 

Via Air: 

The nearest airport to this temple is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is at a distance of almost 133 KMs. Upon arrival at the airport one can opt for hiring a taxi or taking the local transport to reach the temple. 

Via Train: 

The nearest railway station to the Dhari Devi Temple is at Rishikesh. Taxis and local transport buses are available nearby to travel from Rishikesh to Srinagar. 

Via Road: 

The temple premises are well connected via road networks. Devotees and visitors can hire a taxi, or board local buses from major places such as Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun. The temple is located at a distance of approximately 19 KMs from Srinagar (Uttarakhand)

Upon arrival at the nearest location via your vehicles, a short trek takes you up to the temple. Immerse yourself in the spiritual and enigmatic aura of the premises. The resonance of protection and divine power welcomes all the devotees with open arms. This zen journey is bound to leave you spellbound with the mountains giving you warmth. Therefore this temple is a must visit if you are travelling through Uttarakhand.