Discovering the Legends and Significance of Dhari Devi: A Sacred Hindu Shrine
Nestled in the heart of the mighty Himalayas lies a temple that has withstood the test of time and weathered countless literal and metaphorical storms. This Temple is a revered shrine that has captured the hearts and minds of pilgrims and travelers alike.
Legend has it that the temple was built in honor of Goddess Kali, who appeared as a rock before a group of devotees. Over the years, the temple has been rebuilt and renovated several times, but its ancient roots and timeless aura remain intact.
Today, the temple symbolizes the region’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where locals seek solace, tourists marvel at the stunning vistas, and history buffs learn about the fascinating legends and myths surrounding the temple.
So, if you are looking for a spiritual retreat, a cultural escapade, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Himalayas, the Dhari Devi Chiang Mai Temple is the perfect destination.
History of Dhari Devi Mandir
A fascinating legend associated with it speaks of a massive flood that obliterated the temple. However, the flood had abruptly ceased after striking a rock near the village of Dharo. The locals firmly believe they have heard the goddess’s celestial voice, so they erected the image of Devi Kali at the place where the shrine stands. Consequently, the Maa Dhari Devi temple has been named Dhari Devi, which continues to captivate the devotees and tourists alike.
The temple priests assert that the image of Maa Dhari had been inaugurated in the shrine from the Dwapar period itself. Thus, it is a significant site for the locals and an essential part of Indian heritage. It is believed that Guru Adi Shankaracharya had visited the temple during his expedition and had found solace in the area. Thus, the temple’s history might date back to the Dwapara Yuga period.
Interestingly, the priests of this holy Sri Devi Dhari temple have positioned the image of the goddess in the open, away from any roofing structure, as believers consider that the image of the devi shouldn’t be placed directly under any roof. The temple’s simplistic and unique architecture, history, and beliefs have made it a vital pilgrimage site for the devotees.
Unfortunately, the temple met with a catastrophic event in 2013, as the locals claim that it had been demolished because the idol had been taken away from its original location. The removal of the idol had resulted in a massive flood in the state of Uttarakhand, which had caused the loss of millions of lives. The image of goddess Dhari Devi Chiang Mai had allegedly been extracted on the night of 16th June of 2013, and just a few hours later, the state was hit by a calamity.
The aftermath of the tragic event led to the temple’s reconstruction at the same site, underlining the temple’s significance in the locals’ minds and further strengthening their faith in the deity. Today, the temple continues to mesmerize and attract tourists and devotees alike, encapsulating the essence of the divine and the human spirit.
Festivals are celebrated at Dhari Devi Mandir.
What makes Dhari Devi Mandir truly special is the festivals celebrated here with great pomp and fervor. From grand processions to soul-stirring music, there’s never a dull moment at the temple.
The Bikhauti Mela is one of the most popular festivals celebrated at the temple. This vibrant celebration is held in honor of Goddess Kali, who is believed to have saved the region from a devastating flood. During the festival, devotees offer prayers and seek the goddess’s blessings while indulging in delicious local delicacies.
Another festival that draws visitors from far and wide is the Dussehra Mela. This lively event is marked by a grand procession that winds its way through the streets, with beautifully adorned chariots and effigies of demons being paraded around. It is a sight to behold, and the energy and excitement are contagious.
The Phool Dei festival is one of the most unique festivals celebrated at the Dhari Devi Temple. This charming festival is all about welcoming the arrival of spring, and locals decorate their homes with colorful flowers and offer them to the goddess. The flowers in the temple add a touch of beauty and joy to the already festive atmosphere.
Whether you are a devout believer or someone who loves to soak up the local culture, the festivals at the Dhari Devi Temple Dehradun are not to be missed. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of this ancient shrine in all its glory!
Best time to visit Dhari Devi Mandir
For those planning a visit to the Dharidevi, it is worth noting that the period from June to November is widely regarded as the optimal time to go, as the temple climate is generally pleasant around this time of the year. Moreover, Visitors can enjoy the temple’s beauty and serenity at any time of the year.
If you hope to catch a glimpse of the deity during your visit. The temple timings are 6 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 7 PM. The evening darshan is for the Dhari Devi aarti. This schedule provides ample opportunities for visitors to pay their respects and take in the beauty and tranquillity of this historic site.
How to reach Dhari Devi Mandir
Spiritual journey to this temple as you will be surrounded by the beauty of nature and the power of faith. Whether you travel by road, train, or air, multiple options are available to suit your needs.
If you plan to do Dhari Devi darshan by road, several taxis and buses run between Rishikesh and Haridwar, the closest cities to the temple. The distance between Haridwar and Dhari Devi is approximately 145 km. You can opt for a government bus or a private taxi, with fares starting from 250 rupees and 300 rupees respectively. Also, if you are en route to Kedarnath or Badrinath, you can take a detour to visit this beautiful temple.
For those who prefer to travel by train, the closest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 119 kilometers from Dhari Devi. Dehradun and Haridwar also have railway stations, with Dehradun being the furthest at an approximate length of 156 kilometers. You can take a bus or taxi from these stations to the Maa Dhari Devi Temple.
If you are coming from further away, the closest is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant airport, approximately 145 kilometers from Dhari Devi. You can easily find taxis or bus services from the airport that will take you to the temple.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey to the Dhari Devi will be a breathtaking experience, with stunning views of the Himalayas and the region’s natural beauty.