Dhari Devi Temple

The information provided offers insights into the Dhari Devi Temple in Uttarakhand, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Here are key points to know:

Temple and Deity:

1. Dedication to Dhari Devi: The temple is dedicated to Dhari Devi, a form of Goddess Kali, revered as the guardian deity of Uttarakhand.
2. Protector of Char Dhams: Dhari Devi is worshipped as the protector of the Char Dhams (four pilgrimage sites) in Uttarakhand.
3. Mythological Origin:

• A severe flood is said to have washed away a temple, leading to the idol of Dhari Devi being trapped against a rock near Dharo village.
• Local residents claim to have heard wails and a divine voice directing them to install the idol in its current location.

4. Changing Appearance:

• According to local lore, the idol of Dhari Devi is believed to change appearance throughout the day.
• In the morning, she appears as a girl child, transforms into a young woman in the afternoon, and becomes an old woman in the evening.

5. Two Parts of the Deity:

• Goddess Dhari Devi is said to have two parts: her upper half is worshipped at the Dhari Devi temple, while her lower half is worshipped at the Kalimath temple as Maa Kali.

6. Open Sky Worship:

• According to legend, Dhari Devi’s idol cannot be kept under any roof, and the portion of the temple where the idol is placed is always open towards the sky.

Location and Access:

1. Geographical Location: The temple is situated between Srinagar and Rudraprayag on the banks of the River Alaknanda.
2. Cement Pathway: Access to the temple is facilitated by a one-kilometer cement pathway.

Best Time to Visit:

1. Year-Round Visit: The temple can be visited throughout the year.
2. Festive Atmosphere: The temple is particularly festive during Durga Puja and Navratri, attracting devotees during these significant Hindu festivals.

Understanding these aspects provides a glimpse into the spiritual and mythological significance of the Dhari Devi temple and the cultural practices associated with its worship.