Hidden in the peaceful village of Netwar in Uttarkashi district, Pokhu Devta Temple is not just a place of worship – it’s a symbol of justice, discipline, and deep-rooted faith. Surrounded by the lush forests of deodar, pine, and chir trees, this temple sits quietly at the confluence of the Rupin and Supin rivers, forming the mighty Tons River.
Where Is It?
- Location: Netwar village, Mori block, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
- Distance: About 160 km from Uttarkashi town
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Trek Route: A narrow trail leads to the temple, crossing a light iron bridge over the river – a short but adventurous walk!
Who Is Pokhu Devta?
Pokhu Devta is worshipped as the God of Justice. Locals believe that if someone is wronged and doesn’t get justice elsewhere, they can come to this temple – and justice will be served swiftly and fairly. That’s why people here rarely go to court. They trust Pokhu Devta more than any legal system.
Unique Worship Style
Here’s what makes this temple truly special:
- No one is allowed to look at the deity. Not even the priest.
- Worship is done with your back turned to the idol.
- This is because the deity is believed to be in a unique form – his face is underground, and his body is above the earth, in a nude and reversed posture. Seeing him is considered disrespectful.
Even the priest bathes in the river before entering the temple and performs the rituals while facing away from the idol.
A God Who Keeps Order
Pokhu Devta is known to be strict. People believe he punishes those who lie, steal, or break the rules. That’s why the villages around the temple are known for being peaceful and crime-free. Every home in the region worships him in the form of sickles and knives, symbols of protection and justice.
Local Fairs and Beliefs
- A grand mela (fair) is held in November, where the priest makes predictions about the coming year’s harvest and prosperity.
- These predictions are taken very seriously—and often come true!
- The temple is also linked to Karna from the Mahabharata, and Pokhu Devta is believed to be his representative and a servant of Lord Shiva.
Why You Should Visit
If you’re a traveler seeking spiritual depth, local legends, and offbeat experiences, Pokhu Devta Temple is a must-visit. It’s not just a temple—it’s a living story of faith, discipline, and divine justice nestled in the heart of the Himalayas.
How to Reach Pokhu Devta Temple
By Road
The most convenient way to reach Pokhu Devta Temple is by road. The temple is located in Netwar village, about 12 km from Mori in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. If you’re coming from Dehradun or Chakrata, you can drive towards Tiuni and then continue to Mori via the scenic Har ki Dun Valley route. From Mori, local jeeps or private vehicles can take you to Netwar. The final stretch to the temple involves a short 2.5 km trek on a narrow trail, crossing a light iron bridge over the confluence of the Rupin and Supin rivers.
By Air
The nearest airport to Pokhu Devta Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 181 km from Uttarkashi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mori or directly to Netwar, depending on availability. The road journey from Dehradun to Netwar offers beautiful views of the Garhwal Himalayas and is a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
By Train
The closest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, located around 144 km from Uttarkashi. After arriving at the station, you can continue your journey by road via the Chakrata–Tiuni–Mori route. From Mori, head to Netwar village and then trek the final 2.5 km to reach the temple. The route is peaceful and scenic, making it a rewarding journey for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pokhu Devta Temple is between October and May. During these months, the weather is cool, pleasant, and ideal for trekking and sightseeing. The surrounding forests are lush, and the skies are usually clear, making the journey enjoyable. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with snowfall on nearby hills, but it adds a magical charm to the landscape. However, it’s best to avoid the monsoon season (July to September), as the trail becomes slippery and risky due to heavy rains and the threat of landslides.
Nearby Places to Visit from Pokhu Devta Temple
1. Gaichwan Village – Temple of Karna
Just a short distance from Netwar, Gaichwan Village is home to a unique temple dedicated to Karna, the legendary warrior from the Mahabharata. This temple is deeply connected to the mythology of Pokhu Devta, who is believed to be Karna’s charioteer’s guardian. The village also serves as an alternate and lesser-known route to Kedarkantha Peak, offering a more secluded trekking experience.
2. Sankri Village
Located about 11 km from Netwar, Sankri is a popular base for treks like Har Ki Dun, Kedarkantha, and Bali Pass. It’s a charming Himalayan hamlet surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks. If you’re planning a multi-day adventure, Sankri is a perfect stopover.
3. Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
Netwar is the entry gate to this stunning wildlife sanctuary. The park is rich in alpine flora and fauna, including Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and musk deer. It’s also home to the Har Ki Dun Valley, making it a paradise for trekkers, bird watchers, and nature lovers.
4. Purola
About 50 km from Netwar, Purola0 is the nearest major town with good road connectivity, basic amenities, and scenic views. It’s a great place to stop for supplies or rest before heading deeper into the Tons Valley region.
Conclusion
Pokhu Devta Temple is more than just a place of worship—it’s a living symbol of faith, justice, and tradition in the heart of Uttarakhand’s Jaunsar-Bawar region. Tucked away in the peaceful village of Netwar, this sacred site offers a rare glimpse into a culture where divine justice still holds deep meaning. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, visiting Pokhu Devta Temple is a journey into the soul of the Himalayas—quiet, powerful, and unforgettable.
So, if you’re planning your next offbeat escape, let the trail lead you to Netwar. The temple awaits—not just to be seen, but to be felt.
FAQs About Pokhu Devta Temple
1. Where is Pokhu Devta Temple located?
Pokhu Devta Temple is situated in Netwar village, in the Mori block of Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. It lies near the confluence of the Rupin and Supin rivers, which form the Tons River.
2. Why is Pokhu Devta Temple famous?
The temple is known for its unique worship rituals and for being the seat of divine justice. Locals believe that anyone seeking justice can come here and receive a fair resolution without going to court.
3. Can visitors see the deity inside the temple?
No. It is strictly forbidden to look at the deity. Even the priest performs rituals with his back turned to the idol, as the deity is believed to be in a nude and reversed posture, with his face underground.
4. What is the best time to visit the temple?
The ideal time to visit is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and the trail is safe. Avoid the monsoon season (July–September) due to slippery paths and landslide risks.
5. How can I reach Pokhu Devta Temple?
You can reach Netwar village by road from Dehradun via Chakrata–Tiuni–Mori. From Netwar, a 2.5 km trek leads to the temple. The nearest airport and railway station are in Dehradun.
6. Are there any festivals or fairs held at the temple?
Yes. A grand fair is held in November, where the priest makes predictions about the region’s harvest and prosperity. These forecasts are taken seriously by the locals.
7. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Photography inside the temple is generally discouraged, especially near the sanctum, out of respect for the deity and local customs.
