Nestled amidst the lush green hills of the Garhwal Himalayas, the Hariyali Devi Temple is a revered Hindu shrine that attracts thousands of devotees every year. Dedicated to the goddess Hariyali Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the temple is situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) above sea level in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India.
Legends and History
According to Hindu mythology, when Mahamaya, the seventh child of Devaki, was conceived, Kansa, the evil king of Mathura, threw her violently on the ground. Consequently, several body parts of Mahamaya got strewn all over the earth. One part – the hand – fell at Haryali Devi, Jasholi.
It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas during their exile. The temple has been mentioned in several ancient texts, including the Mahabharata and the Skanda Purana.
Religious Significance
The Hariyali Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. These are sacred sites where the body parts of Sati, the consort of Shiva, are said to have fallen. The Hariyali Devi Temple is believed to be the place where the hand of Sati fell.
The temple is also considered to be a wish-fulfilling shrine. Devotees from all over India come to the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess.
How to Reach
By Train
The nearest railway station to the Hariyali Devi Temple is Rishikesh Railway Station, located approximately 160 kilometers from the temple. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the temple.
By Air
The nearest major airport to the Hariyali Devi Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, roughly 179 kilometers from Rudraprayag. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to reach the temple.
By Road
The Hariyali Devi Temple is located about 175 kilometers from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand. The nearest town is Rudraprayag, which is about 37 kilometers away. The temple can be reached by road from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. There are regular bus services from these cities to Rudraprayag. From Rudraprayag, you can take a taxi or a shared jeep to the temple.
Distance from Major Cities
- Dehradun – 175 km
- Rishikesh – 160 km
- Haridwar – 141 km
- Rudraprayag – 37 km
Festivals and Celebrations
The Hariyali Devi Temple is a major pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees throughout the year. The temple is particularly crowded during the festivals of Navratri, Diwali, and Janmashtami.
During Navratri, a nine-day festival celebrating the victory of good over evil, the temple is decorated with flowers and lights. Special prayers and rituals are performed during this time.
On Diwali, the festival of lights, the temple is illuminated with thousands of diyas (oil lamps). Devotees offer prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess for prosperity and happiness.
Nearby Places to Explore
Koteshwar Mahadev Temple (12 km)
Embrace serenity at this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nestled at the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers, Koteshwar Mahadev offers not just spiritual significance but also mesmerizing views of the river confluence.
Augustmuni (25 km)
Experience the spiritual pulse of the Himalayas in Augustmuni, a holy town famous for its serene ashrams and ancient temples. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak in the tranquility at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Ukhimath (46 km)
Nestled amidst snow-capped peaks, Ukhimath is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs. Hike to the revered Omkareshwar Temple, believed to be Lord Shiva’s winter abode, and marvel at its architectural beauty. Explore the town’s quaint cafes and shops, soaking in the local charm.
Chaukhamba Viewpoint (53 km)
Gear up for a scenic adventure to the Chaukhamba Viewpoint. Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas, including the awe-inspiring Chaukhamba peak (known as the “Garhwal Everest”). This viewpoint is a photographer’s paradise.
Rudraprayag (20 km)
Don’t miss exploring Rudraprayag itself! Take a holy dip at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, visit the historic Rudranath Temple, or wander through the bustling markets, experiencing the local life
Accommodation
There are a few hotels and guesthouses near the temple. However, booking your accommodation in advance is advisable, especially during the peak season.
Tips for Visitors
- The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
- Visitors are required to dress modestly.
- It is advisable to carry cash as there are no ATMs near the temple.
Conclusion
The Hariyali Devi Temple is a sacred and serene place that offers a unique spiritual experience. If you are looking for a place to connect with your inner self and seek the blessings of the divine, then the Hariyali Devi Temple is a must-visit destination.
FAQs about Hariyali Devi Temple
1. How do I reach the Hariyali Devi Temple?
The Hariyali Devi Temple is located about 175 kilometers from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand. The nearest town is Rudraprayag, which is about 37 kilometers away. The temple can be reached by road from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. There are regular bus services from these cities to Rudraprayag. From Rudraprayag, you can take a taxi or a shared jeep to the temple.
2. What is the best time to visit the Hariyali Devi Temple?
The best time to visit the Hariyali Devi Temple is between April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak.
3. What are the timings of the Hariyali Devi Temple?
The Hariyali Devi Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
4. What are the facilities available at the Hariyali Devi Temple?
There are a few shops near the temple that sell religious items and souvenirs. There are also a few restaurants that serve basic food.
5. What are the places to visit near the Hariyali Devi Temple?
Some of the places to visit near the Hariyali Devi Temple are:
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Rudraprayag – Don’t miss exploring Rudraprayag itself! Take a holy dip at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, visit the historic Rudranath Temple, or wander through the bustling markets, experiencing the local life.
- Augustmuni – A holy town known for its ashrams and temples, Augustmuni is located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
- Ukhimath – A small town nestled amidst the Himalayas, Ukhimath is famous for the Omkareshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the winter abode of Lord Shiva.
- Koteshwar Mahadev Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is situated on the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers, offering a beautiful confluence view. It’s about 12 km from the Hariyali Devi Temple.
