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Maya Devi Temple Haridwar Guide – Timings, Poojas and History

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Maya Devi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Maya in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Goddess Maya is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and is the Adhisthatri of the city. The temple is one among the three prominent Siddha Peetha in Haridwar. The Chandi Devi temple and the Mansa Devi temple being the other two of the trio.

It is a popular belief that the goddesses of the Siddha Peethas fulfil the desires of her sincere devotees. This temple is also among the Char Dham Yatra package within Uttarakhand.

Planning to visit this temple? Have a look at our Char Dham Yatra Tour Package.

Maya Devi Temple – Facts

DeityGoddess Maya (Goddess Shakti)
LocationHaridwar, Uttrakhand
SignificanceSiddha Peetha
ToursChar Dham Yatra
Darshan Timings6:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry FeeFree
Best Time to VisitSeptember to April
FestivalsNavratri
Maya Devi Temple, Haridwar.

What are the timings of Maya Devi Temple?

The temple opens at 6:00 am and closes at 8:00 pm.

TimingsFromTo
Morning6 AM 12 PM
Evening2 PM 8 PM

What is the significance of the Maya Devi Temple?

Significance of Mayadevi temple
Goddess Kali (on left), Goddess Maya (in center) , and Goddess Kamakhya (on right)

The significance of Maya Devi Temple relates to the main deity, Goddess Maya, who has three heads and four arms. The inner shrine of the temple consists of the idols of the three forms of Goddess Shakti. Goddess Maya commands attention in the centre, with Kali Mata on her left and Kamakhya on her right. A pradakshina path around the sanctum sanatorium of the temple has illustrations of the ten Dash Mahavidayas. This makes this shakti peetha an important pilgrimage destination in Shaktism.

What is the history of Maya Devi Temple?

Shiva Tandava
Shiva performed the cosmic dance of destruction after Sati’s death.

According to history, Haridwar was formerly called ‘Mayapuri,’ named after the city’s guardian deity, Goddess Maya. The Maya Devi Temple is one of the three ancient temples which dates back to the eleventh century. The Narayana-Shila and the Bhairav temple are among the other two undamaged temples of the same era.

Sati was an incarnation of Goddess Adishakti, born as a blessing to Prajapati Daksha and Queen Prasuti. Goddess Shakti took birth as human to reunite with her consort, Lord Shiva.

Coming of age, Sati was mesmerised by Lord Shiva and wished to marry him. Daksha, however, was enraged by Shiva as he cut off one of Lord Bramha‘s five heads. As a bid to avenge his father’s beheading, Daksha refused to give Sati’s hand to Shiva for marriage. Eventually giving in to wishes of the Gods, Sati and Shiva were wed.

A yajna, organized by Daksha, soon after the wedding saw him invite all the gods and goddesses with an exception of Sati and Shiva. Since Sati was Daksha’s daughter, she did not feel the need for seeking an invitation. She attended the yajna despite Shiva’s warnings.

The yajna saw Daksha’s insolence when he disrespected Lord Shiva. Humiliated and unable to hear impolite remarks against her husband, Sati immolated herself. Goddess Shakti left the body.

Shiva, anguished, carried Sati’s charred body in his arms and performed Tandava. Fearing destruction due to Shiva’s cosmic dance, the gods sought help from Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu sent his Sudharshan Chakra which cut Sati’s body into 52 parts which fell on earth.

The places where the goddess’s remains fell are called shakti peethas. The Maya Devi Temple is one of the 52 shakti peethas and it is believed to be the site where the goddess’s heart and navel fell.

What are the festivals celebrated at Maya Devi Temple?

Navratri
Navratri is a combination of two Sanskrit words – ‘nava’, which means ‘nine’ and ‘ratri’, which means ‘night’.

A major festival celebrated in the temple is Navratri.

Navratri or Durga Puja: It is a famous festival, celebrated as a symbol of victory of good over evil. As per legend, Goddess Durga defeated the demon king Mahishasura to save the world and restore Dharma. Navratri is celebrated across India for nine days. Celebrations in the temple include stage decorations, recital of the legend, enacting of the story, and chanting of the scriptures of Hinduism.

How to reach Maya Devi Temple?

Here’s how to reach Maya Devi Temple Haridwar:

  • Air: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, at a distance of 35 km from the temple.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar, at a distance of 0.5 km from the temple.
  • Road: Buses for Haridwar are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi.
Adhisthatri of Mayapuri
Goddess Maya is the presiding deity of the city of Haridwar.

Where to stay near Maya Devi Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Maya Devi Temple Haridwar while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Radisson Blu Haridwar: It is a five-star hotel for a luxurious stay. It provides spacious rooms, excellent food, high speed wireless internet, a steam room and a gym. It is at a distance of 13 km from Mansa Devi Temple.
  • Ganga Lahiri: It is a hotel that provides pick-up from the railway station by cycle rickshaw. It also provides a peaceful and aesthetically appeasing interior along with a great view of Ganga.
  • Golden Tulip Haridwar: It is a four-star hotel at a 7.6 km drive from Haridwar Railway Station. This hotel boasts off excellent service in food as well as cleanliness. Moreover, guests can also avail massage therapies at the in-house massage centre.

What are some temples near Maya Devi Temple?

Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri, near Maya Devi Temple, hosts a nightly Ganga Aarti.

Some of the temples near Maya Devi Temple Haridwar are:

  • Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar:  Present atop the neel parvat in Haridwar, this temple is in the honour of Goddess Chandi. The temple is also one of the panch teerth present in Haridwar. The presiding deity, Chandi or Chandika is a form of Goddess Parvati and exists in close association with Mansa Devi.
  • Har ki pauri, Haridwar:  Har ki pauri is a religious bathing ghat in Haridwar. Literally translating to ‘Steps of Shiva’, it is on the banks of Ganga, at the point where it leaves mountains and enters the plains. It is said that a dip in the Ganges at Har ki pauri absolves one of his/ her sins.
  • Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar: Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple for goddess Mansa, on top of Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar. Also, popular as ‘Bilwa Teerth’, this temple is among the panch teerth within Haridwar. ‘Mansa’ means ‘wish’ and it is a popular belief among the devotees that the goddess fulfills their wishes.
  • Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:  It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The main deity of the temple is ‘Neelkanth’ who is a form of Lord Shiva and has a blue throat due to effect of consuming poison. It also contains various scriptures depicting ‘Samudramanthan’ by Devas and Asuras, which is mythologically relevant to the temple.
  • Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar: It is a temple dedicated to ‘Bharat Mata’ or ‘Mother India’. The temple is present alongside Samanvay Ashram on the banks of Ganga. It is 8 storeys tall, with each storey depicting an era in Indian history, from the days of Ramayana until Indian Independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Maya Devi Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Maya Devi Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fees?

The entry to the Maya Devi Temple is free.

When is the best time of the year to visit the Maya Devi Temple?

Although you can visit the temple any time of the year, ideally, February, March, August, September, and October are the best times to visit the Maya Devi Temple.

Is Mansa Devi Temple close to Maya Devi Temple?

Mansa Devi Temple is 2.4 km from the Maya Devi Temple and it takes approximately 11 minutes to travel via Haridwar Industrial Area.

Is Chandi Devi Temple close to Maya Devi Temple?

Chandi Devi Temple is 2.4 km from the Maya Devi Temple and it takes approximately 6 minutes to cover the said distance via NH34.

When is the Maya Devi Temple most crowded?

Maya Devi Temple is the most crowded during the Navratri season.

What is the weather like during summers?

The temperature during summers is mild and ranges from 35º C to 45º C. It is advisable to carry cotton clothing in summers.

What are winters like in Haridwar?

Weather in winter is very unpredictable. The temperature varies from 10º C to 30º C. It is therefore advised to carry warm, woolen clothing as winters can get very cold here.

Which is the nearest airport to Haridwar?

The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Haridwar. It is 36 km away.

Which is the nearest railway station to Haridwar?

The Haridwar railway station is the closest to the main city. The railway station is just 600 meters away from the Maya Devi Temple and takes only 3 minutes to travel.

If you have any questions about the Maya Devi Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Rudraprayag

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Rudraprayag is the fourth among the five confluences of river Alaknanda (Panch Prayag). It observes the confluence of the river Alaknanda and Mandakini. The place maps in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Moreover, the place is elevated at a height of 895 metres.

The place of holy confluence flaunts its temples like Kedarnath Temple, Omkareshwara Shiva temple, Madmaheshwara Temple and Trijuginarayan temple.

Koteshwar Mahadev is a cave like temple present at a distance of 3 km from the fourth Prayag. Here, Lord Shiva once meditated on his way to Kedarnath.

Originating from Kedarnath, Holy Mandakini is the major river of the area. This place is also a famous pilgrimage destination on the route of the four holy Dham pilgrimage.

Chronicles of Rudraprayag

The first legend talks about the creation of Rudraprayag. The tale dots a mythological king named Putraka. Putraka is believed to have brought Rudraprayag to life using magic for his beloved wife Patali. Hence, the place was earlier known as Pataligram, in which ‘Gram’ stood for the village. Further, the city was Kedarnath ‘Patliputra‘ in the honour of Patali’s son.

There are also stories revolving around Ajatshatru, the king of Magadh. Beliefs are that around 490 BC Ajatshatru took up Rudrapur as his capital instead of Rajgarh. Apparently, he also fortified this place for the same. Moreover, Gautam Buddha also graced the place during his nearing time.

Chronicles of Rudraprayag
Sage Narada worshipped Lord Vishnu at Rudraprayag after which Lord Vishnu appeared before him.

Kedarkhand states that sage Narada worshipped Lord Shiva on one foot at this holy confluence. After which Lord Shiva appeared before him and gave him a Harp.

Essence of the Confluence

Rudraprayag is known after the Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva. There also stands a temple of Rudranath by the banks of the holy confluence. Also, the place is home to various Shiv temples other than Rudranath.

Essence of Rudraprayag
Rudraprayag is known after the Rudra form of Lord Shiva.

Rudraprayag also happens to be the spot where Pandavas came for repentance after killing their brothers in the battle of Mahabharat. Hereafter, they left for heaven.

The significance of Rudraprayag is that the name of this confluence has been derived from ‘Rudra‘, which is a form of Lord Shiva. Hence, one can spot many Shiva temples in the vicinity of Rudraprayag. As per epics, Lord Shiva appeared here to bless sage Narad.

Devotees often refer to the place as ‘Abode of the Gods’ because of its beauty and serenity. Moreover, Agastamuni is present at a distance of 18 km from Rudraprayag. Rishi Agastya meditated at Agastamuni for many years which added up religious significance to the place.

Ways to Reach Rudraprayag

Here’s how to reach Rudraprayag:

  • Air: The nearest airport to the holy confluence is Jolly Grant Airport. It stands 155.9 km away from Rudraprayag.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh railway station. It is at a distance of 140 km from the holy confluence.
  • Road: Rudraprayag is present on NH58. Hence, buses going from New Delhi to Badrinath, via Haridwar and Rishikesh pass through Rudraprayag.

Stays nearby Rudraprayag

Some of the places where one can stay near Rudraprayag while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Chopta Meadows: The place has got an ideal location along with a package of all the amenities to offer to its guests. Moreover, it’s also budget-friendly.
  • V Resorts Pauri: This resort is a perfect retreat for the devotees on the Char Dham Yatra. It’s available with all the modern amenities and is light on the guest’s budget.
  • Riverside Resorts: This place has got beautiful interiors and the perfect hilltop view. Also, guests can avail all the luxuries here.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

  • Vishnuprayag: Present 1372 metres above sea level, this is the first Prayag, as per the route of Alaknanda. It is 123.4 km away from Rudraprayag.
  • Nandaprayag: Mythology predicts the place to have been the capital of Yadu Kingdom in ancient times. It is the second confluence following Vishnuprayag. It is at a distance of 53.3 km from Rudraprayag.
  • Karnaprayag: This place observes the confluence of river Alaknanda and Pindar, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is third of the Panch Prayag. It is 33.2 km away from the fourth Prayag.
  • Devprayag: Placed at the last confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. This is the spot from where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow as Ganga or Ganges. It is at a distance of 67.3 km from Rudraprayag.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand

Frequently Asked Questions About Rudraprayag

Which rivers meet at the fourth Prayag?

Rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini meet at this place.

What is the best time to visit Rudraprayag?

The best time to visit this place is from March to October.

How much time is required to see around the place?

One might need at least 2-3 days to see around this place.

Read about Panch Prayag in Panch Prayag- Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand.

Karnaprayag

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Karnaprayag is among the five confluences of river Alaknanda (Panch Prayag). It is present at the point where both rivers namely, Alaknanda with Pindar unify. The meeting point of the two rivers is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. A string of peaks like Trisul, Drona Giri, Narad Ghunti, Mrigathuni and Maiktoli wrap around the place.

Devotees believe Karnaprayag to be the place where Karna of Mahabharata rigorously worshipped the Sun God. Moreover, it is a famous pilgrimage destination that falls in the holy pilgrimage of Char Dham Yatra.

Karnaprayag is third among the five holy confluences of Alaknanda river starting from Vishnuprayag. Also, other confluences of river Alaknanda surpassing it are Rudraprayag and Devprayag.

Making donations after taking bath at the Holy confluence is considered meritorious.

Chronicles of Karnaprayag

There are a few mythological tales that relate to Karnaprayag like:

The first tale highlights the confluence as the place where Karna worshipped the Sun god. Hence, the Sun god granted him an impregnable armour.

Chronicles of Karna Prayag
Sun God Giving Karna the impregnable armor

However, the second story foretells that after the use of Anjalika Astra on Karna. Krishna found that Arjuna had wounded him, however, Karna was still alive. Hence, Krishna told Arjuna that Dharma Devta or the Goddess of Righteousness protected Karna for the charities he did in his lifetime.

So to break through the protective shield, Krishna put up the disguise of a brahmin and went to Karna. Further, he asked Karna for all his abilities as a warrior in charity. Hence, being how he was Karna respected the Brahmin’s wishes and donated his blood to him along with all his skills.

Hereafter, Karna requested Krishna to cremate him in a land that was still virgin. Hence, beliefs are that in honour of Karna’s wish Krishna cremated him at Karnaprayag. Also, we have a temple on that land dedicated to the great warrior, Karna.

Essence of the Confluence

Karnaprayag has a holy essence to it. The place has a mythological attachment to the epic occurrence of Mahabharata. Hence, we have a temple dedicated to Karna by the banks of Karnaprayag. Moreover, the place also flaunts a famous Uma temple, dedicated to Goddess Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva. Furthermore, Sati’s reincarnation as Goddess Parvati is quite popular.

Essence of Karnaprayag
Temple dedicated to Karna at Karnaprayag.

Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated here along with Guru Turianand Ji and Akharanand Ji for eighteen days in a row. Moreover, Karnaprayag lies on the pathway of the major shrines of the Charm Dham Yatra namely, Badrinath and Kedarnath.

Apart from religious strings, Karnaprayag stands out for its lush green scenic beauty that captures every eye-crossing the Prayag. So, it affirms its positions as a major stop on the tour of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

Ways to Reach Karnaprayag

Different modes to reach Karnaprayag:

  • Air: Nearest airport, Jolly Grant is at a distance of 192 km.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. It is 172 km away from the place.
  • Bus: Buses to Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Hereafter, one can avail state as well as private transport for commuting to Karnaprayag.

Stays nearby Karnaprayag

Stays near Karnaprayag that devotees can hail during the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand are:

  • The Kedar Dev’s: The hotel offers a blend of all the modern facilities. Hotel rooms are given unique designs and have cozy interiors. Moreover, the rooms offer exclusive facilities and services.
  • Shri Krishna Palace Hotel and Restaurant: The hotel is set amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Moreover, it offers a comfortable and hygienic stay to its guests.
  • Hotel Riverview: Hotel River view offers comfortable accommodation with spic and span rooms. Also, the view from the rooms opens up to the soulful confluence.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

  • Vishnuprayag: Vishnuprayag is present 1372 metres above sea level and is the first Prayag falling on the route of river Alaknanda. It is 91 km away from Karnaprayag.
  • Nandaprayag: It is the second Prayag among the Panch Prayag. It is present at the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Nandakini. It is 20.9 km away from the Alaknanda-Pindar confluence.
  • Rudraprayag: It observes the confluence of river Alaknanda and Mandakini, in Uttarakhand. This place is at a height of 895 metres above sea level. Rudraprayag is the holy confluence number four starting from Vishnuprayag. It is 33.2 km away from Karnaprayag.
  • Devprayag: It maps the confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. Hereafter, the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow under the name Ganga or Ganges. It is 98.9 km away from Karnaprayag.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Karnaprayag

Which rivers collide and merge at Karnaprayag?

It is the place of merging of river Alaknanda and Pindar.

How much budget is required to visit the place?

The place can be visited easily in around a budget of 4k-5k.

What is the temperatures in this Prayag?

The temperatures in summer vary from 15°C-40°C, however, in winter temperature can fall down to 2°C.

Read about the whole five Prayag in Panch Prayag – Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand.

Hanuman Chatti Temple – Timings, Significance and History

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Hanuman Chatti is a Hindu temple that lies on the road to Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand. It is 286 km away from Rishikesh and is at a distance of 34 km from Joshimath. This temple is a dedication to Lord Hanuman.

Hanuman Chatti is located at the Sangam of rivers, Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna.

Moreover, the inspiration on behind the temple’s name lies in an interesting mythological event involving Hanuman and Bhima. It is one of the main attractions in the journey of Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand.

Hanuman Chatti Introduction
Lord Hanuman is the main diety of the temple.

Hanuman Chatti Temple – Facts

Temple Timings5 am – 12 pm
2 pm – 9 pm
Time Required for Darshan20 minutes
Entry FeeNo fee
Best Time To VisitMarch to June
Nearest AirportJolly Grant Airport
LocationUttarakhand

Timings of Hanuman Chatti Temple

The gates of the temple are open for devotees at the following timings –

DarshanOpen TimeClose Time
Morning5 am12 pm
Evening2 pm9 pm

Significance of Hanuman Chatti Temple

Hanuman Chatti might be really small temple yet it is significantly known for its natural surroundings and serene atmosphere. The temple provides a sense of peace to the devotees.

Significance of Hanuman Chatti
Yamunotri is a 10 km trek from Hanuman Chatti temple.

Moreover, the temple is located at the head of a very popular trekking destination i.e. Yamunotri. Moreover, it is considered supremely sacred place among the devotees of Lord Hanuman.

History of the Temple

The history of Hanuman Chatti dates back to the time of the encounter between Lord Hanuman and mighty Bhima at the spot where the temple resides at present. So, it all began with Draupadi’s demand for Saughandika flower.

Bhima set out on the search for the flower on the Gandhamadana peak. But drowned in his pride he killed numerous animals on his way. Hence, to break his glass-like pride Lord Hanuman decided to teach him a lesson.

On his way, Bhima encountered a monkey lying in the path with its tail spread out such that Bhima was unable to pass-through. Bhima, the mightiest of the Pandavas requested the monkey to move his tail aside and let him pass. Hereafter, the monkey complained about his inability to move due to old age.

Hence, hearing his reply Bhima started fuming with anger. Eventually, he began trying to move the monkey’s tail himself. However, giving several attempts to the task he failed to move the monkey’s tail. As a result, his pride was shattered to pieces.

History of Hanuman Chatti
Lord Hanuman and Bhim’s encounter prior to Kurukshetra war.

By this time, Bhima came to the realisation that there was something more than ordinary about the monkey. Hence, he requested the monkey to reveal his true identity. Hearing this, Lord Hanuman appeared before him in his true self.

After that, Lord Hanuman also blessed Bhim and assured him victory in the Kurukshetra war. Hence, the place became popular as ‘Hanuman Chatti’.

Second born of Kunti, Bhima was Lord Hanuman’s brother as he was born to Kunti after she invoked Vayu Devta.

Festivals Celebrated At Hanuman Chatti Temple

The main festival celebrated at Hanuman Chatti is:

  • Hanuman Jayanti: The day records the day of birth of Lord Hanuman. Hence, on this day devotees of Lord Hanuman flock to the temple to celebrate his birth and seek his blessings. Moreover, they also make offerings at the temple and receive the pious prasad. The day observes the devotees of Lord Hanuman singing Hanuman Chalisa. Moreover, devotees also read excerpts from Ramayana that remind of Lord Hanuman’s heroic deeds, devotion and bravery.

How To Reach Hanuman Chatti

Devotees can reach the temple by following modes of transport –

  • Air: Jolly Grant Airport present in Dehradun is nearest to the temple. It is 187.5 km away from this Hanuman temple.
  • Train: The nearest railway station to the temple is Rishikesh railway station. It is at a distance of 202.5 km from Hanuman Chatti.
  • Road: Buses are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Rishikesh. Hereafter, one can hire a taxi or use state transport buses to Hanuman Chatti.

Where to Stay near the temple

Some of the places fit for a stay near Hanuman Chatti while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • The Kedar Dev’s: The hotel offers a package of all the modern amenities. Moreover, the place is hygienic and budget-friendly. Also, the view from the hotel is breath-taking beautiful.
  • Narayan Palace Hotel: The hotel offers comfortable accommodation to its guests. Additionally, the rooms are fully carpeted and appointed with all modern amenities including satellite television and direct dial telephone. .
  • Jagirdar Guest House: The place offers tented accomodation and a budget stay. Guest can enjoy a breath-taking view of the great Himalayas and the luscious green mountains.

Other Temples near Hanuman Chatti

Some of the temples near Hanuman Chatti are:

  • Badrinath Temple: Badrinath is a small temple town located in Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Nevertheless, Badrinath Temple is also one of the shrines in the Char Dham pilgrimage in India. Moreover, the site is just 11.7 km away from Hanuman Chatti.
  • Bhavishya Badri: Ranked fourth among the ‘Sapt Badri’ temples. According to beliefs, Lord Badri will take abode in Bhavishya Badri at the end of Kaliyuga. It lies at a distance of 51.3 km from Hanuman Chatti.
  • Yogadhyan Badri: It ranks fifth among the ‘Sapt Badri’ temples. Hindu mythology states that the Pandavas were born here. Furthermore, it is also the place where Pandu attained salvation and died. Moreover, Yogadhyan Badri has a bronze image of Lord Vishnu in a state of meditation. This temple is 9 km away from Hanuman Chatti.
  • Dhyan Badri: It falls in the sixth position in the string of ‘Sapt Badri’ temples. It has an image of Lord Vishnu which was established by Urvarishi. Moreover, the image is four-armed and construction of black stone. Also, it portrays Vishnu in a meditative posture.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra destinations of Uttarakhand

Hemkund Sahib – Timings, Significance, and History

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Hemkund Sahib (Formerly Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji) is a Sikh place of worship in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The place is in devotion to the tenth Guru of Sikhism- Shri Guru Gobind Singh. Guru Ji has himself mentioned the place in his work ‘Dasam Granth‘.

Sri Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2019 | Live Darshan | Full of Snow

Hemkund Sahib is an important stop in the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Hemkund Sahib – Facts

Deity Shri Guru Gobind Singh
Location Chamoli district, Uttarakhand 249401
Best Time to Visit Summers (May – June)
Post Monsoon (September – mid-October)
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, Maghi

The name ‘Hemkund Sahib‘ comes from the words ‘Hem‘ meaning ‘Snow‘ and ‘Kund‘ meaning ‘reservoir or pond‘, hence meaning ‘The reservoir of snow‘. This is because the location of the pilgrimage site is amid the snow-capped Himalayas and the water of the ‘Kund’ in its front is as cold as snow.

It is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, the holiest pilgrimage in India.

Hemkund Sahib, formally known as Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji.

What are the timings of Hemkund Sahib?

Here are the timings:

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Hemkund Sahib?

The significance of the temple is that it is one of the most religiously important Sikh pilgrimage sites. As per beliefs, Lakshaman, the younger brother of Lord Ram meditated near the lake of Hemkund Sahib.

Hemkund Sahib Significance
Lakshaman, the younger brother of Lord Ram meditated near the lake of Hemkund Sahib.

Pilgrims cannot access the site from October to April due to harsh weather conditions. Pilgrims arrive in May and repair the damage of the path to Hemkund Sahib that occurred over the winter, which is traditionally popular as ‘Kar Seva‘ (selfless service), an important concept of Sikhism.

Due to its religious importance, it becomes an important stop in the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

What is the history of Hemkund Sahib?

According to the history of the temple, initially, local inhabitants built it under the name of ‘Lokpal‘ which means ‘the one who sustains people‘. Later, when the famous Sikh historian Bhai Santokh Singh narrated the tale of ‘Dusht Daman‘ and the place of worship or ‘Tapasthan‘.

Hemkund Sahib History 1
Bhai Santokh Singh narrated the tale of ‘Dusht Daman’.

However, Sant Sohan Singh of Tehri Garhwal discovered the present form of the temple. He visited the place with Baba Kartar Singh Bedi in 1934. Also, according to Pandit Tara Singh Narotam, it is one of the places where King Pandu meditated.

Moreover, the Dasam Granth says that God ordered Guru Gobind Singh to take birth while he was in deep meditation at the mount of Hemkund Sahib.

Hemkund Sahib History 2
God ordered Guru Gobind Singh to take birth while he was in deep meditation at the mount of Hemkund Sahib.

Festivals celebrated at Hemkund Sahib

Some of the festivals celebrated are:

  • Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: This is the day on which Guru Gobind Singh was born. Gurudwaras take out processions on this day. Moreover, people sing devotional songs during the procession and share sweets and a cold drink or a sharbat among adults and children.
  • Maghi: This day celebrates the martyrdom of the “Forty Immortals,” forty followers of Guru Gobind Singh who had previously deserted him. They fought bravely against overwhelming Mughal army forces and died. Later Guru Gobind Singh blessed them and said that they had attained ‘Mukti‘ or salvation.
Hemkund Sahib Festivals
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti and Maghi are the festivals celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Hemkund Sahib?

Here’s how to reach:

  • Air: Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun, 268 km from Hemkund Sahib is the nearest airport.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 189 km away.
  • Road: Buses are available from ISBT Kashmere gate to Rishikesh. From there one can reach Gobind Ghat via road and then trek to Hemkund Sahib.

Where to stay near Hemkund Sahib?

Some of the places where one can stay near while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. Backed by a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures that all needs of guests are fulfilled timely.
  • Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom with hot/cold running water facility and toiletries are available within all the 14 rooms in this two-floored accommodation.
  • Shri Krishna Palace Hotel: This accommodation in Chamoli features a multi-cuisine restaurant. Guests can avail services like room service, medical assistance, and laundry during their stay at the property.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the rooms.

What are some places to visit near Hemkund Sahib?

Some of the places one can visit near-by are:

  • Badrinath Temple: Badrinath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The majestic River Alaknanda flows beside the temple. Devotees believe that the statue of the Deity Lord Vishnu is Swayambhu in nature meaning that it is self-manifested.
  • Hanuman Chatti: The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Hanuman, and the temple derives its name from an interesting mythological event involving Hanuman and Bhima. Moreover, it is present at the head of a very popular trekking destination.
  • Narsingh Temple, Joshimath: It is an ancient temple for Lord Narshimna, the fourth incarnation of Vishnu. It is present in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is one of the 108 ‘Divya Deshams’ of Vishnu. Since the temple is a part of ‘Sapt Badri‘, it is also popular as Narsingh Badri Temple. This temple along with the Badrinath temple and Hanuman Chatti is a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.
  • Valley of Flowers: It is an Indian National Park present in the Western Himalayas in Uttarakhand. It is region rich in diversity of flora and fauna including rare and endangered species of plants and animals. This place also finds the reference in Hinduism because yogis are known to have visited the valley for meditation.
Hemkund Sahib Nearby

Frequently Asked Question about Hemkund Sahib

Who found Hemkund Sahib?

It was discovered by a Sikh soldier during a cartographic mission in 1930.

What is the best time to visit Hemkund Sahib?

The best time to go for Hemkund Sahib is in summers (May – June) and Post Monsoon (September – mid-October).

What is the height of Hemkund Sahib?

4,633 m is the height of Hemkund Sahib.

What is the opening date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019?

1st June 2019 is the opening date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019.

What is the closing date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019?

10th October 2019 is the opening date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019.

What is the trek duration for Hemkund Sahib?

3 days is the trek duration for Hemkund Sahib.

From which place the trek for Hemkund Sahib start from?

The place from where the trek for Hemkund Sahib start is Govindghat.

What is the trek distance of Hemkund Sahib?

19 km is the trek distance of Hemkund Sahib.

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