The Durga Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the powerful goddess Durga. Many people from around the world visit it because it’s famous and respected. It was built in the 18th century with the support of Maharaja Pancha Vanshi of Tehri Garhwal, and it showcases beautiful Hindu architecture.
The temple is an important historical and beautiful place, making it one of the most popular attractions in the Kotdwar. Its design is timeless and makes people feel amazed and appreciative, showing the skill and dedication of ancient craftsmen.
The Durga Devi Temple is in Dugadda, Kotdwar and is a great place for those who want a mix of spirituality and nature. It’s an old temple dedicated to Goddess Durga and is located in the calm and untouched forests. This place is just 30 KM away from the famous Jim Corbett National Park.
Location of the Durga Devi temple
The Durga Devi Temple is near Kotdwar, situated on the Kotdwar-Dugadda road in Pauri Garhwal. It takes around half an hour to reach the temple from Kotdwar city.
The temple is in a beautiful spot, gracefully placed on the banks of the Ramganga River and surrounded by a thick, lush forest. People who visit the temple get to see amazing views of the river and the untouched jungle, creating a peaceful and nature-connected atmosphere. The Durga Devi Temple is famous for its grandeur and the stunning beauty seen in its architecture.
Architecture of the temple
The temple is situated on the banks of Ramganga River, surrounded by a thick forest. It has a special style of architecture, following the Kumaoni tradition. They made the temple using white stone and added detailed carvings on the walls and pillars.
Inside the temple, there’s a small courtyard where people can pray to the Goddess. A significant part of the temple is a statue showing Goddess Durga with other deities, Lord Shiva, and some other deities.
Entry Fee and Timings
Timing: The Durga Devi Temple is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
Best time to visit: The ideal time to explore the temple is from November to June.
Exploration Time required: Plan for approximately 1 hour to fully experience the beauty and spirituality of the temple.
History of the temple
The exact beginning of the Durga Devi Temple, which is more than 1,000 years old, is not clear. Between the 7th and 11th centuries, the Katyuri Dynasty ruled this area. As per legends the kings from that dynasty used to visit the temple regularly, asking for the blessings of Goddess Durga before going hunting or entering battles.
Mythological significance of the temple
In Hinduism, Goddess Durga represents power and femininity. People see her as the mother of the universe, protecting and granting the wishes of her followers. The temple is built right where Goddess Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura, bringing peace to the troubled area.
The local people highly respect the temple, considering it a sacred place. Every year, thousands of devotees visit. People believe that if you come to the temple with pure intentions, the Goddess will make your sincere wishes come true.
Festivals & events at Durga Devi Temple
The Durga Devi Temple is a lively place, hosting various celebrations all year round. One of the most important festivals is Navratri, celebrated with a lot of excitement. During Navratri, the temple is decorated with colorful flowers and lights, creating a joyful atmosphere. There are also music and dance performances that can be heard throughout the area.
Apart from Navratri, Diwali and Holi are also celebrated joyfully in the temple. What makes Navratri special is the fair organized by the temple, where local artists can display and sell their handmade crafts and souvenirs. This not only makes the celebrations more cultural but also brings the community together at the temple.
How to reach Durga Devi temple
Address – Durga Devi Temple, Anmol Nagar, Dugadda, Uttarakhand 246127, India
Latitude – 29.8049° N, Longitude – 78.6059° E
The Durga Devi Temple is conveniently located only 11 kilometers from Kotdwar City, making Kotdwar the nearest transportation hub. The closest bus stand is in Kotdwar, about 11 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is also Kotdwar, situated at a similar distance of 11 kilometers.
For air travel, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 105 kilometers from the temple.
- Nearest Bus stand Kotdwar (11 KM)
- Nearest Railway Station Kotdwar (11 KM)
- Nearest Airport Jollygrant, Dehradun (105KM)
Apart from the Durga Devi temple, Jim Corbett National Park has several other temples that are interesting for tourists. Some of the notable ones include the Garjiya Devi Temple, Shri Hanuman Dham Temple, and Sitabani Temple. These temples add to the cultural and spiritual richness of the region.
FAQ about Durga Devi temple, Kotdwar
The temple is near Kotdwar, situated on the Kotdwar-Dugadda road in Pauri Garhwal. It takes around half an hour to reach the temple from Kotdwar city. Nearest transportation hubs include Kotdwar Bus Stand (11 KM), Kotdwar Railway Station (11 KM), and Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (105 KM).
The temple, situated on the banks of the Ramganga River, follows the Kumaoni tradition. It is constructed using white stone with intricate carvings on walls and pillars. Inside, there’s a small courtyard for prayers and a significant statue of Goddess Durga with other deities.
The temple is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm. There is no entry fee for visitors.
The ideal time to explore the temple is from November to June. Plan for approximately 1 hour to fully experience the beauty and spirituality of the temple.
The exact beginning, more than 1,000 years old, is unclear. However, it was frequented by Katyuri Dynasty kings between the 7th and 11th centuries. The temple is built where Goddess Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura, bringing peace to the area.
Yes, the Durga Devi Temple hosts various celebrations throughout the year, with Navratri being the most significant. Diwali and Holi are also celebrated. Navratri includes a fair where local artists showcase and sell their handmade crafts and souvenirs.
