Things Covered
Dhari Devi Temple is one of Uttarakhand’s most revered Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Kali in her guardian form. Situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River near Srinagar (Pauri Garhwal), the temple is known for its powerful divine presence and unique traditions. Surrounded by mountains and flowing river waters, this temple holds deep spiritual importance for devotees who believe that Goddess Dhari Devi protects the entire Garhwal region. Its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and ancient stories make it a must-visit pilgrimage site for anyone traveling in Uttarakhand.
The Dhari Devi Temple is one of the most sacred Shakti Sthals of Uttarakhand, dedicated to Goddess Kali’s Ugra Swaroop (Dhara Devi). The temple is believed to protect the Garhwal region and is often called the “Guardian Deity of Uttarakhand.”
Ancient Origins
According to local legends, a massive flood once hit the Alaknanda River, and the idol of the goddess was carried downstream. Villagers heard divine cries from the river near Kalyasaur, and upon retrieving the idol, they established the temple at the exact spot where it “refused to move further.”
Since then, the goddess has been worshipped at this location.
Upper & Lower Part Legend
The idol of Dhari Devi is worshipped only as the upper torso of the goddess.
The lower part is worshipped at Kalimath Temple, near Ukhimath.
Together, they represent the complete form of Goddess Kali.
This is why Dhari Devi is believed to be extremely powerful and protective.
Protector of Garhwal Region
Locals believe that calamities reduce when Maa Dhari Devi is pleased, but ignoring her warnings can bring misfortune.
This belief became more widespread after certain events surrounding the temple reconstruction, strengthening her identity as “Garhwal ki Rakshak Devi.”
Temple Structure & Unique Identity
- The temple stands on a rock platform in the middle of the Alaknanda River.
- During monsoon, the rising water surrounds the temple, giving it a floating appearance.
- The goddess’s expression is said to change—calm in the morning and fierce by evening.
No Idol Change Tradition
The idol is not replaced or reshaped, unlike in many temples.
It is believed that the form of the goddess itself transforms naturally over time, maintaining her original divine essence.
Faith & Pilgrimage
Thousands of devotees visit the temple every year, seeking blessings for protection, strength, and spiritual upliftment.
It is also an important stopover for yatris traveling toward Badrinath, Kedarnath, and other Char Dham sites.
Dhari Devi Temple Uttarakhand Location
Dhari Devi Temple is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River, near Srinagar in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The temple lies along the Srinagar–Badrinath Highway (NH-7), making it easily accessible for pilgrims traveling towards the Char Dham route. It is approximately 13 km from Srinagar, 19 km from Rudraprayag, and around 100 km from Rishikesh, offering a scenic and peaceful stop for devotees.
Dhari Devi Temple Distance from Srinagar Garhwal
Dhari Devi Temple is located approximately 13 km from Srinagar Garhwal. The road leading to the temple offers scenic views of the Alaknanda River and the surrounding mountains, making it a quick yet beautiful drive.
Dhari Devi Temple Distance from Rudraprayag
The temple is around 19–20 km from Rudraprayag town. Pilgrims often visit Dhari Devi on their way to Kedarnath or Badrinath, as it falls directly on the route.
Map Reference For Dhari Devi Temple
Approximate latitude / longitude of Dhari Devi Temple: 30.2581° N, 78.8774° E.
On many maps, the temple is labelled around Kalyasaur village / Kaliyasaud — the temple is located in/near this village along the highway.
The temple sits on a small rock/island on the banks of Alaknanda River, accessible by a short walkway from the highway.
How to Reach Dhari Devi Temple
1. By Road (Most Convenient Option)
Dhari Devi Temple is easily accessible by road.
Dhari Devi Temple is about 100 km from Rishikesh, and the drive takes around 3–4 hours via the scenic route Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar Garhwal → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur). The highway runs along the Alaknanda River, offering beautiful mountain views throughout. Regular GMOU/UTC buses from Rishikesh going towards Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Badrinath drop visitors at Kalyasaur/Kaliyasaud, from where the temple is just a 500–600 meter walk across a pedestrian bridge. You can also hire a private taxi from Rishikesh for a comfortable trip with the option to stop at Devprayag on the way.
Dhari Devi Temple is located about 125 km from Haridwar, and you can reach it in around 4–5 hours via the smooth and scenic route Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar Garhwal → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur). The journey follows the Alaknanda River for most of the way, offering beautiful valley views. Regular UTC & GMOU buses from Haridwar towards Rishikesh → Srinagar → Rudraprayag stop at Kalyasaur/Kaliyasaud, from where the temple is a 500–600 meter walk across a pedestrian bridge. Private taxis are also easily available for a comfortable and flexible trip.
Dhari Devi Temple is approximately 140 km from Dehradun, and the journey takes around 4–5 hours via the scenic mountain route Dehradun → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar Garhwal → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur). The drive offers continuous views of the Alaknanda River and the Garhwal hills. Regular UTC/GMOU buses from Dehradun (via Rishikesh) towards Srinagar → Rudraprayag drop passengers at Kalyasaur/Kaliyasaud, from where the temple is just a 500–600 meter walk across a pedestrian bridge. Taxis are also available from Dehradun for a more comfortable and flexible trip.
Dhari Devi Temple is only 13 km from Srinagar Garhwal, making it the closest major town to the shrine. The route is quick and scenic: Srinagar Garhwal → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur), and it takes just 20–30 minutes by road. Local buses, shared taxis, and private vehicles travel frequently on this stretch of NH-7. Visitors can get down at Kalyasaur/Kaliyasaud, and from the highway, the temple is just a 500–600 meter walk across a well-built pedestrian bridge over the Alaknanda River.
Dhari Devi Temple is located about 19–20 km from Rudraprayag, and the journey takes only 30–40 minutes via the smooth highway route Rudraprayag → Agastyamuni → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur). Shared jeeps, local buses, and private taxis run frequently on this road, making travel easy for pilgrims heading toward Srinagar or Badrinath. Get down at Kalyasaur/Kaliyasaud, and from the highway, the temple is just a 500–600 meter walk across a pedestrian bridge built over the Alaknanda River.
Dhari Devi Temple is located about 340–350 km from Delhi, and it takes roughly 9–10 hours to reach by road. The most common and smooth route is: Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar Garhwal → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur). Travelers can also take a bus from Delhi ISBT (Kashmiri Gate) to Haridwar or Rishikesh, and from there, board a connecting bus or taxi toward Srinagar Garhwal. The nearest drop point is Kalyasaur/Kaliyasaud, from where the temple is a 500–600 meter walk across a pedestrian bridge. Private cars and outstation taxis are also a comfortable option for this long but scenic journey.
Regular buses, shared taxis, and private vehicles run on this route daily.
2. By Bus
You can take a GMOU / UTC bus from:
- Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun heading towards Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Joshimath, or Badrinath.
Get down at Kalyasaur / Kaliyasaud stop (near the temple). From there, the temple is walking distance.
3. By Train
Dhari Devi Temple does not have a direct railway station. The nearest major stations are:
- Rishikesh Railway Station (Approx. 115–120 km)
This is the nearest and most convenient railway station for reaching Dhari Devi Temple. Regular taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh toward Srinagar Garhwal. - Haridwar Junction (Approx. 135–140 km)
Haridwar is a major railway hub with better connectivity than Rishikesh. Many travelers arrive here first and then take a bus or taxi via Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar. - Dehradun Railway Station (Approx. 150–155 km)
Dehradun is also a well-connected station. From here, travelers can reach Rishikesh first and then continue towards Dhari Devi Temple by road.
After reaching the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
4. By Air (Nearest Airport)
The nearest airport is:
The nearest airport to Dhari Devi Temple is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located about 120–125 km away.
This airport has regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Lucknow.
From the airport, you can reach the temple by taking the route:
Jolly Grant Airport → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar Garhwal → Dhari Devi Temple (Kalyasaur)
The travel time by taxi is around 4–5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
From the airport, taxis are easily available to reach Dhari Devi Temple via Rishikesh → Srinagar route.
5. Last Mile Walk to the Temple
Vehicles stop on the highway near the temple gate. From there, you need to walk:
- About 500–600 meters on a well-built walkway/bridge over the Alaknanda River.
This short walk gives beautiful views of the flowing river and mountains.
Nearest Bus Stand to Dhari Devi Temple
The nearest bus stop for Dhari Devi Temple is at Kalyasaur (also spelled Kaliyasaud) village, which is just a short 500–600 meter walk from the temple entrance.
- From Srinagar Garhwal: 13 km → frequent buses and shared taxis are available.
- From Rudraprayag: 19–20 km → buses and jeeps operate regularly.
- From Rishikesh/Haridwar/Dehradun: You can take GMOU/UTC buses toward Srinagar or Rudraprayag and get down at Kalyasaur.
Dhari Devi Temple Photos
Best Time to Visit Dhari Devi Temple
The best time to visit Dhari Devi Temple is from October to June, when the weather is pleasant and the Himalayan roads remain clear. These months offer comfortable temperatures, scenic river views, and safe travel conditions.
- October to February (Winter):
Cool and peaceful weather, ideal for darshan. Light winter clothing is recommended. - March to June (Spring–Summer):
Pleasant climate with clear skies. Perfect for combining the visit with nearby destinations like Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag. - July to September (Monsoon):
Not recommended due to heavy rainfall in the Garhwal region, which may cause landslides and roadblocks along the Alaknanda valley.
Festivals Celebrated at Dhari Devi Temple
Dhari Devi Temple celebrates several important festivals rooted in Garhwal traditions and Hindu culture. During these occasions, the temple becomes vibrant with devotional chants, special pujas, and large gatherings of devotees.
1. Navratri (Chaitra & Sharad Navratri)
Navratri is the most significant festival at Dhari Devi Temple. Special prayers, Aarti, and Shakti pujas are performed for nine days. Devotees from all over Uttarakhand visit during this period.
2. Durga Puja / Vijayadashami
Following Navratri, Vijayadashami (Dussehra) is celebrated with great devotion. The temple atmosphere is energetic, and special rituals are conducted to honor Goddess Durga’s victory over evil.
3. Diwali
During Diwali, the temple is beautifully lit with lamps, and evening aarti feels especially divine. Devotees offer prayers for prosperity and protection.
4. Kartik Purnima
This is another auspicious day when the temple sees a higher number of pilgrims. Special offerings and rituals are performed.
5. Makar Sankranti
A sacred day for bathing in the Alaknanda River and offering prayers at the temple. Locals visit in large numbers to seek blessings for new beginnings.
6. Uttarakhand Garhwali Festivals
- Harela
Celebrated in Garhwal as a festival of greenery, farming, and new harvest. - Ghee Sankranti / Olgia
A pure Garhwali festival where people eat ghee-roti and farmers give gifts to their artisans. - Phool Dei
Girls decorate doorsteps with flowers; considered a festival of prosperity in Garhwal. - Hill Jatra
Unique to Pithoragarh & some Garhwal parts; linked to agriculture & livestock. - Anduri Utsav
Celebrated in Dayara Bugyal (Uttarkashi) with folk dance, local culture, and village rituals. - Basant Panchami
Schools & villages in Garhwal celebrate with local rituals to welcome spring. - Kandali Festival
Celebrated once in 12 years in the Niti Valley (Chamoli, Garhwal). - Ramman Festival (UNESCO Heritage)
A unique Garhwali festival celebrated in Saloor-Dungra village, Chamoli. Involves masked dances & rituals.
Places to Visit Near Dhari Devi Temple
1. Kedarnath Temple
One of the holiest Shiva temples and a major Char Dham pilgrimage. Surrounded by the majestic Kedarnath valley and snow-covered peaks.
2. Tungnath Temple
The highest Shiva temple in the world and part of Panch Kedar. A scenic 4–5 km trek from Chopta, perfect for spiritual and adventure seekers.
3. Koteshwar Mahadev Temple
A natural cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the banks of the Alaknanda River.
4. Augustmuni
A peaceful spiritual stop known for the temple of Rishi Parashuram and en route destination for Kedarnath.
Kamleshwar Mahadev Temple Srinagar Garhwal
One of the oldest temples in Garhwal, believed to be where Lord Rama meditated. A must-visit for devotees.
Maletha
A historically rich village known for the legendary “Maletha Canal” built by Madho Singh Bhandari. A peaceful cultural spot close to Srinagar.
HNB Garhwal University
Scenic viewpoints, local eateries, and riverfront spots make Srinagar Garhwal a pleasant nearby stop.
1. Tehri Lake
One of Asia’s largest man-made lakes, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities like boating, jet skiing, banana ride, and speed boating.
2. New Tehri Town
A planned hill town overlooking the Tehri Dam and the massive reservoir. Offers amazing Himalayan and lake views.
3. Tehri Dam Viewpoint
One of the tallest dams in the world. A popular stop for tourists to see the huge engineering marvel and surrounding mountains.
4. Chamba
A beautiful hill town near Tehri offering serene landscapes, fruit orchards, and views of the snow-capped peaks. A calm stop on the Tehri–Mussoorie route.
5. Kanatal
A peaceful offbeat destination close to Tehri. Perfect for camping, valley views, forest walks, and photography.
6. Dhanaulti
A hill station known for Eco Park, tranquil forests, and pleasant weather. Popular for camping and weekend trips near Tehri.
7. Surkanda Devi Temple
Located near Dhanaulti. A Shakti Peeth reached via a short but steep trek. Offers 360° Himalayan views.
Pooja, Darshan Timings of Dhari Devi Temple
The Dhari Devi Temple follows fixed daily darshan hours, allowing devotees to visit in the morning and evening. Below are the accurate and visitor-friendly timings:
Morning Darshan & Pooja Timings
6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
During this time, the temple opens for morning darshan, aarti, and general worship rituals.
Evening Darshan & Pooja Timings
2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Devotees can attend evening aarti and offer prayers during this period.
Important Tips for Visitors
- Midday break: The temple remains closed from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
- Aarti timings may vary slightly during festivals, special pooja, and crowded days.
- Morning time is considered the best for peaceful darshan.
FAQs About Dhari Devi Temple
Where Exactly is Dhari Devi Temple Located?
Dhari Devi Temple is located in Kalyasaur village on the banks of the Alaknanda River, between Srinagar (Garhwal) and Rudraprayag in Uttarakhand.
What is the Nearest Bus Stand to Dhari Devi Temple?
Srinagar Garhwal Bus Stand, located about 15 km from the temple, is the closest major bus stand.
What Dhari Devi Temple Timings ?
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM (daily).
Why is Dhari Devi Temple Famous?
Dhari Devi Temple is famous for its ancient guardian goddess of Uttarakhand, unique riverfront location on the Alaknanda, and its strong spiritual and cultural significance in the Garhwal region.
