Kuteti Devi Temple, Uttarkashi

Kuteti Devi Temple is a famous Hindu shrine located in the town of Uttarkashi in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her form as Kuteti Devi, who is believed to be the protector of the town and its people. The temple is situated on a hill overlooking the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

History of Kuteti Devi Temple:

The history of Kuteti Devi Temple dates back to the 8th century when the temple was built by the King of Uttarkashi. According to legend, the King was advised by a sage to build the temple to protect the town from natural disasters and other calamities. The temple has undergone several renovations over the centuries, with the most recent one being carried out in 1979.

Architecture of Kuteti Devi Temple:

The Kuteti Devi Temple is built in the traditional Himalayan architectural style, with wooden pillars, intricate carvings, and a sloping roof. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful garden and a flight of stairs leading to the entrance. Inside the temple, there is a small sanctum sanctorum where the idol of Kuteti Devi is placed. The idol is made of black stone and is adorned with gold ornaments and silk clothes.

Festivals Celebrated at Kuteti Devi Temple:

The temple is a hub of activity during the festival of Navratri, which is celebrated with great fervor and devotion. Navratri is a nine-day festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. During this festival, devotees from all over Uttarkashi and the neighboring areas throng the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Kuteti Devi. The temple also hosts a fair during Navratri, where local traders sell a variety of goods, including handicrafts, clothes, and sweets.

How to Reach Kuteti Devi Temple:

Kuteti Devi Temple is located in Uttarkashi, which is well connected by road to other parts of Uttarakhand. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 150 km from Uttarkashi. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, which is about 170 km from Uttarkashi. From Haridwar, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Uttarkashi. There are also regular bus services from Dehradun and Rishikesh to Uttarkashi.

Kuteti Devi Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Uttarkashi. The temple's serene surroundings, beautiful architecture, and rich history make it an ideal place to seek spiritual solace and connect with the divine. Whether you are a believer or not, a visit to Kuteti Devi Temple is an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.