
The Garjiya Devi Temple is one of the most ancient temples of Uttarakhand. Located amidst the Kosi River, the temple is devoted to Goddess Garjiya Devi. Garjiya means the daughter of Himalayas and is another name of Parvati. The impressive Garjiya Devi Temple is located in Garjiya village at a distance of nearly 14 km from Ramnagar and outside Jim Corbett National Park.
Goddess Parvati, the real epitome of a woman’s power in spirituality, is one of the most adored and enigmatic Goddesses. Located in the Garjiya village, the Garjiya Devi Temple houses Garjiya Devi as the main deity. The temple is located on a rock, which can be reached after climbing some stairs. The Kosi river beside it provides an amazing treat that attracts everyone. According to the legend, the whole area was covered with dense forests earlier and Devi’s idol moved to its present location following a flood in the Kosi river. God Shiva spotted Goddess floating on water and then asked her to stay there with him. Goddess Garjiya Devi agreed to Shiva’s request and then her idol was spotted on the top of a rock by the villagers. Later on, a temple was constructed there and devoted to Goddess Garjiya Devi. Another major belief behind this temple is that the shrine doesn’t submerge in the water even in cases of heavy floods. It has stayed at the same place for ages without getting affected by any calamity. There are many other idols in this temple including Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, Goddess Saraswati, Lord Ganesha, and Baba Bairon. Baba Bhairon is worshipped just after the Devi as it’s believed that the Devi will bless her devotees only if they worship Baba Bhairon. A big fair is organized on Kartik Purnima in this temple which attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims every year. Next time, you’re in the area, do give a visit to this small temple of Garjiya Devi, surrounded by greenery and lined by the wonderful Kosi river.