Chaiti Bala Sundari Temple

Chaiti Bala Sundari Temple, also known as Chaiti Temple, is a famous temple located in Kashipur, in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, India. It is also referred to as Jwala Devi Temple and Ujjayini Devi Temple. The name Ujjayini Devi Temple comes from the ancient Ujjain Fort located near Dron Sagar in Kashipur. The temple has religious and historical importance dating back to the time of the Mahabharata. It is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. In ancient times, this area was known as Govishaan. Every year, during the Spring Navaratri festival, a huge fair called the Chaiti Mela is held at this temple, attracting thousands of pilgrims who come to seek blessings from Goddess Durga.

According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva was roaming the world carrying the body of Goddess Sati, a part of her body fell at this place, leading to the formation of this Shakti Peeth. The temple also has a story connected to the Mughal era. During Aurangzeb’s rule, two spiritual men, Gaya Deen and Bandi Deen, felt a divine power while passing through this area. When they searched the place, they discovered a sacred spot and requested permission to build a temple. However, Aurangzeb refused. At the same time, Aurangzeb’s sister Jahanara became seriously ill. Despite several treatments, she was not cured. One night, the Goddess appeared in a dream to Jahanara in the form of a child and told her that if her brother rebuilt the temple, she would be healed. Jahanara told Aurangzeb about the dream, and he agreed to renovate the temple. This is why the temple’s top portion has a mosque-like dome, which still remains as a symbol of this story.

The temple holds deep spiritual importance. Every year, in the Hindu month of Chaitra, a grand fair called the Chaiti Mela is organized. Lakhs of devotees visit the temple during this time to pray and seek blessings. It is believed that the Goddess resides in the temple during this time and removes the sufferings of all her devotees.

The temple complex is unique in its design. Besides Bala Sundari, the temple also has shrines for Lord Shiva, Brijpuri Devi, Bhagvati Lalita, Bhairav, and Kali. There is no idol of the Goddess in the main sanctum. Instead, her right arm is symbolically represented on a stone, and that is worshipped by devotees. In the temple courtyard, there is a special Kadamb tree that is hollow inside but full of green branches and leaves. This tree is believed to be a symbol of the Goddess’s presence and blessings.

Devotees offer coconuts, scarves, fruits, flowers, and flower garlands at the temple. In the past, animal sacrifice was a part of the tradition, but now only coconuts are offered instead.

The temple is well connected by air, rail, and road. By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which is around 60 km from the temple. From the airport, you can take a cab or taxi to reach the temple.

By Train: The closest railway station is Kashipur Railway Station, located about 3.8 km from the temple. Taxis and autos are available from the station.

By Road: The temple is approximately 2.8 km from Kashipur Bus Stand on the Kashipur–Bazpur Road. Buses and shared autos are available from nearby towns and cities. You can also drive your own vehicle to the temple easily.