Chitai Golu Devta Temple Almora

Uttarakhand, a state nestled in the Himalayas and known as Devbhoomi or the Land of the Gods, is home to many miraculous temples. One such revered temple is the Chitai Golu Devta Temple. Located about 8 kilometres from Almora city, this temple is dedicated to Golu Devta, the God of Justice. Devotees from across the country and the world visit this temple to seek justice and blessings. The temple complex is filled with thousands of letters and petitions submitted to Golu Devta. It is believed that he grants justice to those who are unheard elsewhere. As a symbol of their fulfilled prayers, devotees hang bells in the temple. These bells, in countless numbers, now adorn the entire temple, making it a sight to behold.

The Chitai Golu Devta Temple was built in the 12th century by a commander in the Chand dynasty. Over the years, the temple has been renovated by various kings. According to legend, King Jhalurai of the Katyuri dynasty had no children. On the advice of an astrologer, he worshipped Lord Bhairav. Impressed with his penance, Bhairav blessed him with a son and told him that he himself would take birth through Jhalurai’s eighth queen. During a hunting trip, Jhalurai met a meditating woman named Kalinga, fell in love, and married her. When she gave birth, the other jealous queens swapped the child with a stone and abandoned the baby in a lake. A fisherman found and raised him. Later, the boy confronted King Jhalurai by saying, "If you think giving water to a wooden horse is foolish, then how can a woman give birth to a stone?" This opened the king’s eyes. He realised the truth, accepted the boy, and punished the guilty queens, though he later forgave them. The boy grew into a just ruler and became popular as Golu Devta, the god of justice. His siblings are Kalva Devta (a form of Bhairav) and Garh Devi (a form of Shakti). Golu Devta is also worshipped as the Kul Devta in many villages of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand.

The Chitai Golu Devta Temple is considered a court of divine justice. Devotees who feel wronged or unheard by earthly means come here and submit letters or petitions. It is believed that Golu Devta listens and provides justice. Devotees often write on plain or stamp paper and leave their petitions at the temple. Once their wishes are fulfilled, they return to offer bells as a token of gratitude. The faith in Golu Devta’s power to deliver justice is so strong that lakhs of people visit every month.

The temple is perched on a hill and surrounded by dense pine and mimosa forests. It is built in traditional Kumaoni style. Inside, the idol of Golu Devta is shown as a horseback warrior, wearing a white turban and holding a bow and arrow. The serene atmosphere and natural surroundings make it a peaceful and spiritual retreat.

Devotees offer white clothes, turbans, and white shawls along with prasad that includes ghee, milk, curd, halwa, puri, and pakoras.

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located approximately 135 kilometers away in Udham Singh Nagar district. Taxis and buses are available to reach Almora and the temple.

By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest railhead, situated about 94 kilometers from the temple. Trains from major cities of India are available to Kathgodam.

By Road: Almora is well connected by road to cities like Delhi and other parts of northern India. Buses from ISBT Delhi regularly ply to Almora. You can also travel by private vehicle.