Chandrabadni Temple Uttarakhand

Chandrabadni Temple is one of the 11 famous Siddha Peeths in Uttarakhand, India. It is located about 22 km from Devprayag in the Tehri Garhwal district. This sacred temple is situated on the Chandrakut mountain at a height of about 2277 metres above sea level. Apart from its spiritual importance, the temple also offers stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas. Surrounded by trees like Kaafal, Buransh, and Devdar, the atmosphere around the temple feels magical and peaceful. It is believed that this is the place where Goddess Sati’s torso fell, and so it is called Chandrabadni Siddha Peeth. Unlike many other temples, there is no idol here. Instead, devotees worship a Sri Yantra carved on a flat stone shaped like a tortoise’s back. The temple also holds a secret annual worship ceremony that is known only to priests.

According to legends, Adi Jagatguru Shankaracharya established the Chandrabadni Temple. He was drawn to the power of the Sri Yantra and built the temple in ancient times. The temple is also referred to as Bhuvaneshwari Siddha Peeth in sacred texts like the Devi Bhagavat Purana, Skanda Purana, and even the Mahabharata. The story behind the temple is connected to the famous event when King Daksha organized a yagna but did not invite Lord Shiva. This insult deeply hurt Goddess Sati, who then gave up her life. Lord Shiva, in his grief and anger, began performing the Tandava (a powerful cosmic dance) with Sati’s body. As a result, parts of her body fell in different places, and this location marks where her torso fell. Many old statues and tridents are still found in the temple. There is also a mystery about the Sri Yantra here. It is said that no one can see it with bare eyes. Devotees and priests must cover their eyes with cloth while offering prayers. If anyone looks at it directly, they are believed to lose their sight. A large temple fair is also held every year in April, attracting many devotees.

Chandrabadni Temple is a major Shakti Peeth and a powerful place to worship Goddess Durga. Devotees visit throughout the year for fairs, festivals, and religious events. The temple is known for its special aarti performed with drums, cymbals, and a traditional instrument called Bhankora. People believe that if you pray to the Goddess with pure devotion, your wishes will be fulfilled. It is said that no one returns empty-handed from this sacred place. Though the temple is open all year round, it is better to avoid the rainy season because of its hilltop location.

The temple was once a simple stone structure, but now it has grown into a beautifully designed temple. It is built in the North Indian style of architecture. The temple stands at a height of about 7074 feet. At the entrance, there are stairs guarded by two lioness statues. Inside the temple, there are idols of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and other deities. The sanctum sanctorum is built in traditional Garhwali architecture with detailed carvings, making it a unique and holy site.

Devotees bring Chunri, fruits, coconuts, and incense sticks as offerings. As part of a vow, devotees tie a Chunri and untie it once their wish is fulfilled.

Chandrabadni Temple is well connected to major cities in Uttarakhand, Delhi, and other northern states. By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, about 122 km from the temple. From there, the temple is about 1 km uphill by foot or local transport.

By Train: There is no direct train to Devprayag. The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh (110 km) and Haridwar (130 km). From these stations, buses and taxis are available.

By Road: The best way to reach the temple is by road. Roads are well maintained, and transport is easily available. The nearest bus stand is in Devprayag, 33 km from the temple. You can take a taxi or local vehicle from there. From Delhi, buses to Devprayag are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate. You can also travel by private vehicle from nearby cities for convenience.