Overview: Virbhadra Temple is located in Rishikesh and is a sacred spot dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple houses small statues of various deities, including Nandi, Hanuman, Shivling, and Mata. It is well-known for its frequent Hawan ceremonies, attracting devotees throughout the year. The temple becomes especially lively during Maha Shivratri, drawing large crowds. During regular days, however, it remains peaceful and less crowded. This makes it an ideal place for those seeking a spiritual experience amidst calm surroundings, except during special events when the atmosphere is vibrant and festive.
Virbhadra Temple Timings
Summer Sunrise: During the summer months (April to September), the sunrise at Kunjapuri Temple usually occurs between 5:15 AM and 5:45 AM, depending on the time of year.
Winter Sunrise: In the winter months (October to March), sunrise is later, occurring between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM.
Virbhadra Temple Location
Kunjapuri Temple Trek Guide
The one-day hike to Kunjapuri Temple starts from Tapovan and spans 7-8 km of steep climb, taking approximately 5-6 hours to complete. Along the way, trekkers pass through the serene Bhadra Village and a hidden waterfall, perfect for a refreshing break. The trek offers a mix of adventure and tranquility, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty. At the summit, the temple rewards visitors with panoramic views of Tapovan, Rishikesh, and the majestic Garhwal Himalayan peaks. This immersive journey makes the Kunjapuri trek a perfect blend of spiritual experience and nature exploration, ideal for adventure enthusiasts and peace seekers alike.
Kunjapuri Temple Height
Kunjapuri Temple is situated at an elevation of 1,645 meters (5,397 feet) above sea level. This elevated position offers stunning views of the surrounding Garhwal Himalayas and the holy town of Rishikesh. The temple’s height adds to its spiritual significance and makes it an ideal trekking destination.
Kunjapuri Devi Temple History
Kunjapuri Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is one of the 13 Shakti Peethas in the Shivalik range. It holds special significance as one of the three Shakti Peethas in Tehri district, along with Surkanda Devi and Chandrabadni. According to the Skandpuran, the temple marks the spot where the upper part of Goddess Sati’s body (Kunja) fell when Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to divide her body into 52 parts. This sacred event led to the creation of powerful centers of worship across India, including Kunjapuri. The temple was later established by Jagadguru Shankaracharya, making it a revered site for pilgrims and devotees.
Opening Timings of Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Kunjapuri Temple generally opens between 5:00 AM and 6:30 PM in both summer and winter. However, during the winter season, the timings might slightly differ due to the cold weather, with the temple closing around 6:00 PM. It is always best to visit early morning for a peaceful experience.
How to reach Kunjapuri temple from Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Temple is located approximately 25 km from Rishikesh. You can reach the temple by your own vehicle or hire a taxi. The drive offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and valley. The road is well-maintained, making it a pleasant journey.
Narendra Nagar to Kunjapuri Temple
Haridwar to Kunjapuri Temple Distance
How is Road from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri temple during Monsoons
The road from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri Temple is generally in good condition throughout the year, including during the monsoon season. While the road is quite manageable in both summer and winter, there can occasionally be minor disruptions due to rainfall. Landslides may occur, but they are usually small and not severe. These occasional disruptions do not significantly affect travel, and the road is cleared quickly. Always exercise caution while traveling during heavy rains, but overall, the route remains accessible.