Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Almora - Symbol of faith and justice

Chitai Golu Devta Temple is one of the eminent temples of India situated at Kumaon region’s Almora in the state of Uttarakhand. Golu Devta is also known as Gaur Bhairav, a famous form of Lord Shiva. The temple’s deity is called God of Justice, as people believe that Golu Devta does justice to everyone. People used to write letters to God and hang them in different places in the temple. People who cannot come to the temple post their letters, and the temple’s authority hangs them. People who don’t have any problem write their wishes on the latter. When they get justice, their problems become solved, or their wishes come true, they hang a bell in the temple.

Attraction

It has been believed that Golu Devta gives justice to his devotees. If someone feels something unfair happens to them, they make a written complaint in the temple, and thousands of people claim that they got justice after posting the letter. Most of the letters are about court cases. Those who need a satisfactory result in the court come to Golu Devta for justice. And those who don’t have any case just put their wishes in the letter. In the temple, you will notice deeds of the land, court papers, and stamp papers. Venerators also tie their Marriage invitation cards in the temple. People from India come to the temple with their indictment and pray to God—people who are unable to send their letters by mail. Even people from other countries come to the temple with their indictments. When they get justice, or their wishes come true, they hang a bell in the temple. Millions of bells all over the temple prove that they have their desires. If you believe in the divine power, it is a great chance to visit the temple and make a wish.

Instead, you will love the hillside view of the temple and the peaceful nature of the temple.

History

According to a prevalent story about Chitai Golu Devta Temple, a king once went hunting. In the jungle, he felt thirsty and sent one of his servants to find water. The servant disturbed a lady who was in her meditation. The king reached out and became fond of the lady, giving her a marriage proposal. When he returned to his palace with the new queen, other queens got jealous of her.
A new queen became pregnant and gave birth to a son. But the other queen replaced the boy’s baby with a stone and threw the baby in the river. A fisherman found the boy. He took care of the baby and grew him.
When he learned about his identity, he wished to open Kong’s eyes and change his mother’s misfortune. He went to the river with a wooden doll and tried to drink it with water. The king noticed that and asked the boy how this wooden doll could drink water. The boy replied that a woman can give birth to a stone. The man treated the boy as his son. From then on, he always gave justice to his subjects. People still worship him in the temple.

Inside/Outside Views

The area is filled with bells and letters on the way from the main gate to the temple. Bells are familiar in hilly temples, but Golu Devta Temple has millions of bells, which is unusual.
You’ll find the Golu Devta idol inside the main temple, a sight to behold. This intricately crafted and revered idol is the heart of the temple. Alongside the idol, there’s a unique object that resembles a burner. From this, devotees take ‘Bibhuti,’ sacred ash, marking an essential part of their worship.
Also, there are some small temples around the main one.
Behind the main temple, three giant bells hung. You will find bells of different sizes throughout the temple, including one kilogram, two kilograms, three kilograms, and many others. People hang the bells according to their ability.

Opening Hours

Tuesday 24 Hours

Wednesday 24 Hours

Thursday 24 Hours

Friday 24 Hours

Saturday 24 Hours

Sunday 24 Hours

Monday 24 Hours

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, about 116 kilometers from Almora City. You can book a private taxi from the airport to reach Chitai Golu Devta Temple.

By Train: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station to teach Chitai Golu Devta Temple. Book a private taxi to reach the temple, or go by shared taxi.

By Bus: You can reach Almora by any Uttarakhand at regular intervals. Chitai Golu Devta Temple is well connected with roads. You can go there by sharing a taxi or any regular transport.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe for tourists?

Ans: Yes, This temple is entirely safe for tourists.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the temple?

Ans: Photography is allowed. However, photography may not be permitted inside the main temple.

Que-03: Why is Golu Devta Temple famous?

Ans: Golu Devta Temple is famous for its letters and Bells. It is believed that Golu Devta is the God of justice. By writing letters to him, all problems are solved, and he fulfills everyone’s wishes if someone writes to him with a pure heart and intention.