Discover the Anusuya Devi and Atri Muni Ashram in Uttarakhand

Anusuya Devi Temple and Atri Muni Ashram

In India, marriage is thought of as a holy bond between two souls. One of the most famous couples in Hindu mythology is Anusuya Devi, also called Devi Sati, and Atri Muni, one of the Seven Great Sages known as the “Sapta Rishi.” Anusuya Devi is celebrated for her deep devotion and love for her husband. Because of her dedication, she is believed to have gained miraculous powers. Every year, her followers honor her on Dattatreya Jayanti, singing bhajans (devotional songs) and holding lanterns that light up the night.

Rishi Munis (sages) in India traditionally live in ashrams—simple shelters where they practice sadhana (focused spiritual practices) to seek enlightenment. The Atri Muni Ashram, which is about 2 km from the Anusuya Devi Temple, is carved into a mountain and is also known as the Cave Temple.

The Anusuya Devi Temple is a popular place for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath. According to legend, the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva took the form of Anusuya Devi’s sons and lived at this temple. The temple is in Chamoli district in Uttarakhand and can be reached by a 6 km trek from Mandal village, which is about 13 km from Gopeshwar.

The best time to visit is all year round, except during the rainy months from July to September, when travel can be more challenging.

Anusuya Devi Story

According to old stories, people who pray and make offerings at this temple are blessed with children. The stories say that Mata Anusuya, using her magic powers, turned the ‘Trimurti’ (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) into babies and made them play in a cradle.

Later, after lots of prayers, she turned the Trimurti back to their original forms, and it was here that the three-faced Dattatreya was born. Since then, people come here hoping to have kids.

Anusuya Devi Trek

Anusuya Devi Trek is a 6 km trek from Mandal village. From, Ausuya Devi Temple there is more 2 km trek to reach Atrimuni Ashram trek is definitely a sight to see!  A massive waterfall on the way to Atrimuni Ashram from Anusuya Devi Temple.

Dattatreya Jayanti

Dattatreya Jayanti in December. This grand occasion lures devotees and tourists to the temple grounds. Throughout the night, melodious bhajans resonate as devotees hold lamps, fervently worshipping Goddess Sati.

There is also a ‘Dattatreya Temple’ here. Dr. Pradeep, from the family of priests of the Anusuya Temple, says that Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh wanted to test Maa Anusuya’s purity, so she turned them into babies. This three-in-one form became Lord Dattatreya. On his birthday, there is a big fair and worship here.

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How to Reach Ansuya Devi Mandir

Anusuya Devi Trek

• The temple’s allure is magnified by its location, tucked 30 kilometers away from Chopta, and,  18km away from Gopewshwar town (a 6 km trek from Mandal village). A massive waterfall en route Atrimuni Ashram trek is definitely a sight to see!

Atri Muni Ashram:

• A short 2-kilometer journey from the temple takes you to the Atri Muni Ashram, the abode of Devi Anusuya’s husband. This unique ashram boasts a tradition where devotees circumambulate around a river, a gesture of profound reverence.

Itinerary for Anusuya Devi Temple and Atri Muni Ashram Trip

Day 1: Dehradun to Gopeshwar (125 km)

• Start early morning from Dehradun, taking a 7-8 hour drive to Gopeshwar.
• Drive through scenic locations like Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag.
• At Devprayag, see the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi Rivers.
• Continue through Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag before reaching Gopeshwar.
• Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Gopeshwar.

Day 2: Gopeshwar to Mandal (13 km by road) – Anusuya Devi Temple and Atri Muni Ashram (6 km trek)

• Morning drive from Gopeshwar to Mandal village (about 30 minutes).
• Start a 6 km uphill trek from Mandal, taking about 3-4 hours to reach the Anusuya Devi Temple.
• After exploring the temple, continue 2 km further to visit Atri Muni Ashram.
• Return to Gopeshwar in the evening and stay overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 3: Gopeshwar to Dehradun (125 km)

• Begin the return journey to Dehradun, a 7-8 hour drive.
• Reach Dehradun by early evening.

Conclusion:

The Anusuya Devi Temple and Atri Muni Ashram beckon both devotees and adventurers, offering an opportunity to immerse in profound legends and relish the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. This sacred journey promises not only spiritual enrichment but also communion with nature’s splendor.