Why Devprayag Temple Stands as Uttarakhand’s Oldest Landmark?

About Devprayag Temple

Devprayag Temple is famous as Ragunath Mandir , established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, is a sacred site for Hindus in India. Located in Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, it marks the confluence of two holy rivers, Bhagirathi and Alaknanda, which together form the sacred Ganga River.

Raghunathji Temple Timings

Raghunathji Temple, also known as Tirukantamenum Kadi Nagar, is located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers in Devprayag. This temple, believed to date back to the 8th century, is one of the oldest shrines dedicated to Lord Rama.

Raghunathji Temple Timings Chart:

Devprayag Sangam

The temple stands at an altitude of about 1,700 feet above sea level and is near the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers, where they merge to form the Ganga.

The  Devprayag  temple is mainly made of stone and features a main shrine along with several smaller shrines nearby. It is dedicated to Lord Rama, also known as Raghunathji, who is the temple’s presiding deity. Other gods and goddesses are also worshipped within the temple premises, making it a significant spiritual site for devotees.

The temple is closely tied to the Ramayana era, where it is believed that Lord Rama performed penance here to absolve the sin of killing Ravana.

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The Legends and Myth

According to legend, while Lord Rama was worshipping in the waters of Devprayag, Pushpamala came to rescue him. Meanwhile, a creature named Makara troubled him during his prayers. Lord Rama killed Makara with his sword, and after the act, his sword ascended to heaven. This sacred site was initially known as Prayaga and later became famous as Devprayaga Temple.

History of Devprayag Temple

The history of Devprayag Temple dates back to the Vedic period, making it one of the oldest and most sacred sites in India. According to mythology, the temple is linked to the Ramayana era and is believed to have been established between the 9th and 10th centuries.

The temple was initially founded by Adi Shankaracharya and later expanded by the Garhwal Dynasty. Over time, various rulers contributed to its growth. In 1551, King Sahaj Pal donated a bell to the temple, while others added doorways and artistic paintings to enhance its beauty.

In 1893, the temple faced a major earthquake but was rebuilt by local dynasties, preserving its cultural and spiritual significance. Today, the Government of Uttarakhand maintains the temple, ensuring its rich history continues to inspire devotees and visitors alike.

Devprayag Temple Architecture

The architecture of Devprayag Temple is simple yet captivating. Built in the traditional North Indian style, the temple features a Shikhar that rises to an impressive height of 60 feet.

The main shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, housing beautiful idols of both deities. Surrounding the central shrine are smaller shrines dedicated to Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman, and Adi Shankaracharya.

Situated at an altitude of 2,028 feet above sea level, the temple’s serene location adds to its spiritual ambiance, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Time to Visit Devprayag Temple

• The best time to visit Devprayag Temple is from March to May and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the temple and its surroundings.
• Visitors can also witness the aarti and puja ceremonies, which enhance the spiritual experience and offer a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of this sacred place.

Places to Visit Near Devprayag Temple

Devprayag, located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, is one of the Panch Prayags, known for the holy confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers. Beyond its spiritual significance, the town offers many nearby attractions:

1. Teen Dhara

• Located on the Rishikesh-Devprayag Highway, Teen Dhara is a popular spot for travelers to relax. It is known for its dhabas, food stalls, and scenic surroundings amidst lush greenery.

2. Dashrathshila

• This picturesque hillock lies by the peaceful Shanta stream and is easily accessible. The spot is named after King Dashratha’s daughter, making it a site of mythological importance.

3. Alaknanda Bhagirathi Sangam

• The divine confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, forming the holy Ganga, is a breathtaking sight. This serene spot is a must-visit near Devprayag.

4. Danda Nagraja Temple

• Located atop a hill in the Pauri Garhwal region, this temple is believed to be where Lord Krishna appeared as a snake. It is a place of immense spiritual and historical importance.

5. Chandrabadani Devi

• Situated on the Devprayag Tehsil border, Chandrabadani Devi Temple offers a peaceful escape. It involves a short 1-km trek, making it accessible for visitors to enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty.
• These places near Devprayag combine natural beauty, spiritual significance, and mythological charm, making them ideal for exploration.

6. Nakshatra Vedh Shala

• Nakshatra Vedh Shala is one of the hidden gems in Devprayag and a must-visit for astronomy enthusiasts. Established in 1946 by Pt. Chakradhar Joshi, it is India’s first astronomical observatory.
• Here, you can explore a fascinating collection of old manuscripts and gain insights into ancient astronomical practices. For stargazers, the observatory offers an incredible opportunity to view the stars and celestial bodies using its telescope and other advanced equipment.

Devprayag from Rishikesh ( Transport Options )

1. Cab (Taxi)

Taking a cab is the most common and convenient way to travel from Rishikesh to Devprayag. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

2. Bus

Regular bus services are operated by the Uttarakhand State Road Transport Corporation (USRTC). The bus fare varies based on the bus type and season, making it an affordable option.

3. Motorcycle

For adventurous travelers, renting a motorcycle or scooter offers an exciting way to explore the route. However, be cautious as the road conditions can be challenging, especially during monsoon or winter.

4. Shared Taxi or Jeep

For budget-friendly travel, shared taxis or jeeps are available. Passengers split the fare, making it an economical option. However, this option is less comfortable compared to a private taxi.

Choose the transport option that suits your budget and travel preferences!