Balkunwari Temple

Mata Balkunwari Temple is located on a hilltop near Devikhal in Pauri Garhwal. It is one of the Siddh Peeths and is dedicated to the embodiment of feminine power, Shakti. Devotees from far and wide visited the shrine to seek the blessings of the deity. Situated atop a mountain, the temple offers a serene environment and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The beauty of the temple is further enhanced by the charm of the path that takes you there. Goddess Parvati is the presiding deity of the temple, which also houses a Shivalinga. Within the complex, there is a stone which is believed to be associated with Lord Shiva. It is such a place where you can truly connect with the divine and feel its presence and power within you.

Balkuwari Temple Distance

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the Balkuwari Temple is located about 45 km from Rishikesh city. Due to its distance and bad road conditions, it takes around two hours to reach the temple. Following the Neelkanth Temple route, midway, the road to Baal Kunwari Temple continues straight ahead, while Neelakanth lies to the right.

To reach the temple, visitors need to hike a short distance from the main road. The hiking trail is lined with a railing, and it looks majestic when viewed from a distance. It is surrounded by lush greenery, which may vary depending on the season.

Stairways

The final stretch of the temple requires climbing around 400 stairs, which can be challenging for some visitors. Though it may sound like a Herculean task, once you reach the top, the divine power of the temple and the awe-inspiring view will fade out your fatigue.

Spot for Yoga and Meditation

Perched at a height of over 1,300 meters, the temple offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes and mountain ranges. The serenity and tranquillity of the temple make it a perfect spot for yoga and meditation, helping you to reconnect with your inner self.

Things to Do

Visitors can indulge in various activities during their visit to Maa Balkumari Devi Temple: -

Accommodation

• It is hard to find accommodation within the temple's proximity; so visitors need to travel some distance back, to find suitable lodging options, most of which are resorts, tents, and others. Some lodging options are: -
  • Arka Resort and Spa.
  • Antrix Resort and Retreat.
  • The Jungle Mist Resort.
  • The Himalayas Resort.
  • ISOL Nature Retreat.
  • The Jungle Walker Resort and Retreat.
  • Garden Grove Luxury Resort.
  • Vatika Luxury Jungle Camp.

Important Tips for Travellers

• For convenient access, it is recommended to travel by taxi or two-wheeler.
• Roads are not in great condition, so it is advisable to avoid visiting during the heavy monsoons.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you need to hike a short distance to reach the temple.
• Temple opens daily at 8:30 am and closes around 6:30 PM.
• Prasad's shop is available near the temple entrance gate.
• In summer, visiting early in the morning is recommended.
• Avoid visiting in peak summers due to intense heat waves.
• Road roadside parking facility is available from its hiking point.
• Shared taxis or utility vehicles are available in limited numbers from the Rishikesh Bus Stand.
• Carry water bottles, as water is not available during the hike.
• Apply sunscreen to protect your body from harmful UV rays.
• Carry an umbrella or wear a hat, particularly in summer.
• If visiting during the monsoon, do not forget to bring a raincoat.
• Nearby shops sell basic supplies, so it is recommended to carry some cash.
• Carry a small backpack with some snacks for the journey.

Nearby Attraction

• It usually takes around half a day to explore the temple completely, including the travel time. In the meantime, you can explore other top places in Rishikesh. Some must-visit spots: -
  • Neelkanth Temple.
  • Patna Waterfall.
  • Trayambakeshwar Temple (Terah Manzil Mandir)
  • Ram Jhula.
  • Laxman Jhula.
  • Janki Setu Bridge.
  • The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya)
  • Sri Sathya Sai Ghaat.