Chandrabadni Temple

Situated atop of Chandrakoot Mountain, Mata Chandrabadni Temple is a holy Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Sati. It is one of the revered Shakti Peethas, located approximately 33 km from the confluence town of Devprayag. Devotees with deep faith visit the shrine from far and wide to seek her blessings. Situated at an height of 1,353 meters, the temple offers a clear view of the Surkanda, Kedarnath, and Badrinath Peaks. Every year in April, the temple committee along with nearby villagers, organize a fair to promote harmony and happiness in the region.
 

Shakti Peeth

Dedicated to the revered Goddess Sati, Chandrabadni Temple is the third Shakti Peeth in Tehri Garhwal, after Kunjapuri Temple and Surkanda Devi Temple. Inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, a Shri Yantra is enshrined on a flat stone instead of an idol. Priests, along with devotees, worship this yantra to seek the deity blessings.
 

Being situated at top of the Chandrabadni mountain, the temple offers a resounding view of the surrounding landscape. The snow covered Kedarnath and Badrinath mountains look mesmerizing from this vantage point. The temple is located in Jamnikhal village, around 52 km from Srinagar and 57 km from New Tehri. To reach the shrine, devotees must trek a distance of 1 km. As per the legend, when Sati's body part fell here, her weapons were also scattered all around the place. Thus, a number of Trishul (tridents) and idols can be seen near the temple.
 

Chandrabadni Temple Trek

The spiritual journey to Chandrabadni temple begins with a trek of 1 km. This climb is challenging and not easy for someone, as it requires some physical strength. However, the trail is scenic and encompasses an illustrious view of nature to keep the devotees engaged throughout the journey. It takes around 40 minutes to reach the temple depending upon one's fitness level.
 

Annual Fair

Annually in the month of April, a grand fair is organised on the temple premises with great enthusiasm and devotion. A number of devotees with a deep faith in the deity attend this fair. During this, the enshrined Shri Yantra is ceremonially tied with a new cloth canopy following all traditional rituals. It is believed to be the place where the torso of Goddess Sati fell, the priests were blind folded during the ritual in reverence.
 

Temple Timing

Temple opens for the devotees daily around 6 am and closes at 7 pm.
 

Accommodation

Accommodation is near the shrine is limited. Visitors looking for overnight stays must visit Devprayag, where homestays and hotels are available.
 

History

The history of Chandrabadni Siddha Peeth found mention in the 141 chapter of Kedarkhand. According to the legend, King Daksha, the father of Goddess Sati, organised a Yajna (sacrificial ritual) and intentionally didn't invite his son in law, Lord Shiva. When Sati learned about this Yajna, she requested Lord Shiva to attend, but he refused. After requesting multiple times, she gave up and in anger sacrificed herself in the yajna fire, as she felt there was no place for Lord Shiva in the ritual.
 

As soon as Shankar came to know about Sati's death, he visited the yajna place and saw the charred body of Sati in the yajna. After seeing this, he beheaded King Daksha and carried charred Sati's body, wandering in grief all round the universe. Seeing this, all gods and goddess requested Lord Vishnu to calm Shiva. Lord Vishnu commands his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Sati's body in several pieces. Wherever, the pieces of Sati's body fell, were later enshrined as Shakti Peeth. It is believed that the torso of Goddess Sati fell on Chandrakut hill, where the current Chandrabadni temple stands.
 

Important Tips for Travellers

• Direct transport to the temple is unavailable, it is recommended to hire taxis for direct access.
• Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as reaching the temple requires a trek of 1 km.
• A free roadside parking is available for all types of vehicles.
• Prasad shops and some snack shops are available along the main road and near the temple.
• Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the trek.
• Photography and videography inside the sanctum is not allowed.
• Leave the shrine before the dusk due to limited overnight facility.
• Pilgrims may experience crowds and traffic on occasions like Navratri and the annual fair in April.
• Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel, as the last fuel station enroute to the temple is at Devprayag.
• For emergencies, carry essential items such as a first aid kit, car tool kit, etc.
• Mobile connectivity is limited in the area, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash.
• Avoid travelling during monsoon season, as it may cause various challenges.

Nearby Attraction

•   Visitors can also explore some notable attractions nearby Chandrabadni Temple : -
  • Devprayag.
  • Budha Kedar.
  • Tehri Lake.
  • Dobra Chanti Bridge.