Santala Devi Temple in Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Not just the spiritual and divine beliefs but the scenic beauty of the Santala Devi Temple will lure you to pay a visit to this temple. Due to the very famous story of Santala Devi and her brother being turned into a stone deity, this place is considered to be spiritual and of great importance in Hindu mythology. For people who believe in such stories and miracles, this place is very important for them. Most of the people visit this temple on Saturdays as it is considered to be the day of Santala Devi and it was Saturday only when the Goddess and her brother were converted to stone deities. The best time to visit the temple is from November to March when the temperature is pretty cool. 

History of Santala Devi Temple

It is believed when Santala Devi and her brother realized that they are not equipped enough to fight with the Mughal Army, they abandoned their weapons and decided to pray to God. As they were praying, meanwhile, a divine light suddenly flickered, and they were turned into stone statues. Post that, the shrine was built in the fort itself. As the images of Santala Devi and her brother were turned into statues on Saturday, it is considered as the day of the Goddess, and thus, you may witness a huge flock of devotees visiting Santala Devi Temple in Dehradun on Saturdays.

Santala Devi Temple Location

Santala Devi Temple in Dehradun, Uttarakhand is located at a very scenic location on a hilltop. The route to this temple is motorable and the last 2 km near the temple needs to be covered on foot. The area is very serene and secluded, hence one can feel pleasure at this place. The temple is located at Jariwala and it is a 2 km trek from Punjabiwala. Reaching the temple is quite easy if you are self-driving or have hired a taxi. If you want to go by a local bus then you need to take the bus to Jaitunwala and then take a local jeep or taxi to Punjabiwala. From Punjabiwala take a sort trek of 2 km on foot to reach the temple. 

Santala Devi Temple Highlights

Santala Devi Temple is a very famous place for its stories and religious beliefs. Earlier, everyday animal sacrifice was used to be performed at the temple which now has been stopped. Besides the religious importance, the temple offers mesmerizing views of the sunset as it is built on a hilltop. The views of the sunset from this point is enthralling. This place is great to come for a short break if you are feeling low on weekdays during the weekdays it remains quaint and tranquil due to the fewer devotees. There is another famous temple near the Santala Devi Temple called Tapkeshwar Temple, which is also famous amongst devotees for its religious beliefs and stories.  

The temple has also a sunset point, where you can cherish a scenic view for a completely blissful experience. However, if you are a tourist planning to visit the temple, it is advised to avoid a visit to Santala Devi Temple, Dehradun, Uttarakhand on weekends, as its premises and the sunset views are really crowded, making it difficult to let you explore the attraction completely.