Kalimath Temple | Shakti peeth | Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand)

Kalimath Temple | Shakti peeth | Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand)

Kalimath Temple and it's location -

Situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, on the banks of the Saraswati River.

The temple is at an elevation of 1250 meters (4050 feet) above sea level.

Significance of Kalimath temple-

Kalimath Temple is one of the Shakti Peeths among the 108 Shakti Peeths dedicated to Goddess Kali.

Instead of an idol, the temple worships a Kund (pond) covered with the Rajatpat Sri Yantra.

The kund opens once a year during Sharad Navratri for worship.

Some stories of the significance of The Kalimath temple- 

Ancient legends emphasize the importance of the Kalimath Temple and its deity. One folklore tells that at Kalimath, Goddess Kali transformed into a 12-year-old girl to defeat the demons Nishumbha and Raktabija. After defeating the demons and saving the universe, Goddess Kali went underground at this sacred spot. This area became a holy ditch, always covered by a silver plate, which is only uncovered during the annual Sharad Navratri festival. The silver plate (Shree yantra) is revered as a sacred symbol of Goddess Kali.


Another legend linked to Kalimath Temple involves Daksha Prajapati, the father of Dakshayani Devi. He insulted his son-in-law, Lord Shiva, during a sacrifice. In response, Goddess Sati, Lord Shiva's wife, sacrificed herself in reverence for Daksha Prajapati. This enraged Lord Shiva, who began the destructive tandav dance while holding Sati’s burnt body. As parts of her body fell to the ground, these spots became sacred sites known as Siddha Peeths. Kalimath is one of these holy places. 

The lower part of Goddess Kali is worshipped at Kalimath, while the upper part is worshipped at Dhari Devi Temple, located between Srinagar and Rudraprayag.


The primary deity worshipped at Kalimath Temple is Goddess Kali.

Additionally, divine deities of Laxmi and Saraswati are also revered here.

Rituals and practices  observed at Kalimath Temple-

 An unbroken flame burns continuously in the temple.

The holy Kund is opened for worship during Sharad Navratri, with rituals performed at midnight by chief priests.

Previously, sacrificial practices were followed, but they have been abolished. Nowadays, devotees offer raw coconut and materials related to Goddess's makeup for worship.

The best time to visit Kalimath Temple?

 The temple remains open throughout the year.

Navratri, particularly Sharad Navratri, is considered the best time to visit when the festival is celebrated with great joy.


What are the legends associated with Kalimath Temple?


Goddess Kali killed the demon Rakt Beej at Kalimath and then settled beneath the ground.


Another belief suggests that the lower part of Goddess Kali is worshipped at Kalimath, while the upper part is worshipped at Dhari Devi Temple, located between Srinagar and Rudraprayag.

What are the nearby attractions to visit along with Kalimath Temple?

- Gaurikund: A base trek for the Kedarnath Temple pilgrimage.

- Kedarnath Temple: A revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

- Ukhimath: The winter abode of Kedarnath Temple and Madhyamaheshwar.

- Chopta: A scenic destination for trekking and camping amidst natural beauty.

- Rudraprayag: Known for the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.


Weather?
- Summer: Pleasing weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 36°C.
- Monsoon: Rainfall from July to September, not advisable for visits.
- Winter: Cold temperatures from December to February, ranging from 15°C to 0°C.


How can one reach Kalimath Temple?
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 165km away.

- By Rail: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh or Haridwar, followed by a road journey.

- By Road: Well-connected by road transport, with buses and taxis available from major cities in Uttarakhand.


What is Kalimath famous for?
- Kalimath is renowned for its temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
- Trekking to Kalishila, the Saraswati River, and its natural beauty are also highlights of the region.


What are some highlights and essential details about Kalimath?
- Temperature: Ranges from 20°C to 35°C in summer, and 5°C to 20°C in winter.
- Best time to visit: Navratras and throughout the year.
- Situated in: Ukhimath, Rudraprayag district.
- Nearest Railways Station: Rishikesh (175km) or Haridwar (200km).
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun (200km).

Check out our other articles!

Panch Prayag: The Confluence of Spiritual Harmony in Uttarakhand

A Guide to Gangotri

How to Reach Yamunotri from Dehradun.

Yamunotri: A Spiritual Haven in the Himalayas

Char Dham Yatra: A Spiritual Sojourn in the Lap of the Himalayas

Char Dham Yatra Travel Guide from Dehradun: A Spiritual Expedition

A Journey Through the History of Uttarakhand

Explore Uttarakhand: A Tapestry of Nature, Spirituality, and Adventure

Planning Your Perfect Tour to Uttarakhand: A Step-by-Step Guide

Josimath: A Himalayan Oasis Where Spirituality Embraces Splendor

Dhari Devi Temple: A Sacred Haven on the Banks of the Alaknanda River

Chandrabadni Devi Temple: A Spiritual Oasis in the Himalayas.

Kedarnath: A Spiritual Sojourn amidst the Majestic Himalayas.

Kyunkaleshwar Temple in Pauri: A Serene Abode of Lord Shiva

Places in Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand to visit.

Kandolia Temple, Pauri Garhwal, Uttrakhand, India


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