Garjiya Devi Temple is perched on the top of a huge rock in the middle of the Kosi River in Garjiya village on the outskirts of Corbett National Park. Garjiya Temple Corbett is considered a sacred shrine that is believed to have been formed by the mud and clay that came along during a flood, years ago.
This is a sacred Shaktipeethas in India and one of the most famous temples in the Nainital district discovered by Katyuri Kings, the rulers of Ramnagar, in 1840. The form of Shakti residing in the Garjiya Devi Temple is the calm and peaceful avatar of Goddess Parvati. It is said that the idol of Goddess Parvati was found on mountains at Garjiya village and the temple was constructed at the place where the idol was discovered. The view from the top of the rock where the temple is situated is amazing with the backdrop of mountains and river Kosi adding their grace.
Legends believe that Garjiya Devi is the incarnation of Goddess Parvati, daughter of King of the Mountains also known as Giri Raj. The temple houses a 4.5 feet high idol of Garjiya Devi along with the idols of Devi Saraswati, Lord Ganesha, and Bhairav Nath. There is also a temple of Laxmi-Narayan in the temple premises and the idols of this temple were found during excavation here. Devotees visiting the temple offer coconut, vermilion, incense, lamp and red Dupatta to the goddess. It is believed that the prayers offered here are not complete until the devotee worships Bhairav after worshipping Garjiya Devi.
A piece of red cloth with golden border, red Dupatta, which is offered to Garjiya Devi is later tied on the grill around the temple since devotees believe that it would make their wishes come true. Once their wishes are fulfilled, devotees dedicate umbrellas and bells to Garjiya Devi at the temple.
On the day of Kartik Purnima, the festival of lights, a big fair is held at Garjiya Temple which is visited by thousands of devotees from surrounding areas. Garjia temple Jim Corbett is a perfect place to visit if you are looking for a peaceful time and it is one of the main attractions in Corbett. But the temple becomes inaccessible during monsoons due to the high water level in Kosi River.
Garjiya Devi Temple, Corbett Timings: 6:00 to 12:00 Noon and 4:00 P.M to 8:00 P.M
Garjiya Devi Temple, Corbett Entry Fees: Nil
