Garjiya Devi Temple

Garjiya Devi Temple is a Hindu Shakti shrine dedicated to Goddess Garjiya, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Located in Garjiya village near Ramnagar on the outskirts of Jim Corbett National Park, the temple sits uniquely on a large rock in the middle of the Kosi River. First discovered in 1840 by Katyuri rulers and constructed as a temple in 1940, it holds connections to ancient royal families including the Katyuri and Kuru dynasties.

Visitors can expect to see a distinctive temple perched on a massive rock formation in the midst of the flowing Kosi River. The approach involves climbing approximately 80-100 steep steps to reach the main shrine area. The temple offers scenic views of the river and surrounding forest landscape. During Kartik Purnima festival, the temple is decorated with numerous diyas (lamps) creating a spectacular sight. The small sanctum accommodates only 2-3 people at a time for darshan.

The temple was first discovered in 1840 by Katyuri rulers of Ramnagar and constructed as a temple structure in 1940. It has historical connections with ancient royal families including the Katyuri dynasty and Kuru dynasty who ruled the region before the Katyuris.

Considered one of the sacred Shakti peeths of the region, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Garjiya, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple holds special significance during Kartik Purnima when a grand fair is held. Legends associate the temple's origin with mud and clay deposited during floods, and it maintains unique traditions including allowing footwear during aarti.