The famous temple of Golu Devta is situated on a hill in Ghorakhal. It is also famous as “Temple of bells”. Ghorakhal is the small place located in Nainital district in Uttarkhand, India. Ghorakhal is famous for the temple of Golu Devta. Ghorakhal is 4 kms away from Bhowali and 16 kms from Nainital. Ghorakhal means “a pond for water to the horses”

Golu Devta Temple is famous for unique rituals, such as, devotees use stamp papers to make petitions for desired decree in litigations. There is famous belief that Golu Devta gives justice to the devotees quickly. Devotees pray here with enthusiasm and pride. Many devotees visit the temple to make the wishes and after the fulfillment of their wishes, offer bells and sacrifice animals to Golu Devta. Number of bells in different sizes and shapes are hanging in the temple premises. Ghee, Curd, milk, Poori are offered to Golu Devta. Known as God of Justice, Golu Devta is offered White Shawl, white Pagari and white clothes. People from different locations, visit Golu Devta Temple with a belief that Golu Devta will solve their problems.

History

The history says Golu Devta Temple in Ghorakhal is constructed in the 12th century.

Architecture

The Ghorakhal is at altitude of 2000m above sea level. Golu Devta Temple is located at the height. The Floor of this temple is made from marble and this temple has 57 stairs.

Legend

There are a number of legends behind Golu Devta temple’s establishment. Golu Devta is known as an incarnation of Shiva.

One legend says that King Binsar killed Golu Devta. The king beheaded the Golu Devta. His head fell at Kaprkhan, Binsar and body fell at Dana Golu, which is the ancient and original temple of Golu Devta.

Another legend says that Golu Devta was a General in the army and died in the War.

Best Time to Visit

The climate is cool and healthy throughout the year in the Ghorakhal. September to December is the best time to visit the place.

Places to Visit

Sainik School of Uttarkhand

It is located in Ghorakhal. This school prepares the students not only mentally, but also physically to join the armed forces. It is the first Sainik school of Uttarkhand.

Nainital

Nainital known as ‘lake of the city’ is a famous hill station in Uttarkhand. Nainital is known for eye shaped unique Naini lake.

Kaichi Dham Mandir

It is 17 kms away from Nainital, situated on Nainital-Almora road. It is a pilgrimage center, founded in 1962 by Maharaj Neem Karoli Baba.

Jim Corbett National Park

It is the oldest national park in India, named after Jim Corbett, who played key role in the establishment of this park.

Mukteshwar

This is the place where Rabindra Nath Tagore began writing Gitanjali. It is 51 kms away from Nainital. Mukteshwar is surrounded by orchids and dense forest, and established by Britishers as Research and Education Institute. One can see a beautiful view of Nepal snow ranges from Mukteshwar.

How to Reach

Air

Pantnagar 71 kms away is the nearest airport. It is well connected to all major locations in India. There are frequent flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport of Delhi to Pantnagar airport.

Rail

Kathgodam is the nearest railway station, which is 35 km away from the Nainital. Kathgodam is directly connected to Lucknow, Delhi and Bareilly by rail.

Road

Ghorakhal is 4 kms away from  Bhowali and 16 kms from Nainital. Nainital is well connected by roads to Delhi, Ranikhet, Almora and Bareilly. You can take a taxi from Nainital to reach Ghorakhal.