Shani Dev Temple Kharsali, Uttarakhand
Shani Dev Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to lord shani located in Kharsali, Almora, Uttarakhand. The Temple structure is very old with rock and wooden design. Walk up seven stories of wooden staircase to reach the main chamber at the top of the temple where Lord Shani's blessings. The idol of Goddess Yamuna bring from Yamunotri to the Shani Dev Temple of Kharsali, during the winter season.
Mythological Importance:
- The Goddess Yamuna is the daughter of Sun God and his consort Chhaya and having one sister Sangya, and a brother Lord Shani Dev, Yamuna Devi also has two cousins Lord Yamraj and Goddess Ganga.
- During the first week of the month May every year on the occasion of “AkshyaTritiya”, Lord Shani Dev comes with his sister Yamuna at Yamunotri then he returns back to Kharsali, waits till the time when “Bhai Dooj” or “Yam Dwitiya” arrives and then Lord Shani take goddess Yamuna back to the Kharsali. This occasion occurs two days after Deepawali.
- Once a year, there is a miracle happen in the temple on the day of Kartik Purnima. According to the temple priests, the pitchers on the top of the temple of Shani Dev is change itself. How does this happen, no information about this miracle, on this day, the devotee who comes the Shani Dev temple, his suffering ends forever.
The Pilgrims and devotees can have darshan of Lord Shani Dev throughout the year.
Timings
Shani Dev Temple open at 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Accessibility
Shani Dev Temple is about 2 KM away from Yamunotri Dham and a must visit Tirath (Place) while you are at Yamunotri Dham.