Mahasu Devta Temple
Delve into ancient mysticism at Mahasu Devta Temple in serene Hanol
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TEMPLE
Facts to Remember
Starting Point
Hanol, Dehradun Dist., Uttarakhand
Duration
1 Day Darshan
Difficulty
Easy
Max. Altitude
Approx. 3,445 ft
Best time to travel
Sep to Nov, March to June
Total Distance
Approx. 180 km from Dehradun
ABOUT THE TEMPLE
Introducing the Divine
Tucked away in the beautiful town of Hanol, Garhwal, Uttarakhand Himalayas, Mahasu Devta Temple stands as a testament to ageless mythology and centuries-old customs. It is loacted on the bank of Tons river around 200 km from Dehradun and 100 km from Chakrata.
ORIGINS AND LEGENDS
Unraveling the Mythology
The origin of Mahasu Devta Temple is shrouded in the mysteries of multiple legends and folklore weaving tales of divine intervention.
According to local beliefs, the temple traces its roots back to the mythological era of Mahabharata. When Krishna disappeared at the end of Dvapar Yug, the Pandavas followed him and crossed the River Tons. The location's beauty captivated Yudhishtra, who asked Vishwakarma to construct a temple there and spend nine days with Draupadi.
It is also said that once demons wandered over the areas of Jaunshar Bhabar in Uttarakhand and Himachal destroying properties and killing people. Thus villagers prayed to Lord Shiva for help and protection and Lord Shiva granted them their wish that all the evils would be killed shortly.
Botha, Pavasi, Vasik and Chalda the four brothers who were later known by a common affix of Mahasu (Char Mahasu), their mother Devladli Devi and their army protected the area by destroying the demons and bringing peace to the region. Since then, the region started worshipping the Mahashu Devta.
ARCHITECTURE AND RITUALS OF THE TEMPLE
Enchanting Moments
Architecture of Patal Bhuvneshwar Caves
As one approaches the temple complex, the intricate wooden carvings and traditional Jaunsari architecture captivate the senses, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and artistic prowess.
The Mahasu Devta Temple in Hanol is among the few remaining instances of a flawless fusion of stone and wood to make a single composite structure. The sanctuary is a pure stone shikhara built in the traditional Nagar style of architecture. A beautifully tapering kalash pinnacle rests atop a two-tiered conical canopy that covers the entire wooden construction with a high-pitched slate pent roof.
Any individual other than the pujari is strictly forbidden from entering the sanctum.
A Brahmin is usually the pujari of the temple; during the length of his divinity as pujari, he must avoid contact with other people, eat once a day, and should not consume meat.
LOCATION, VIEWS AND AMBIENCE
Where faith meets Majesty
The temple's location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains, meandering rivers, and verdant valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.
HOW TO REACH & CLIMATE CONDITIONS
Undertaking the journey of Discovery
How to reach Mahasu Devta Temple
Mahasu Devta Temple can be reached directly from Dehradun via Kalsi or Mussoorie. The nearest Inter State Bus Station (ISBT), airport and railway station is in Dehradun. Distance between Dehradun & Hanol: Approx. 173 Km.
Weather Conditions at Mahasu Devta Temple
Hanol is best during summers with a pleasant and dry climate which also happens to be the most visited time of the year. Monsoons bring extreme rain and difficult terrain while winters are very cold.
TEMPLE TRAVEL GUIDEBOOK
Detailed Information
Private Transport
You can directly reach Hanol temple by road from Dehradun through private transport via the following routes:
Dehradun - Paonta Sahib - Hanol
Dehradun - Kalsi - Hanol
Dehradun - Mussoorie - Hanol
Public Transport
You can avail a bus towards Mori from Dehradun and avail a local taxi to Hanol from Mori.
You can hire a local taxi from Dehradun to Hanol.
Important note: The frequency of public transport between Dehradun and Hanol is low.
By Road
The nearest Inter State Bus Station (ISBT) is in Dehradun.
Distance between Mori & Hanol: Approx. 17 Km
Distance between Kalsi & Hanol: Approx. 128 Km
Distance between Ponta Sahib & Hanol: Approx. 145 Km
Distance between Chakrata & Lakhamandal: Approx. 94 Km
Distance between Dehradun & Hanol: Approx. 173 Km
Distance between Delhi & Hanol: Approx. 400 Km
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun. From there you can either take a bus or a local taxi to Hanol.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Dehradun Airport. You can reach Hanol directly by hiring a local taxi from Dehradun airport.
DID YOU KNOW THESE INTERESTING FACTS?
Tales of the Temple
Living Deity Tradition: Mahasu Devta Temple in Hanol follows the unique tradition of a "living deity," where the deity is believed to possess the body of a chosen individual during festivals and ceremonies. This ancient practice dates back centuries and is a rare phenomenon seen in only a few temples across India, adding to the temple's mystique and allure.
Ancient Wooden Architecture: One of the most fascinating aspects of Mahasu Devta Temple is its architectural marvels, featuring intricate wooden carvings and designs that date back several centuries. The temple's construction style reflects the traditional craftsmanship of the region and stands as a testament to the ancient architectural heritage of Uttarakhand.
Sacred Grove Conservation: Surrounding the Mahasu Devta Temple is a sacred grove, a pristine forested area protected by local communities for centuries. These sacred groves are biodiversity hotspots and serve as natural sanctuaries for rare plant and animal species. The conservation of these groves reflects the deep spiritual connection between the temple and its natural surroundings.
Mahasu Jatra Festival: The Mahasu Jatra Festival held annually at the temple is a vibrant celebration that attracts devotees and tourists from far and wide. During this festival, elaborate rituals and ceremonies are performed to honour Lord Mahasu, accompanied by cultural performances, folk dances, and traditional music. The festival offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region and is a rare opportunity to witness age-old traditions come to life.
Divine Healing Powers: According to local folklore, Mahasu Devta Temple is believed to possess divine healing powers, with numerous accounts of miraculous healings and spiritual experiences reported by devotees. People from across the country visit the temple seeking relief from ailments and blessings for good health and well-being, attributing their recovery to the benevolent grace of Lord Mahasu.
TEMPLE ROUTE
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up from Delhi or Dehradun, Arrival in Hanol
Day 2: Mahasu Devta Temple Darshan
Day 3: Departure to Delhi or Dehradun