Tarkulha Devi Temple

Tarkulha Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in the city of Deoria in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tarkulha Devi, who is considered to be a form of Goddess Durga. The temple is situated on the banks of the Tons River and is surrounded by lush green forests. It is believed that the temple was built over 500 years ago by a saint named Baba Balak Nath. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the Navratri festival when devotees from all over the country come to offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess.

The architecture of the temple is unique, with intricate carvings and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings. The main deity of the temple, Tarkulha Devi, is depicted as a fierce warrior goddess riding a lion, holding weapons in her multiple arms. The temple also has other idols of various Hindu gods and goddesses. Visitors to the temple can also take a dip in the Tons River, which is considered to be holy and believed to have healing properties. The temple complex also has a number of small shops selling religious items and souvenirs.

Tarkulha Devi Temple is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of India.

The history of Tarkulha Devi Temple is believed to date back to over 500 years. According to legends, the temple was built by a saint named Baba Balak Nath who was a devotee of Goddess Durga. Baba Balak Nath is said to have come to this place while on his spiritual journey and was impressed by the natural beauty of the place. He then decided to build a temple here in honor of Goddess Durga.

Another legend associated with the temple is that during the ancient times, a demon named Tarkasur was causing havoc and terrorizing the people in this region. The people, unable to defeat the demon, prayed to Goddess Durga for help. The goddess appeared before them and battled with the demon for nine days and finally killed him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. It is believed that the temple was built at the spot where the demon was killed.

Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and reconstructions. The temple complex has been expanded and new structures have been added to accommodate the growing number of devotees. In recent times, the temple has also been equipped with modern facilities such as guesthouses, canteens, and parking facilities to make it more convenient for visitors.

Today, Tarkulha Devi Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination and is visited by devotees from all over India. The temple has played an important role in preserving the rich cultural and religious heritage of India and continues to be an important center of worship and spirituality.

The architecture of Tarkulha Devi Temple is a blend of different styles that have evolved over the centuries. The temple is built in the North Indian architectural style and is made of red sandstone and marble. The temple has several intricate carvings and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.

The temple has a rectangular layout with a high central tower called the shikhar. The shikhar is adorned with intricate carvings and is topped with a golden kalash. The entrance to the temple is through a large gateway that has intricate carvings and paintings of various Hindu deities.

Inside the temple, the main deity, Tarkulha Devi, is placed on a high pedestal and is flanked by smaller idols of other Hindu gods and goddesses. The deity is depicted as a fierce warrior goddess riding a lion and holding various weapons in her multiple arms.

The temple complex also has several smaller shrines dedicated to other Hindu gods and goddesses. The complex has a large courtyard that is surrounded by a pillared arcade. The arcade has several shops selling religious items and souvenirs.

Overall, the architecture of Tarkulha Devi Temple is a beautiful example of North Indian temple architecture and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. The intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures in the temple are a treat for the eyes and showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built the temple.

Tarkulha Devi Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, some of which are:

1. Navratri: Navratri is a nine-day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is celebrated with great enthusiasm at Tarkulha Devi Temple. During Navratri, the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees perform special pujas and rituals to seek the blessings of the goddess.
2. Dussehra: Dussehra is a ten-day festival that culminates in the celebration of Vijayadashami, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. At Tarkulha Devi Temple, a special Dussehra procession is held, and an effigy of Ravana is burnt to signify the triumph of good over evil.
3. Diwali: Diwali is a five-day festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness. At Tarkulha Devi Temple, the temple is decorated with lights and diyas, and devotees offer prayers to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
4. Holi: Holi is a colorful festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. At Tarkulha Devi Temple, devotees celebrate Holi by throwing colors and flowers and singing devotional songs.
5. Maha Shivratri: Maha Shivratri is a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. At Tarkulha Devi Temple, devotees offer special prayers and perform pujas to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Apart from these festivals, other important events such as Hanuman Jayanti, Janmashtami, and Ram Navami are also celebrated at Tarkulha Devi Temple with great fervor and enthusiasm.

Tarkulha Devi Temple is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a popular religious site and there are several attractions near the temple that you can visit. Here are some of the top attractions near Tarkulha Devi Temple:

1. Chitrakoot: Chitrakoot is a town located near Tarkulha Devi Temple, known for its religious significance and natural beauty. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama spent his exile period. There are several temples and ghats in Chitrakoot that you can visit.
2. Bharat Milap Temple: The Bharat Milap Temple is located in the Chitrakoot district near Tarkulha Devi Temple. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is dedicated to the reunion of Lord Rama and his brother Bharat.
3. Gupt Godavari Caves: The Gupt Godavari Caves are a series of caves located near Tarkulha Devi Temple. These caves are believed to be the hiding place of Lord Rama and Lakshmana during their exile period.
4. Kamadgiri Temple: The Kamadgiri Temple is located in the heart of Chitrakoot and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in the town. It is believed that a visit to this temple can fulfill all your desires.
5. Ramghat: Ramghat is a popular ghat located in Chitrakoot. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama took a dip in the river to wash away his sins. The ghat is also known for its scenic beauty.
6. Hanuman Dhara Temple: The Hanuman Dhara Temple is located on the top of a hill near Tarkulha Devi Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is known for its beautiful waterfall.
7. Sati Anusuya Ashram: The Sati Anusuya Ashram is located near Tarkulha Devi Temple and is believed to be the ashram where the sage Atri and his wife Anusuya lived. It is a peaceful place surrounded by natural beauty.

Tarkulha Devi Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in Tarkulha village, about 20 km from Gorakhpur city in Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, and is considered a sacred site by the locals. Here are some things to do in Tarkulha Devi Temple:

1. Worship at the temple: The main attraction of Tarkulha Devi Temple is the worship of the Goddess Kali. You can offer flowers, coconut, and sweets to the deity as a sign of devotion.
2. Participate in the aarti: The aarti is a daily ritual where devotees gather in the temple to sing hymns and offer prayers to the goddess. You can participate in the aarti, which takes place twice a day, at sunrise and sunset.
3. Take a dip in the Tarkulha Kund: The temple is situated near the Tarkulha Kund, which is believed to be a holy water body. It is said that taking a dip in the kund can wash away one's sins and purify the soul.
4. Explore the surroundings: Tarkulha village is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. You can take a walk around the village and enjoy the natural beauty of the place.
5. Attend the annual fair: Tarkulha Devi Temple hosts an annual fair during the Navratri festival. The fair attracts a large number of devotees from all over the region and is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
6. Visit nearby attractions: Gorakhpur city, which is located about 20 km from Tarkulha village, has several other attractions that you can visit. These include the Gorakhnath Temple, Kushmi Forest Reserve, and the Chauri Chaura Memorial.

The best time to visit Tarkulha Devi Temple is during the winter season, which runs from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant, with cool temperatures and clear skies. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the surroundings and taking a dip in the Tarkulha Kund.

Visiting the temple during the Navratri festival, which usually falls in October, is also a good option as it is a time of great festivity and celebration. The temple hosts an annual fair during this time, which attracts a large number of devotees from all over the region.

It is advisable to avoid visiting the temple during the summer season, which runs from April to June, as the temperatures can soar and make it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Additionally, the monsoon season, which runs from July to September, can bring heavy rainfall, which may make it difficult to explore the surroundings.