Sidhbali temple is a revered Hindu shrine in the picturesque hill town of Kotdwar in Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, worshipped by the locals as Sidhbali or the one who fulfils all wishes. The temple is perched on a hilltop at an altitude of 1,100 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The temple is believed to have been built during the 8th century AD and is one of the oldest temples in the region. It is said that the idol of Lord Hanuman was discovered by a group of local shepherds who were grazing their cattle in the forests. The model was found lying under a tree, and the shepherds decided to build a temple at the same spot to worship the deity.
The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Lord Hanuman's devotees and attracts many visitors yearly. The temple complex includes the main shrine of Lord Hanuman and smaller shrines dedicated to other deities like Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, and Lord Ganesha.
The temple's highlight is the magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman, which is around 20 feet tall and made of white marble. The figure is a visual treat and is considered one of the country's most impressive representations of Lord Hanuman. The temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings on the walls.
One of the most popular attractions is the Kaleshwar Mahadev temple, just a few kilometres from the Sidhbali temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built during the 14th century. The temple is known for its serene ambience and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Kanvashram is located around 12 kilometres from the Sidhbali temple. The ashram is said to be the meditation site of Sage Kanva, who is believed to have composed many of the hymns in the Rigveda. The ashram is a peaceful retreat and offers a glimpse into the ancient Hindu way of life.
The Sidhbali temple is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Kotdwar or the nearby areas in Uttarakhand. The temple's serene ambience, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views make it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike.
Located around 12 km from Kotdwar, Kanvashram is a popular religious site known for its association with the sage Kanva. The site is also home to a beautiful waterfall and offers great opportunities for trekking.
This temple is located around 23 km from Kotdwar and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple is set amidst lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Located around 35 km from Kotdwar, Lansdowne is a quiet hill station known for its natural beauty. The town has several scenic spots, including Bhim Pakora, Tip n Top, and St. Mary's Church.
Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple:
Located around 70 km from Kotdwar, the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is set amidst dense forests and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Pauri:
Located around 80 km from Kotdwar, Pauri is a scenic hill station known for its natural beauty. The town has several temples, including the Kandoliya Temple and the Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple.
These are just a few places you can visit near Sidhbali Temple in Uttarakhand. There are several other temples, hill stations, and scenic spots that you can explore in the region.