Just like the Jageshwar Dham is known for the ancient Shiva temples amid the famous deodar trees, the Chitai Golu Devta temple in Almora is equally sacred. Quite a short drive away from the Jageshwar Dham, this unique temple is famed not for its architecture but for the divine courtroom atmosphere it creates.
Now that you have decided to take up a spiritual itinerary across Uttarakhand in general and around Bhimtal in particular, how about checking out the temple and its details?
Who is Golu Devta – An overview
Golu Devta is a popular local deity in Uttarakhand, especially in the Kumaon region. The deity is known to be a manifestation of Bhagwan Shiva and is believed for his justice-giving abilities.
There are several temples dedicated to Golu Devta across the Kumaon region. However, the two temples have been quite popular for their divine presence. One of them is the Ghorakhal Golu Devta temple, and the second one is the one we will visit today – the Chital Golu Devta temple.
Regarded as the “God of Justice,” he is deeply worshipped by the local people and devotees from far and wide who come here to seek truth, fairness, and resolution in their lives.
Legend says Golu Devta was a brave general and king from the Chand dynasty. His unwavering commitment to justice and equality earned him divine status after his death, and his shrine today stands as a testament to those values.
Mythological & Historical Significance
Golu Devta is considered to be the incarnation of Bhagwan Shiva. Some legends consider the deity to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva’s son, Kshetrapal. He was a just and brave ruler of the Chand dynasty. In fact, he was deified because of his commitment to justice.
It is believed that the Golu Devta delivers justice even when the human system fails. People believe that if they write to him with a pure heart, he ensures the right outcome, even in court cases or family disputes.
It’s said that many have returned to the temple to offer thanks with bells or letters of gratitude, resulting in the thousands of bells adorning the temple compound today.
Architectural Highlights
There is nothing highly specific and wonderful about the temple when it comes to the temple architecture. However, the real charm of the temple lies in its simplicity and symbolic décor.
The main temple comes with a Kumaoni style of temple construction. You will find it has a sloping roof and wood-carved interiors. But, one aspect will attract you here – walls, trees, and fences covered with white papers — petitions, court documents, school applications, and emotional handwritten letters. All of them were addressed to Golu Devta for justice.
You will also find hundreds of bells at every corner of the temple. They are all offerings from devotees whose prayers have been answered.
Location and setting
The Chital Golu Devta temple is located around 9 km from Almora. You can reach it in just under 25 minutes via NH 309B and L R Sah Road. In fact, it is on the way to Jageshwar Dham. Unlike the dense deodar forest of Jageshwar, Chitai is surrounded by lush pine forests and offers an expansive view of the hills.
Set against a serene mountain backdrop, the temple exudes a rustic charm that blends divinity with simplicity. The journey to the temple, whether by car, scooter, or on foot, is a scenic drive through Kumaon’s rich cultural landscape, dotted with small shrines, fruit orchards, and panoramic valleys.
Distance from major cities:
- Almora – 9 km distance, which should take around 15–20 minutes by road.
- Nainital – 73 km and takes around 2 and a half hours to reach
- Bhimtal – 72 km distance that can be covered in and a half hours.
How to Reach Chitai Golu Temple?
The temple is well-connected by road, rail, and air. You can choose an option based on your specific needs.
- By Road: The temple is well-connected by road from Almora, Nainital, and Haldwani. Local buses, shared jeeps, and taxis are easily available. For comfort and flexibility, hiring a private cab is ideal.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport. From there, you can take a cab to Almora and then to the temple.
- By Rail: The nearest major railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station. From here, taxis and buses are available to reach Almora and then the Chitai Temple.
Best Time to Visit
The Golu Devta temple is open all through the year. Each of the seasons is known for a different atmosphere.
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant and breezy, perfect for exploring.
- Monsoon (July to September): Lush green surroundings, but occasional rain may hinder travel.
- Winter (October to February): Cold and peaceful; light fog adds to the mystic appeal.
Tip: Visit during the Navratri Festival or local fairs for a more vibrant and devotional experience.
Things to Do & Experiences
Though modest in size, Chitai Temple offers powerful spiritual and cultural experiences:
- Write a letter to Golu Devta: Share your wishes or problems. Many believe that the divine responds in time.
- Tie a bell in gratitude: If your prayers are answered, return and tie a bell as a gesture of thanks.
- Explore the letter-covered walls: Reading the heartfelt letters can be a deeply emotional and humanizing experience.
- Spend time in quiet reflection: The temple’s surroundings are ideal for meditation and introspection.
- Walk through nearby trails: Surrounded by pine forests, the walks around the temple are serene and scenic.
Tips for Your Visit
To ensure a respectful and fulfilling visit to Chitai Golu Devta Temple, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress modestly out of respect for the sanctity of the temple.
- Be mindful with photography: Ask before clicking pictures of the inner sanctum or written petitions.
- Visit in the morning or evening: You’ll avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Do not litter: Help preserve the natural and spiritual purity of the area.
- Carry water and light snacks: Facilities are limited near the temple.
Where to Stay?
Almora offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to boutique homestays. Staying in Almora also gives you access to other attractions like Jageshwar Dham, Binsar Mahadev , and Kasar Devi.
For a more comfortable and scenic stay, our Chirping Hills Resort in Bhimtal is just around 95 km from the temple, offering excellent service and assistance in planning day trips to Almora and Chitai.
Nearby Attractions
There are several attractions around the Chitai Golu Devta temple. You can enhance your journey by exploring nearby spiritual and natural destinations.
- Jageshwar Dham (36 km): A stunning group of ancient Shiva temples set amidst deodar forests.
- Kasar Devi Temple (12 km): Famous for its magnetic energy field and spiritual significance.
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (35 km): Ideal for trekking and spotting Himalayan wildlife.
- Almora Town (8 km): Shop for local crafts, enjoy Kumaoni food, and explore traditional architecture.
Conclusion
Are you ready to put your faith into words and send your wishes to a divine listener?
Chitai Golu Temple is not just a temple — it’s a deeply moving space where justice, devotion, and tradition meet. It’s a place where hopes are pinned not just on a wall but on faith itself.
Whether you come seeking resolution, peace, or simply a new perspective, Chitai welcomes you with open arms and sacred silence.
Let your prayers ring through the temple bells. Let your faith find its voice in a handwritten letter. We at Chirping Hills Resort ensure that your visit to Almora and Chitai is nothing short of spiritual rejuvenation.