Jhula Devi Temple, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand India

One of the ancient temples in Uttarakhand dating back to the 8th century, Jhula Devi Temple is situated on the Kumaon hill, in a quiet and secluded environment. The main deity of this temple is Goddess Durga, and it is said that the temple was built to seek Goddess Durga’s protection from the wild animals that inhabited this place.

Jhula Devi temple is a place of attraction at Ranikhet hill Station. It is situated at a distance of 7 km from the town of Ranikhet near Chaubatia Gardens in Almora district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The Present Temple complex was constructed in 1935. The countless bells that hang around the temple compound are a testimony to the divine and the healing powers of "Maa Jhula Devi".

The story goes that the idol of Goddess Durga was dug out from a patch of ground by a shepherd, after being guided so by the goddess herself in his dream. The Jhula Devi Temple of Ranikhet is made on that particular spot from where this idol was found.

The fascinating feature of the Jhula Devi Temple is the impressive cluster of numerous holy bells, which are tied to its walls, and Jhula Devi is known to bless her devotees and grant their wishes. The people of Uttarakhand hold Jhula Devi in high esteem and believe that your wishes come true each time you tie a bell at the temple.

So many bells have now been hung up and clumped together in the interiors and exteriors of the temple. In the course of time, these bronze bells have started piling up in one corner of the temple, which looks like a junk heap of bells. The reverberations of these bells are heard till a very long distance.

The backdrop at the temple is exquisite and the panoramic view of the far-off mountains and hills is enchanting. Many devotees swarm to this temple to seek blessings and offer their prayers. A temple dedicated to Lord Ram, known as Ram Mandir, resides atop the Jhula Devi Temple and is an added attraction.

Jhula Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga is just about 7 km from Ranikhet. This secluded temple has beautiful bells, echoes of which can be heard from some distance. Nearby is a temple of Lord Rama.