Sivananda Ashram
Sidhbali temple is a revered Hindu shrine in the picturesque hill town of Kotdwar in Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, whom the locals worship as Sidhbali or 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.
Several other attractions in the vicinity are worth visiting. 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.
Places To Visit Near Sivananda Ashram:
Rishikesh:
Approximately 14 kilometres from Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh is a renowned spiritual destination and the "Yoga Capital of the World." It is situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River and offers numerous ashrams, temples, and yoga centres. Visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, and indulge in yoga and meditation sessions.
Haridwar:
Haridwar is a Hindu pilgrimage site situated about 30 kilometres from Sivananda Ashram. It is famous for its ghats along the Ganges River, where devotees take holy dips to cleanse their sins. Witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri, visit the various temples, and explore the bustling markets.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:
Located approximately 20 kilometres from Sivananda Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated amidst the lush green forests of the Himalayas. The temple holds great religious significance, and the scenic trek to reach the temple is an enriching experience.
Kunjapuri Temple:
About 36 kilometres from Sivananda Ashram, Kunjapuri Temple is perched on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the sunrise. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is considered a Shakti Peeth. It is a popular spot for sunrise or sunset visits and meditation.
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia):
Located approximately 8 kilometres from Sivananda Ashram, the Beatles Ashram is a site associated with the famous English rock band, The Beatles. The band members stayed in the late 1960s in the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram. The ashram is now abandoned but holds historical and cultural significance.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram:
Situated in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan Ashram is one of the area's largest and most renowned ashrams. It offers yoga and meditation classes, spiritual discourses, and a tranquil atmosphere for self-reflection. Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at the ashram's ghat, which is a captivating spiritual experience.
Nearby Places
