Spiritual · Ranikhet, Kumaon
Bells of the Jhula Devi temple
On the road from Ranikhet to Chaubatia, the Jhula Devi temple is hung with thousands of bells offered by devotees. It is a short, atmospheric stop that shows how local faith in Kumaon is expressed through offerings of brass.
Photo: Mrneutrino · CC BY-SA 3.0 · CommonsThe temple is dedicated to a form of the goddess Durga, shown seated on a swing, which gives it the name Jhula Devi. Local belief holds that the goddess protects the area from wild animals. Devotees who have a wish granted return to tie a bell, and over the years the bells have filled the temple's railings and roof.
The temple is small and set among trees on the Chaubatia road, a few kilometres from Ranikhet. It is busiest on Navratri and festival days. Nearby there is also a Ram temple, and the road continues to the orchards at Chaubatia.
Remove shoes before entering, and keep photographs respectful, especially during prayers. Do not ring bells continuously or take them. Monkeys gather near the temple, so keep food out of sight. Combine with Chaubatia for an easy half-day outing from Ranikhet.
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Questions
Before you book
Why does Jhula Devi temple have so many bells?
Devotees tie a bell when a wish is fulfilled. Over decades thousands of bells have collected along the railings and roof, a custom shared with other Kumaoni temples such as Chitai near Almora.
How far is Jhula Devi from Ranikhet?
It is a few kilometres from Ranikhet on the Chaubatia road, about 15 minutes by taxi. It is usually combined with the Chaubatia orchards.
What is the story of Jhula Devi?
The goddess is shown seated on a swing, jhula, giving the temple its name. Local tradition credits her with protecting villagers and cattle from wild animals in the forests around Ranikhet.