Nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, overlooking the vibrant plains of Uttarakhand and Nepal, stands the revered Purnagiri Temple, a sacred Shaktipeeth dedicated to Maa Purnagiri, a fierce and benevolent manifestation of Goddess Durga. Located near Tanakpur in Champawat district, this temple is a powerful center of faith, miracles, and divine fulfillment for millions of devotees.

The Legend of Purnagiri

Purnagiri is counted among the 108 Shaktipeeths mentioned in Hindu scriptures. According to the legend of Sati and Shiva, when Goddess Sati self-immolated in Daksha’s yagna, Lord Shiva carried her burning body across the universe. As her body parts fell on the earth, each site became a sacred Shaktipeeth.

At Purnagiri, it is believed that Sati’s navel (nabhi) fell, making this location spiritually potent. “Purna” means complete or full, and “Giri” means mountain, signifying the Goddess of completeness and fulfillment.

The Temple and Its Divine Setting

The Purnagiri Temple sits atop a hill at an altitude of 3,000 feet, about 20 km from Tanakpur, near the Kali River. It offers a commanding view of the green Himalayan foothills, river valleys, and the bordering country of Nepal.

To reach the temple, one must:

• First travel to Tanakpur, a bustling pilgrimage town

• Then journey by road to Tunyas, followed by a 3 km uphill trek

• The trek is scenic and lined with shops, rest points, and smaller shrines

The final climb to the temple is steep but spiritually rewarding. Pilgrims often chant “Jai Maa Purnagiri” as they walk, driven by faith and hope.

Spiritual Importance

Maa Purnagiri is known as the goddess of wishes fulfilled. Devotees believe that offering sincere prayers here brings:

• Victory in court cases

• Relief from illnesses

• Children to childless couples

• Peace, protection, and prosperity

Many devotees tie threads or flags near the temple after making a wish and return to untie them when it comes true — a powerful symbol of faith and fulfillment.

Fairs and Festivals

Purnagiri Mela:

• Held during Navratri (March–April) every year

• One of the biggest religious gatherings in the region, drawing lakhs of devotees from Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Nepal

• The fair lasts over a month with spiritual events, bhajans, bhandaras, and cultural programs

Other significant festivals include:

• Chaitra Navratri

• Ashwin Navratri

• Makar Sankranti and Kartik Purnima

How to Reach Purnagiri Temple

• Nearest Town: Tanakpur (20 km from the temple base)

• Nearest Railway Station: Tanakpur – well connected to Delhi, Bareilly, and Lucknow

• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (~100 km)

• By Road: Easily accessible by buses and taxis from Haldwani, Champawat, and other nearby towns

Travel Tips

•  Wear comfortable shoes – the trek is steep in parts

•  Carry water, a cap, and some snacks during the climb

•  Follow local customs – no leather items, modest clothing, and respect for fellow pilgrims

• Best time to visit: February to May (pleasant weather and festival season)

A Journey of Faith and Fulfillment

The Purnagiri Temple is not just a destination — it’s a divine journey of belief, blessings, and inner peace. From the sound of temple bells to the chanting of mantras, and from the tough climb to the joy of darshan, every step taken here is infused with devotion and hope.