Tucked deep in the serene Himalayan folds of Champawat district, Uttarakhand, lies a powerful and ancient temple dedicated to Maa Varahi Devi — a fierce and protective form of the Divine Mother Durga, depicted in her rare boar-headed avatar. The Varahi Devi Temple is not just a spiritual site; it is a portal to divine feminine power, tantric mysticism, and ancient Himalayan worship.

This sacred temple remains one of Uttarakhand’s lesser-known spiritual gems, drawing seekers of Shakti, silence, and sadhana.

Who is Maa Varahi?

Varahi Devi is the fifth among the Sapta Matrikas (seven mother goddesses) in Hindu tradition. She is the Shakti (divine energy) of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. As such, Varahi combines both Vaishnav and Shakta elements — representing protection, power, destruction of negativity, and secret tantric knowledge.

Maa Varahi is often associated with:

• Tantra and esoteric wisdom

• Night worship and moon energy

• Victory over demonic forces

She is worshipped as a guardian of the cosmos, often in temples located in hidden, forested, or elevated regions — and the Varahi Devi Temple in Uttarakhand is one such mystical space.

The Temple’s Location and Energy

The Varahi Devi Temple is located in Devidhura, near the border of Champawat and Almora districts, surrounded by dense forests, mountains, and spiritual serenity. The temple is housed within the Bheem Dwar complex, which is also associated with the Pandavas of the Mahabharata.

This temple is famous for:

• Its intensely charged spiritual vibrations

• Ancient stone architecture and natural surroundings

• The ritual of Bagwal — a traditional festival involving symbolic stone battles, now performed in safer, symbolic forms

The temple is particularly significant to tantric practitioners, yogis, and spiritual seekers following the path of Shakta sadhana.

The Bagwal Festival – Ritual of Courage and Faith

One of the most unique and fierce traditions associated with the Varahi Devi Temple is the Bagwal festival, celebrated during Raksha Bandhan.

Bagwal Highlights:

• Four clans of the region participate in a ritualistic stone battle in the courtyard of the temple

• It is believed to be a symbolic offering of blood to Maa Varahi for the fulfillment of wishes and protection

• In recent years, this has been modified into a symbolic and safer cultural demonstration, preserving its spiritual essence while ensuring safety

The Bagwal is not only a test of faith and valor, but also a cultural spectacle that draws thousands of devotees and tourists each year.

Worship and Rituals

Maa Varahi is worshipped primarily at night, and her puja is performed with:

• Red flowers, sesame oil, sindoor, and meat or symbolic offerings (depending on the devotee’s tradition)

• Chants of the Varahi mantras, often whispered or kept secret due to their tantric nature

• Offerings for removal of fear, protection from enemies, and spiritual empowerment

Only those with pure intentions and devotion are believed to receive her blessings, as she is both compassionate and fiercely protective.

How to Reach Varahi Devi Temple

• Location: Devidhura, near Lohaghat in Champawat district, Uttarakhand

• Nearest Town: Lohaghat (~20 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Tanakpur (~90 km)

• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (~170 km)

• By Road: Well connected to Haldwani, Champawat, and Almora

A short uphill walk is required to reach the temple premises, surrounded by deodar and pine trees.

Best Time to Visit

• August (Raksha Bandhan): To witness the Bagwal Festival

• March to June: Ideal weather for spiritual retreat and forest walks

• October to November: Serene post-monsoon beauty and clear mountain views

Travel Tips

• Maintain silence and spiritual discipline around the temple

• Bagwal festival days are crowded – plan in advance and arrive early

• Avoid wearing leather items; dress modestly in temple premises

• Respect the locals and participate mindfully in cultural rituals