Kotdwar

Kotdwar is located at the foothills of the Shivaliks at a distance of 101kms from Pauri. It is situated at a height of 395m above sea level. Kotdwar literally means gateway to Garhwal. Kotdwar is famous for its several temples like the Siddhbali temple which is located at a distance of 2kms from Kotdwar. Sidhbali temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is visited by hundreds of devotees all round the year. The Durga Devi temple is also located at a distance of 2kms from Kotdwar and is one of the most popular temples of the region. The Medanpuri temple is situated at a height of 1657m above sea level and is popularly known as the Medanpuri Devi temple. Medan literally means curd and it is believed that the Goddess showers blessings upon her devotees with curd and milk. The legend that does the round is that Goddess appeared in a curd-bowl in the fireplace of a family living in Marora village. It is to the family that she revealed that where she would appear and a temple in her honour was built on exactly that location.

During Navratras, special puja and offerings are made. Koteshwar Mahadev is thronged by devotees especially by childless couples. The temple is surrounded by the Himalayan ranges to the east, Haridwar to the west, and Sidha Peeth Medanpuri Devi Temple to the south. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that if childless couple chant the Mahamritunjaya manta the while month with faith and devotion are blessed with a child.

Kotdwar is well connected by rail network to places like Lucknow, Delhi and Howrah. It also has an excellent road network. You can buy handicrafts and souvenirs from Malni market, and District Board Shopping Centre.