Image Source: Nishant Barul
About Shrai Koti Temple
| Location | Rampur Bushahr, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
| Deity Worshipped | Goddess Durga |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June, September to November |
| Temple Timings | 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Trek Distance | Short trek from the main road |
| Accessibility | Located 55 km from Shimla |
In India, usually married couples visit the temple to take blessings from the god.But sometimes Indian culture and mythology are built on such a diverse theme that they oppose the orthodox theme. Durga Mata Temple, or Shrai Koti Temple, is a renowned temple located in Rampur Bushahr, Himachal Pradesh. The temple is famous for the belief and rule that husband and wife cannot worship together. It is considered inauspicious, which brings misfortune to the couples.
For anyone who visits the temple, the first thing that arises in mind is: Why is this the case ? Well, the answer lies in the mythology that revolves around the family of Lord Shiva.
Mythology
Once, Shiva asked Kartikeya and Ganesha to complete one revolution in the universe. Kartikeya started the journey of the universe, whereas Lord Ganesha started revolving around his parents, Shiva and Paravati. He considers his parents to be the world. On returning, Kartikeya found Lord Ganesha lying on the feet of Shiva and Paravati and got enraged. He resolved not to marry in the future. When the Lord Parvati got to know about all this, she got upset with his vow.
She cursed that anyone who visits the temple will be separated in the future. Hence, from there on, the temple becomes ominous for the couples.
Architecture
Image Source: Kartik Thakur
Built in the Pahadi style, the temple is made from the construction materials of stone and wood. It was renovated in the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony held on 3, 2023.
How To Reach
By Road
Shrai Koti Temple is well-connected by road.
| Shimla | 172 km |
| Solan | 214 km |
| Chandigarh | 280 km |
| Delhi | 587 km |
| Dehradun | 392 km |
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station, 55 km
By Air
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (Jubberhatti) – 65 km