Vanshi Narayan Temple is nestled in the picturesque Urgam Valley of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Vanshi Narayan. The temple remains closed throughout the year and opens for devotees on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

India is home to several temples with unique traditions, but Vanshi Narayan Mandir in Uttarakhand stands out for a particularly rare practice. Tucked away in the serene foothills of the Himalayan mountain ranges, Uttarakhand is often referred to as 'Devbhumi' or the land of gods due to the numerous temples and pilgrimage sites found in the state, which has its own historical significance. Among them is Vanshi Narayan Mandir, often called Banshi Narayan Temple. Located in the scenic Chamoli district, this 8th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu opens just once every year on the occasion of Shravan Purnima, that is, Raksha Bandhan. Found it interesting? Keep on reading to know more.

Why does Vanshi Narayan Mandir open only on Raksha Bandhan?

Vanshi Narayan Temple is nestled in the picturesque Urgam Valley of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Vanshi Narayan. The temple remains closed throughout the year and opens for devotees on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. Located at an altitude of 13,000 feet above sea level, this temple is situated in the Urgam Valley in the Joshimath development block of the district.

It is believed that for the remaining 364 days, Devarshi Narada himself worships Lord Narayana in this temple, and humans get the privilege of worshipping only on the day of Raksha Bandhan.