Birth & Devotion

Ghantakarna was born as a powerful demon, but his heart belonged entirely to Lord Shiva. His devotion was so profound and exclusive that he wore large bells (ghanta) on his ears to avoid hearing any other god's name. From this practice comes his name—Ghantakarna, the "bell-eared" one.

Divine Blessing

Pleased by such unconditional devotion, Lord Shiva granted Ghantakarna his darshan and offered him a boon. Ghantakarna humbly asked for liberation (moksha). Shiva directed him to seek Lord Vishnu, who appeared as Narayan and liberated him from his demon form.

Divine Appointment

Following his liberation, Lord Narayan appointed Ghantakarna as the official guardian (kshetrapal) and gate-keeper of Badrinath Dham. Just as Bhairava guards Kedarnath, Ghantakarna became the divine protector and divine sentinel of the sacred Badrinath pilgrimage site.

Popular Veneration

Today, Ghantakarna is revered across Uttarakhand as Ghandiyal Devta—worshipped as Rashak Devta (divine protector). He is also believed to be an incarnation of Abhimanyu from the Mahabharata. Devotees invoke his protection against evil, calamities, and seek his blessings for prosperity and safety.

Guardian Deity

Revered as the divine guardian of Badrinath pilgrimage and protector of Garhwal villages

Second Parikrama

After Badrinath darshan, pilgrims perform the second sacred circumambulation here

Himalayan Sanctuary

Perched at 2500m with panoramic views of Haridwar valley and sacred peaks

Gaja Ghantakarna Mahotsav

Annual Observances

• • Mahashivratri: Night-long vigil and special prayers
• • Navratri: Nine days of goddess worship
• • Diwali: Festival of lights celebration
• • Ganga Dussehra: Holy day of river Ganga
• • Daily Aartis: Morning and evening worship services