NTI (Pauri Garhwal): The historic Rahu Temple in Paithani village of Pauri district is being fast-tracked for development into a world-class pilgrimage and tourism destination. With active construction and heritage preservation works underway, District Magistrate Swati S. Bhadouria conducted an on-site inspection to review the progress of ongoing development activities at the temple complex. Located in the scenic hills of Paithani, the Rahu Temple holds immense religious and historical significance as one of the rare temples dedicated to Rahu (one of the Navagrahas). The comprehensive renovation and development initiative is being realized by the Pauri district administration under the vision of Garhwal MP Anil Baluni, with full cooperation from the temple committee. Technical assessments and inspections by engineering teams have been completed in multiple phases to develop the site as a global religious and tourism center. Necessary funds have been sanctioned at the district level, and works are progressing in a systematic manner.
The project aims to create a divine, grand, and world-class religious site. Key features include a vast courtyard, an attractive parikrama path (circumambulation walkway), waiting rooms, restrooms, shoe racks, benches, and other modern amenities for devotees. The DM emphasized widening and strengthening the approach road from the main highway to the temple, while ensuring the under-construction entrance gate reflects traditional Himalayan architectural style. She directed that the stairs leading to the temple be widened as much as possible and suitable parking areas be identified, keeping devotee convenience in mind.
DM Pauri, Swati Bhadouria stressed that the mythological, religious, and natural essence of the site must be fully preserved during development. She also inspected the under-construction ghat (steps to the water body) and instructed the installation of railings around the Rahu Shila (sacred rock) to create a safe platform, along with the construction of a bridge for better accessibility.
