Nadbudh Bhairava Temple is located in the peaceful village of Molthi, in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The temple stands on a serene hill surrounded by dense forests and the scenic beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Nadbudh Bhairava, a fierce and powerful form of Lord Shiva. Bhairava here is worshipped as the guardian deity (Kshetrapal) of the Molthi region. The name “Nadbudh” means one who awakens consciousness through sound or wisdom.
The Nadbudh Bhairava Temple is believed to be several centuries old, dating back to the early medieval period of Garhwal. The exact date of its construction is not known, but local traditions and oral legends say that the temple was established by the ancient kings of Garhwal or by early spiritual ascetics who worshipped Lord Bhairava as the fierce protector of the region. It is regarded as one of the most powerful Bhairava temples in Uttarakhand, deeply revered by locals for its miraculous powers and protective energy.
The temple follows the typical Garhwali hill architecture, constructed mainly from stone and wood. It has a pyramidal roof, and the sanctum (garbhagriha) houses the idol of Nadbudh Bhairava. The structure is simple yet sacred, reflecting the ancient Himalayan style of temple construction suited for cold mountain conditions. The temple premises are surrounded by old trees and small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Kali, and local deities (Gram Devtas). The bells tied around the temple by devotees symbolize fulfilled wishes and prayers.
According to local history, the temple of Nadbudh Bhairava was established by the early Garhwal rulers or local chiefs who sought divine protection for their kingdom. Legends mention that when this region faced recurring attacks from enemies and wild animals, a sage had a divine vision of Lord Bhairava commanding him to build a shrine at Molthi to safeguard the land. Since then, villagers and devotees have worshipped Nadbudh Bhairava as their protector. The temple has withstood earthquakes and natural calamities, and the deity is believed to have protected the area many times from disasters and epidemics.
As per the Sthalapurana or local legend, many centuries ago, demons and evil spirits troubled the villages in the Molthi region. Crops failed, livestock died, and fear spread among the people. A devout saint prayed intensely to Lord Shiva on the nearby hilltop. Pleased by his devotion, Lord Shiva manifested as Nadbudh Bhairava, the fierce guardian form who roared from the mountains and drove away all negative forces. The name Nadbudh comes from the divine “sound of wisdom” (Nada + Buddhi) that emanated during his manifestation. Since then, Lord Bhairava has been worshipped here as the protector and healer of the region. It is also said that when the deity is angry, strong winds and storms occur, which locals interpret as Bhairava’s warning.
The main festival celebrated here is the Bhairava Ashtami, observed in November–December, marking the appearance day of Lord Bhairava. During this time, devotees from nearby villages and towns gather for special poojas, drumming, and traditional Garhwali folk dances. Offerings of rice, flowers, coconuts, and sometimes symbolic animal offerings are made to please the deity. A grand fair (mela) takes place once a year, where devotees seek the blessings of Nadbudh Bhairava for protection and prosperity. Every Monday and Saturday, special prayers and oil lamps are offered, as these days are considered auspicious for Lord Bhairav
