Tehri Garhwal Early History and Ancient References of the District

Tehri Garhwal Early History

Tehri Garhwal Early History : Tehri Garhwal district, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Several ancient texts make references to this region, providing insights into its early history. In this article, we explore some of these ancient references and what they tell us about early Tehri Garhwal.

References in the Mahabharata

The Upayana Parva book of the Mahabharata makes references to the hill tribes that inhabited the land that is now Tehri Garhwal district. It mentions tribes like the Kiratas, Uttara Kurus, Khasas, Tanganas, Kunindas and Pratanganas living in this region. This indicates that Tehri Garhwal was inhabited since ancient times by these local hill tribes.

The Mahabharata also states that the sage Jada Bharata performed penances in the region of present-day Uttarkashi, which falls under Tehri Garhwal district. This suggests that the district was considered a sacred land ideal for spiritual practices since ancient times.

References in Skanda Purana

The Kedar Khand section of the Skanda Purana, dated to the 6-7th CE, makes references to Uttarkashi and the rivers Bhagirathi, Jahnavi and Bhilangana flowing through Tehri Garhwal. This confirms that the region was well-known by the name Uttarkashi in ancient times. The naming of the rivers also demonstrates the district’s significance.

References in the Himalayan Gazetteer

The Himalayan Gazetteer, a British historical record, provides information on the early history of Tehri Garhwal region. It states that the district was part of the Gharwal Kingdom ruled by the Garhwal Dynasty from the 8th to 15th CE. The Gazetteer notes that the region was referred to as the “strongest Garh” among the 52 garhs (forts) of the Garhwal Kingdom. This points to the strategic importance of Tehri region from medieval times onwards.

Conclusion to Tehri Garhwal Early History

Tehri Garhwal Early History : Through references in the Mahabharata, Skanda Purana and British records, we know that Tehri Garhwal district was inhabited since ancient times by local hill tribes. It emerged as a strategic region under the Garhwal Kingdom during the medieval period. The district was also considered a sacred site for spiritual activity. More archaeological exploration can reveal richer details about Tehri’s early history.