Ashok Sharma Sarthal Mata,also known as Ashta dash Bhuja Mata, is considered as the re-incarnation of Goddess Durga, with 18 arms. She is the Chief Deity of Hindus in Kishtwar and adjoining regions.Originally made from the stones by locals under patronage of Raja Agar Dev of Kishtwar, this holy temple was renovated by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1936 from the wood of Dayalwan and Deviyun-van forests.
The temple,built in the Pahari style,has the idol of Mata Sarthal Devi Ji in the Garbhgriha.There are inns adjoining the temple for providing accommodation to the pilgrims.The Goddess is revered as the Kuldevi of many clans.
Located at approximately 6000 feet, this scenic temple,located at a distance of about 30 Kms from Kishtwar District Headquarters is covered with snow during winters. A number of peaks in the Pir Panjal Range are visible from the temple. It is connected by a vehicular road which takes off from Hasti, 11 kms ahead of Kishtwar town.
The holy shrine is located amidst beautiful mountain ranges, lush green fields and charming surroundings endowed with breathtaking beauty. This sacred shrine site has a cluster of villages and habitations like Agral, Sarthal proper, Lawa, Karool etc in its vicinity.The temple is situated on the top of a hillock and the devotees have to ascend steep stairs to reach the top.
THE LEGEND The local legend goes that Shri Paul who was the first saint from Kishtwar region, instructed his disciples to worship goddess Durga in the form of Divine Moth.