The idol, considered as re-incarnation of Goddess Durga, was originally carved from stones by locals during the Raja Agar Dev of the Kishtwar period and later, renovated by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1936.
[1] According to the local legend, Shri Paul who was the first saint from Kishtwar region, had directed his disciples to worship goddess durga in the form of Mother with 18 Arms.
King Agar Dev of Kishtwar is then believed to send his courtiers to make a temple for the idol at an appropriate place.
It is said that the Idol became too heavy to be carried beyond its present abode at Sarthal where a Stone Temple was constructed.
An Inn (Dharamshala) has been constructed next to the temple where pilgrims can stay for the night at nominal payments.