12 Sacred Groves & Mystical Forests Revered by Ancient Cultures

12. Deoban Forest, Uttarakhand, Himalayas, India: "Forest of the Gods"

In the Garhwal Himalayas, "Deoban" translates to "Forest of the Gods," primarily referring to its magnificent Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara – "Timber of the Gods") trees. These towering, fragrant cedars are sacred in Hinduism, believed to be favored by Lord Shiva. Such forests were often chosen by rishis (sages) for meditation due to their profound serenity and spiritual atmosphere. The ingenious belief that gods inhabit these trees ensured their protection for centuries, preserving these vital high-altitude ecosystems as natural sanctuaries of immense peace and divine presence.