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12/Feb/2023

Manasarovar is a lake located in Tibet. The mountain known to Tibetans as Kang Ringpoche known in the West as Kailas, from Sanskrit Kailash, and the Western understanding of that mountain and its tributary lake, Manasarovar, come from Indian sources.

Kailash Manasarovar spread over an area of about 320 square kilometers. Mount Kailash in its north and Rakshatal lake in the west. According to the Puranas, the 120-kilometer circumference and 300 feet deep sweet water lake Mansarovar situated at the highest altitude of 17 thousand feet above sea level in the world originated when Lord Shiva pleased with the penance of Bhagirath.

Such a wonderful natural lake is not in any country at such a height. According to the Puranas, the lake formed due to the water velocity revealed by Lord Shankar later got its name ‘Mansarovar’. Being surrounded by Mansarovar Lake further enhances the religious importance of Mount Kailash. Since ancient times, this place had special significance for various religions. Various beliefs and folk tales associated with this place reflect only one truth: the unity of all religions.

It is a holy place according to the Hindu religion. Thousands of people participate in the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra every year to see it. According to our scriptures, Lord Brahma had kept the tears of joy of the Supreme Father God in his Kamandal and established “Mansarovar” on this earth at a place like “Trieshtakam” (Tibet) heaven.

On the full moon night, Kailash Mansarovar

Description of Kailash Mountain

The holiest Mount Kailash holds its special place in Hinduism. According to the Hindu religion, it is the permanent abode of Lord Shankar and the mother of the world Parvati. The Kailas range extends from Kashmir to Bhutan. Between Lha Chu and Zhong Chu is situated Mount Kailash, the northern peak named Kailash. Mount Kailash also known as ‘Ganparvat and Rajatgiri’. Perhaps this is also the Meru mentioned in ancient literature. It is believed that this mountain is self-manifested. The south side of Mount Kailash is considered sapphire, the east side crystal, the west side ruby, and the north side gold. Mount Kailash is like a stone pyramid with a height of 22,028 feet above sea level, the shape of whose peak is like Virat Shivling.

It situated in the middle of sixteen lotuses made of mountains. It always covered with snow. The importance of its circumambulation has been said. It is a pilgrimage located in the northern region of the Himalayas in the region of Tibet. Since Tibet is under China, Kailash falls in China which is the spiritual center of four religions -Tibetan religion, Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. Four rivers of Asia have originated from the four directions of Mount Kailash, Brahmaputra, Indus River, Sutlej, and Karnali. In the four directions of Kailash are the mouths of various animals from which rivers originate, in the east is the mouth of a horse, in the west is the mouth of an elephant, in the north is the mouth of a lion, in the south is the mouth of a peacock.

Mythological Stories about Kailash Manasarovar

According to Shakta Granth, the right-hand palm of Goddess Sati fell at this place, due to which this lake created. That is why it considered one of the 51 Shaktipeeths. When the ice of Mansarovar melts in summer, a kind of sound also heard. Devotees believe that it is the sound of Mridang. It i believed that once a person takes a dip in Mansarovar, he can reach ‘Rudralok’. Mount Kailash, the heaven on which Kailashpati Sadashiv sits, the netherworld below, has an outer circumference of 52 km.

Mansarovar, a lake surrounded by mountains, which described in the Puranas as ‘Kshir Sagar’. Kshir Sagar is at a distance of 40 km from Kailash and in this, Vishnu and Lakshmi re seated on the rest of the bed and are running the whole world. It believed that Maharaja Mandhata discovered Lake Mansarovar and did penance for many years by its banks, which situated at the foot of these mountains.

Significance of Shaktipeeth Kailash Manasarovar

Kailash is the best Himshivling, which is like Shiva and Mansarovar is the best Shaktipeeth, here the palm of the right hand of Sati fell. The name of the goddess of Shaktipeeth here is ‘Kumuda’ – ‘Manse Kumuda Prokta’. This place is very beautiful and resourceful. A glorious description of Kailash Shaktipeeth Mansarovar found in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain scriptures. Hindu scriptures describe Mansarovar by the names Manasar, Bindusar, Manas Sarovar, etc., and have unwavering devotion towards it. Being created by the mind of the creator Brahma, this lake Kailash, the palace of Shiva, is a place of worship for all three Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. This is the Nirvana place of Rishabhdev. There is Shaktipeeth of Mother Goddess on the banks of Mansarovar.

Mention in Puranas about Kailash Manasarovar

Dakshayani Shaktipeeth has been described in Puranas. The right palm of the mother had fallen here. Here Shakti Dakshayani and Bhairav are immortal. According to Valmiki Ramayana, it is called Mansarovar because it was created from the mind of Brahma. In Jain texts, Kailash has been called Ashtapada and Padampada of Mansarovar. Every traveler must visit this Shaktipeeth. This is the 43rd Shaktipeeth out of 52 Shaktipeeths. It named ‘Manasar’ or ‘Mansarovar’.

King Mandhata had done intense penance for a long time on the banks of this lake; hence it named ‘Mansarovar’ after the name of Mandhata. Mansar mentioned as a Mahashakti Peetha in the texts like Tantrachudamani, Dakshayani Tantra, Yogini Tantra, Devi Bhagwat, etc. Goddess Kumuda in it said residence.

In Jain religious texts, Kailash called Ashtapada and Mansarovar called ‘Padyahad’. Some Tirthankaras had bathed in this holy lake and performed penance by living on its picturesque banks. It is written in a Jain scripture that Lankapati Ravana came from Lanka one day sitting in his Pushpak Viman to visit Ashtapada and Padyahrida Mansarovar and circumambulate both pilgrimages.

Lankesh Ravana was also a worshiper of Shakti, so he wanted to take a bath in Mahashaktipith Mansarovar, but the deities prevented him from taking a bath. Seeing this, Mahabali Ravana with his ability built a big lake near Mansarovar and bathed in it. The name of that lake was ‘Ravanahrid’.

Journey Time of Kailash Manasarovar

The journey of Kailash Mansarovar starts in May and ends in July. This journey completed in two ways. The 27-day trek to Kailash completed by the Government of India via the Pithoragarh route. Second trip to Kathmandu (Nepal) by travel agents in jeep till Mansarovar in just 16 days and 54 km in Darchan. The journey completed on foot in three days.

Mount Kailash ispread over thousands of kilometers. Despite the difficult snowy journey, about 10 thousand pilgrims visit every year.

Route Distances: Delhi to Kathmandu 700, Kathmandu to Mansarovar 1100, Mansarovar to Darchan 40, Darchan to Mount Kailash 54 km. A comparable shorter route recently opened which goes via Nathula Pass, Sikkim.

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11/Feb/2023

Hinglaj Bhavani Mandir, Pakistan temple situated on the Chandrakup mountain on the banks of the Hingol river in Balochistan, Pakistan, considered very awakend. The way to go here goes through a narrow valley, which is very difficult, but devotees and devotees visit this temple throughout the year. This temple is also known as Hinglaj Bhavani Mandir ‘Nani Maa Ka Mandir’.

Going from Karachi towards Paras Gulf by boat till Makran and on foot, reach Chandrakup at 7th point and Hinglaj at 13th point. Hinglaj is 145 km from Karachi. This temple is situated on the right bank of the Hingol River in Hingol National Park, Balochistan. This is a Shaktipeeth. Sati Mata’s head had fallen at this place. According to the Puranas, Lord Rama worshiped Hingala Devi here to get rid of the sin of Brahmahatya.

Festivals in Hinglaj Bhavani Mandir, Pakistan

A fair held here during Navratras where thousands of Hindus and Muslims come. In which the maximum number is of the people of the nearby Sindhi community. It believed that this temple is more than 200 years old. This is a temple built in a small cave, in which a small rock is worshiped in the form of Hinglaj Mata.

Legend of Hinglaj Bhavani Mandir, Pakistan

According to one of these beliefs, after the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati, Goddess Sati’s father Daksha insulted Lord Shankar, then Goddess Sati committed self-immolation. After the self-immolation, 51 parts of Devi’s body fell at different places. Hinglaj also considered one of these places. It is said that this temple is situated where the head of Goddess Sati fell. That is why the mother is not seen in her full form in the temple, but only her head is visible.

Significance of Hinglaj Bhavani Mandir, Pakistan

There is no difference between Hindu and Muslim among the devotees. Here Muslims also seen bowing their heads in front of the Goddess with equal reverence. For Pakistanis, this temple is Nani’s temple. Many people call the difficult journey here Nani’s Hajj.

Thousands of devotees from all over the world come and bow their heads in this temple of Nani. This Shaktipeeth considered very auspicious and very important for Hindus all over the world. It also believed that if any devotee walking on a 10 feet long road of coals reaches the mother to visit, all his wishes will be fulfilled. Nowadays this practice may have ended, but the faith in this temple and mother has not diminished.

This temple completely dedicated to Hinglaj Devi. Muslims call it by the names of ‘Bibi Nani’ and ‘Nani’. Hinglaj Devi accompanied by another goddess known as Kurukullah. Sati’s mouth filled with Hingul (sindur), the hill on which she fell is known as Hingul Parvat, and that Peeth is called Shri Hinglaj Mata. This Shaktipeeth is considered most important because the mother’s head has fallen at this place.

Here in the cave, there is a darshan of Jagjanani Bhagwati Hinglaj. One must go on foot into the cave. Along with this, Kali Maa is also visible. Tumreka Dana of Hinglaj is famous. Saints wear its garland. In Hinglaj there is light emanating from the earth.

In Devi Bhagwat Skanda 7, Adhyay 39, and Brahmavaivarta Purana, Krishna Janma-Khand Adhyay 76 Shlok 21, the greatness of this place comes with detail. This place 47th among the 51 Shaktipeeths mentioned in Tantrachudamani. Here Shakti is ‘Kottari’ and Bhairav is ‘Bhimlochan’.

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29/Nov/2022

Parli city of Maharashtra is famous for Shri Vaijnath Temple. It is no coincidence that this temple is in Maharashtra as most of the Mahadwadash Jyotirlingas, to be precise, 5 of them are found in this Indian state. Parli Vaidyanath Temple is located within the tourist periphery of Beed city. The scenic beauty of this temple complex and the abundance of nature make it a healthy and healing destination for all visitors. However, it is one of the dreaded places of worship for the devotees belonging to the Shaivism sect of Hinduism. But that does not mean others couldn’t come. The doors of Parli Vaidyanath Temple are always open for all.

History of Parli Vaidyanath Temple

Lord Shiva Shankar resides here with Parvati. They two stays together in Parli, there is no such belief anywhere else. That is why this place called Anokhi Kashi. Lord Vishnu had made the deities get the nectar of victory here. That is why this pilgrimage place also called ‘Vaijayanti’.

Strong and paved stairs built in 1108 to go to the temple. The temple was renovated by Ahilya Devi Holkar in 1706. Shrimant Peshwa had given a large land in the form of Jagir for the arrangement of this Devasthan. Veer Shivaji had visited this temple and gave it his full patronage. The grand hall of the temple built by Ramrao Nana Desh Pandey.

The Legend of Parli Vaidyanath Temple

Fourteen gems came out of the nectar churning done by the gods and demons, among them were Dhanvantari and Amrit Ratna. When the demons ran to get the nectar, Shri Vishnu hid Dhanvantari along with the nectar in the linga idol of Lord Shankar. As soon as the demons wanted to touch the Linga idol, flames came out from the Linga idol. The demons ran away, but when the devotees of Shiva touched the Linga idol, streams of nectar came out of it. Even today there is a method of visiting this Jyotirlinga by touching it. Due to the presence of Dhanvantari and Amrit in Linga Murti, it also called Amrisheshwar and Dhanvantari.

There is a grand temple made of stones at a high place near Parli village. Due to the direction outside the temple, the rays of the sun fall directly on the linga idol of Vaidyanath at sunrise on special days in the months of Chait and Ashwin in the temple. There are 42 strong and wide stairs to reach the temple.

The Linga idol of Vaidyanath ji made of Shaligram rock. It is very soft, luxurious, and luscious. From 1885, lamps keep burning around the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

The grand auditorium of the temple built by the late Ramrao Nanadesh Pandey with the help of artisans and devotees of the village. Mrs. Peshwa had provided a large land in the form of Jagir for the arrangement of this Devasthan. There are 11 other temples of Lord Shiva on the premises of Vaidyanath itself. The temple arrangements done by a committee. As Parli is a place of devotion to Shiva, similarly Harihar is also a place of meeting.

Festivals at Parli Vaidyanath Temple

Along with Lord Shankar, the festival of Lord Krishna also celebrated with great pomp in this joint holy land. This is also the holy land of Satyawan Savitri Katha. The banyan tree of Savitri Katha is still standing here on the hill of Narayan and there is also a Vateshwar temple nearby.

The beloved Chilia child of King Shripal and Queen Changuna resurrected by the grace of Shiva, that place is Parli Vaidyanath. There are many temples, ashrams, samadhis, pilgrimages, and holy places in Parli. Vaidyanath has to be visited only after seeing Ganesh Ji without a trunk, who is sitting like a wrestler’s seat.

The Architecture of Parli Vaidyanath Temple

Parli Vaidyanath Temple is 80 feet high from the ground level and has three gates in all three directions. There are strong banks around the temple. There are three entrances on the three sides of the temple. Due to the sanctum sanctorum and assembly hall being on the same level in the temple, Shivling can be seen from the assembly hall only.

Every Monday Shri Baijnath is duly worshipped. Shivji’s daily anointing is done only with the water of Harihar Tirtha. Bholenath’s palanquin comes out on the festival of Dussehra and Mahashivratri. Apart from this, the festivals of Varsha Pratipada, Shravan month, Vijayadashami, Vainkuth Chaturdashi, and Tripurari Purnima are also celebrated with great pomp. In the month of Shravan, by bringing water from the Godavari river from far away, Rudrabhishek of Mahadev is offered to Billa Dal.

There is a huge crowd of devotees here in the month of Shravan. On the day of Kartik Shuddha Chaturdashi i.e., Vaikuntha Chaturdashi, Lord Vishnu received the Sudarshan Chakra of Lord Shiva Shankar. On this day Mahapuja takes place in Shri Baijnath temple. Tripurasura was killed by Bholenath on the day of Kartik Purnima i.e., Tripurari Purnima, that is why the ritual of daily worship is organized here for a month i.e., from Kojagiri Purnima to Tripurari Purnima.

How To Reach Parli Vaidyanath Temple

By Air:

The nearest airport is at Nanded, which is located at a distance of 105 km from Parli Vaidyanath Temple.

By train:

The nearest station is Parli and Parli is 2 km from Parli Vaidyanath Temple. There are direct trains from Secunderabad, Kakinada, Manmad, Visakhapatnam, and Bangalore.

By road:

There are many buses available from Aurangabad, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and nearby cities.

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27/Nov/2022

Chaurasi Mandir Bharmour is located in the center of Bharmour city of Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh and has immense religious importance due to the temples built around 1400 years ago. Life of the people in Bharmour is centered around the temple complex – Chaurasi Mandir so named because of the 84 temples built in its precincts. Chaurasi is the Hindi word for the number eighty-four.

The quaint little town of Bharmour is highly respected as this place’s holy land houses eighty-four temples. It is a complex housing several temples with Lakshmi Devi, Ganesha, Manimahesh, and Narasimha.

Mythological Story of Chaurasi Mandir Bharmour

It is believed that the land was first seen by Goddess Bharmani Devi. One day 84 Siddhas, who had come from Kurukshetra, were passing through Bharmour on their way to Manimahesh with Lord Shiva. He asked Bharmani Devi if he could take shelter for the night at Bharmour.

Bharmani Devi gave her permission but when she woke up the next day, she saw smoke and fire. She saw that 84 Siddhas had settled on his land. Enraged by this trespass, she ordered Shiva and the Siddhas to move out of the place as he believed that now people would pray to Lord Shiva and her importance would decline.

Shiva pleaded with all his humility and to console Bharmani Devi he said: “Whoever comes to Manimahesh has to first take a dip in the pool of Bharmani Devi only then the journey will be complete”. For this Bharmani Devi went up to the ridge of the Bhudhal valley and from there at any point, one cannot see the Chaurasi temple. Lord Shiva left but the 84 Siddhas transformed themselves into 84 Shivalingas as they fell in love with the calmness of Bharmour and decided to meditate here.

Equally interesting is the legend about how she became a goddess. It said that the Brahmani lived in a garden on a high peak and her son was very fond of Chitkor (a kind of bird). Chitkor killed by a farmer and his son could not bear the loss and die. Heartbroken, she buried herself alive and the spirits of the three of them began to haunt the local people.

Another story about the temple is that of King Sahil Varman, who ruled during the tenth century. 84 sages came to his kingdom and being pleased with his welcome and hospitality, blessed him with ten sons and one daughter. The city of Chamba said to have been named after his daughter. The city of Chamba said to have been named after his daughter Champavati. The temple also holds significance for being the residence of the Pandavas during their 14 years of exile.

About the Temples in Chaurasi Mandir Complex

Chaurasi Temple, the temple of Lakhna Devi is the oldest temple in Bharmour. It retains many of the old architectural features of the wooden temples and has a richly carved entrance hall. It said to have been built by King Maru Varman (680 AD). Durga depicted here as the four-armed Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura.

Manimahesh (Shiva) Temple:

The Manimahesh Temple which is located in the center of the Chaurasi Temple is the main temple housing a huge Shiva Linga. Shiva Linga nothing but a symbol of the distinctive sign of Lord Shiva and worshiped as a symbol.

Narasimha (Narasimha) Temple:

Narasimha also called Narasimha, a name translated from Sanskrit as “man-lion”. An avatar of Vishnu Narasimha in which the god depicted in the pantheon as half man and half lion. The bronze statue of this deity, which exquisitely cast, is awe-inspiring.

Lord Nandi Bull Temple:

The life-size metal bull Nandi, locally known as Nandigan with broken ears and tail, can be seen standing in a modern shed in front of the Manimahesh temple. Nandi is the chief servant of Ganesha and Shiva, who had the shape of a bull and the qualities of a great devotee. Typically, in front of Shiva temples, there is a provision in the Shilpa texts for a couchant bull to roam outside and gaze at its lord Shiva. But here we have a life-size Nandi bull standing on all four legs (feet). The ‘Vishnudharmotra Purana’, however, describes such a bull, Nandi, who represents the firmness and stability of dharma.

Dharmeshwar Mahadev (Dharmaraja) Temple:

Dharmaraja, known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev, given a seat by Maru Varman on the northern corner of Chaurasi. It is a belief of the local people that every departed soul stands here to seek final permission from Dharmaraja to proceed and travel through this temple to the abode of Shiva after death. It believed to be the court of Dharmaraja and locally called ‘Dhai-Podi’, which means two and a half steps.

Ganesha or Ganapati Temple:

Lord Ganesha Temple situated near the entrance of the Chaurasi Temple of Bharmour. The temple built by the rulers of the Varman dynasty, as stated in an inscription made in the temple, by Meru Varman around the 7th century AD. The temple of Ganesha enshrines a bronze image of Ganesha. This magnificent image is life size with both feet missing.

How To Reach Chaurasi Mandir Bharmour

The best time to visit the Chaurasi Temple is from May to November as it is bitterly cold and snow falls during winter. Devotees visit it during their journey to Manimahesh Kailash and the pilgrimage takes place during this period. There is no dearth of places to stay in Bharmour and it also relatively easy to reach the temple, being well connected to Chamba which is 65 km away with several special buses plying on this route. When so many gods reside together, it becomes even more compelling to have a darshan and remove all sins.

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21/Nov/2022

Baijnath, the tehsil headquarters of the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is famous for the Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra built in the 13th century. Baijnath means “Vaidya + Nath” which means lord of medicine or medicines. Lord Shiva, to whom this temple is dedicated, also known as Vaidya + Nath.

This temple is situated right next to the Pathankot-Mandi National Highway in Baijnath. The old name of Baijnath was ‘Keergram’ but with the passage of time this temple became famous and the name of the village became Baijnath. The Binwa river, which later joins the Beas River, flows at the north-west end of the temple.

The architecture of Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra

The sanctum sanctorum of the temple entered through an antechamber, in front of which a large square mandap built and large balconies made on both the north and south sides. In the front part of the mandap, there a small verandah supported by four pillars, in front of which there a statue of the Nandi bull under a small stone temple. The whole temple surrounded by a high wall and there are entrances on the south and north.

Two long inscriptions on the verandah of the temple indicate that the temple of Shiva existed at the spot even before the construction of the present one.

The present temple a beautiful example of early medieval North Indian temple architecture known as the Nagara style of temples. The swayambhu form of the Shivalinga enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, which has five projections on each side and a tall curved shikhara.

The outer walls of the temple have several curved images of gods and goddesses. Many paintings are also fixed or engraved on the walls.

The outer doors in the porch as well as the inner doors leading to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple are inlaid with a large number of paintings of great beauty and symbolic importance. Some of them are very rare and are found elsewhere.

Pilgrimage at Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra

Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra visited by a large number of tourists and pilgrims throughout the year from all over India and abroad. Special prayers offered in the morning and evening every day except for special occasions and during the festive season.

On the outer walls of the temple, there are idols of many gods and goddesses made to display the idols and other ornaments. Many pictures carved on the walls. The outer gate of the verandah and the inner gate leading to the sanctum sanctorum filled with innumerable paintings depicting the ultimate beauty and importance. It is rare to find some of these pictures anywhere else.

This temple is a beautiful and excellent example of the Nagada style of pre-medieval north Indian temple architecture.

Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra- Center of Religious Faith

Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra holds an important place for the religious faith of people coming from far and wide. The temple attracts a large number of tourists and pilgrims from all over India and abroad throughout the year.

Prayers offered every day in the morning and evening. Apart from this, special worship done on special occasions and festivals. Festivals like Makar Sankranti, Maha Shivratri, Vaishakh Sankranti, Shravan Somwar, etc. celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur.

Every Monday falling in the month of Shravan considered to be of special importance for worshiping in the temple. Every Monday of the month of Shravan celebrated as a fair. A five-day state-level function organized every year on Maha Shivratri.

The Dussehra festival, which traditionally celebrated to burn an effigy of Ravana, celebrated in Baijnath as a mark of respect for the penance and devotion done by Ravana to Lord Shiva.

The special importance of bathing in Kheer Ganga Ghat

Bathing in the Kheer Ganga Ghat built on Vinva Khad flowing along the temple has special importance and earns virtue by getting rid of sins.

Ravana Gave Sacrifices of Ten Heads Here

There are many ideas regarding the establishment of Shivling in Baijnath Shiva temple. According to legend, during the Ram-Ravana war, Ravana had done severe penance on Mount Kailash to please Shiva and asked Lord Shiva for a boon to go to Lanka so that victory could be achieved in the war.

Lord Shiva pleased and promised to walk with Ravana to Lanka in the form of a Pindi and at the same time put a condition that he should take this Pindi directly to Lanka without keeping it in the ground.

As soon as Ravana left for Lanka with this divine Pindi of Shiva, Ravana felt a slight doubt at a place called Keergram (Baijnath) and he handed over the Pindi to a person standing there for a while. Retiring from the slightest doubt, Ravana saw that the person in whose hand he had given that Pindi had disappeared and the Pindi had been established in the ground.

Ravana tried a lot to lift the established Pindi but could not get success, then he did severe penance at this place and sacrificed his ten heads in the Havan Kund. Pleased with the penance, Rudra Mahadev reinstated all the heads of Ravana.

Pandavas Build The Temple Partially

Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra built during the unknown abode of Pandavas in Dwapar Yuga. According to the local people, the remaining construction work of this temple completed by two merchants named Ahuk and Manuk in 1204 AD and since then till now this place is famous in northern India as Shivdham.

Significance of Sacred Kunda

It said that the water of Brahma Kund used for drinking. Mahakal anointed with the water of Shiv Kund and this water can also be used for bathing. The water of Sati Kund is not said to be used. It said that 3 queens were sati here at some point.

Recent History of Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra

In the year 1905, there was a severe earthquake in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, which caused huge destruction. A large part of this temple had collapsed in that earthquake. That part has been redone. The special thing is that the Durga temple here was established by the king of Mandi about four and a half hundred years ago. But the king’s only son had passed away, so he refused to install the idol.

It said that after this whoever wanted to install the idol, an accident would happen to him or his family members. In a situation, after many years, in the year 1982, Swami Ramanand installed the Durga idol here. By the way, there is also a Shani temple at this place.

How To Reach Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra

The nearest airport to Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra is the Gaggal Airport, located at a distance of 37 km. Flight can also be taken from Shimla airport, which is located in Jubbarhatti at a distance of 225 km from the temple. A private cab or taxi to travel to Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra can be hired.

Alternatively, one can hire a state transport bus from Shimla to Mandi and then can hire a taxi to reach Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra as there is no direct flight or train between Baijnath and Shimla. One can also hire a taxi or state-run bus from Shimla to Dharamshala, after which one can hire a private taxi to Baijnath Shiv Temple, Kangra, which is located at a distance of 54 km from Dharamshala.

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19/Nov/2022

Dharmaraj or Yamraj Temple also known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple, Himachal in the 84-temple complex, Bharmour and is believed to be the only temple of Lord Dharmaraj or Lord Yamraj in the world.

It is such a temple that people have to come there when their life expectancy is over. Be it a believer or an atheist, everyone has to come to this temple. Such is the belief in this temple region of Himachal. There is probably no other temple like this in the world.

Location of Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple, Himachal

Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple, Himachal is located at Varmore in the Chamba district, just 500 km away from India’s capital Delhi. The temple located in a high place looks like a habitable house. But many people do not dare to enter there, and their chest trembles. So many times, even while entering the temple, the visitors come back out of fear. This is because Dharmaraj resides in this temple.

Mythological Story of Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple, Himachal

One who has finished his pastimes in this world has to go to Dharmaraj or Yamaraj. This is the idea of the theist. There is an empty room within this temple of Dharmaraja. It is called Chitragupta’s house. Chitragupta is Yamaraj’s secretary. It is this Chitragupta who decides the day of death of the living being. It is said that when a living being dies, Yamaraj’s emissaries first bring the soul of the deceased to this temple. Here they are judged according to Karma then they are sent elsewhere.

The temple of Yamraj, known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev, was built by Maru Varman on the northern corner of Chaurasi. Now it is enshrined in a temple made of stone and wood, the roof of which is covered with slate. It is believed to be the court of Dharmaraja and is locally called ‘Dhai-Podi’, which means two and a half steps. These stairs may now be located under the Dharmaraja temple in the 84-temple complex at Bharmour.

This temple called ‘Yamra’ because Yamaraja judges living beings here. Here Yamaraja received the souls brought by his attendants. It said that there are four darshan gates in this temple. Ingots made of gold, silver, copper, and iron. Souls sent through these doors to go to heaven, death, hell, the underworld, etc. according to Yamaraja’s judgment. Garuda Purana also mentions four such doors.

The Temple Complex of Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple, Himachal

Eighty-four ancient temples stand high in the midst of natural beauty. Melbandhan of Shaiva, Shakta, and Vaishnava. The temples made of a combination of wood and stone dating back to the 10th century. Each temple is an exquisite work of art. Accommodation in Varmore is good. The Archeology Department is responsible for the maintenance of these temples. This is the only temple of Yamaraj in the world.

There are eighty-four small and big temples in this temple complex. Most of the temples made of stone. Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple is more attractive. Darkness descended to see other temples like Narasimhadev Temple, Lakshmanadevi Temple, Brahma-Vishnu-Maheswara, Ganesha Temple, etc. One will be surprised to notice that even in the evening, the evening light does not give here.

How To Reach Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple, Himachal

To reach the 84th temple complex in Varmaur, the ideal route would be Delhi-Pathankot-Chamba-Varamour. The road to Bharmaur is good, but the road is a bit dangerous. Therefore, it is mandatory to be proficient in driving or have an experienced driver to drive your vehicle.

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There are many temples in India where incredible things happen. Although the modern mind does not want to accept this. But these temples were not built anew. Very old, hundreds of years old. A girl’s wedding ornaments can be found by dipping her hand in the water of a temple’s tank, a girl’s wedding cooking utensils are found in a pushkarni (Pond), somewhere else she has dreamed of idol and wants to be established her in a temple, there are many such legends around many temples in India. One such temple is the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud.

Location of the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud

Nanjangud is located on the banks of the Kapila River in Mysore, the ancient capital of Karnataka. The Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud here is very famous. There is an interesting phenomenon in this temple that is simply unbelievable.

Surprises at the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud

The roof opens up to the sky at a certain point inside this temple. At that time, a bel tree spreading its branches over the sanctum can be seen through that open space. Surprisingly, the tree’s roots are not visible anywhere in the soil. It is very surprising how the bell tree survives without getting soil or water.

Also, another amazing thing is that there are many pillars in this temple, as in many temples. But the specialty here is that though there are many pillars in the temple, only one of them shows the face of Mata Gauri from time to time. According to those who visit the temple regularly, Goddess Gauri’s face is constantly changing. Not only that, but sometimes it looks very clear and transparent.

History of the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud

It believed that sage Gautama stayed here for some days. At that time, he installed a linga in the image of Shiva. Nanjangur also known as the Kashi of the South or the Varanasi of the South because of its many temples. The temple probably built in the 9th century when the Ganga rulers occupied the region. At that time, the temple’s presiding deity called Hakim Nanjuda; Tipu Sultan also prayed to the deity by this name.

It is known that Tipu Sultan had a very favorite elephant. That elephant once fell ill and died. But the Sultan’s Kabiraj and Maulawis did not make any mistake in their best efforts. But nothing worked in the treatment. Then Tippu Sultan earnestly prayed to Nanjundeshwar to restore the life of the elephant.

After that, his beloved elephant slowly recovered. The same story is found (as in the Gazetteer of Mysore). Another incident is also recorded in the history of the temple. Hyder Ali Sahib’s beloved elephant once lost its sight but by the grace of the Lord regained its sight after taking a vow in the court of the local Nanjundeshwar deity. The Sultan pleased and placed a gold necklace around Nanjundeshwar’s neck.

Since then, Nanjundeshwar also called Baidyanath. Even today he is regarded as a healing deity by his devotees who believe in him. Even today, some follow the religious practice of taking a bath in the Kapila river to cure disease.

A very old bel tree can be seen within the temple premises, it is said that a visit to this sacred tree brings the blessings of the deity. Many sick people consume the leaves of this tree regularly for recovery. So along with Devdarshan many devotees and curious people flock to see the bel tree. No one can guess how old this bell tree is. Beel leaves are already very sacred for Shiva worship. Considered to be the abode of Shivathakur.

The confluence of the Kapila and Kaundiniya rivers is located near Nanjangud. This place is known as Parashuram Kshetra. It is said that Maharishi Parasurama was freed from the sin of beheading his mother by visiting this place.

Mythological Story of the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud

It said that Parashurama came to this place and found great peace of mind which he never found anywhere else. So, he decided that he would do penance at the place where the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud is located. At that time, only the original Keshav temple existed (which is now next to the main temple). He intends to clean the place with his axe before sitting on penance.

At that time Lord Shiva was meditating under the ground of that place. When Parasurama was cleaning the place with an axe, he unknowingly hit the head of Lord Shiva who was doing penance underground. Immediately, blood started flowing from the injured area of Lord Shiva.

Parasurama was very afraid of committing another sin again. Then Lord Shiva consoled him and said, you are not responsible for this accident in any way. If you build a temple adjacent to the original Keshav temple, then all your worries and anxiety will be removed from your mind. Lord Shiva also asked Parashuram to do penance at Nanjangur. When Parashuram built the temple as per the instructions of Lord Shiva, Shiva was very happy and blessed him saying, those who come to Nanjangur and visit Nanjuleshwara must visit the temple built by Parashuram then all the wishes of the devotees will be fulfilled. Saying this he disappeared from there.

Festivals at the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud

A grand Rath Yatra is held here every two years. At that time thousands of people throng to pull this famous chariot. The idols of Lord Srikanteshwar, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganapati, Lord Subramanya, and Lord Chandiveshwar are kept in five separate chariots. After the worship of the idols, the chariot procession with the deities begins. Continue along the old city streets, thousands of Devotees pay their respects by pulling chariots.

The Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud Timings

Temple remains open from Morning 6 AM to Evening 8:30 PM with a break from 1.00 to 4.00 PM

How to Reach the Srikanteshwara Temple, Nanjangud

Bangalore to Mysore can be reached by bus, car, or train. This temple is near the famous Chamunda temple.

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Virupaksha Temple is located at Hampi, 350 km from Bangalore in the state of Karnataka in South India. Hampi, the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The temple is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Most people believe that this temple was built by the great Sri Krishnadevaraya. But the temple was built by Lakkan Dandesh, the chieftain of Deva Raya II of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Virupaksha Temple is the main center of pilgrimage in Hampi and has been considered the holiest sanctuary for centuries. It remains intact among the surrounding ruins and is still used in worship. Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the consort of the local goddess Pampa, who is associated with the Tungabhadra River.

History of Virupaksha Temple

The temple has an uninterrupted history dating back to about the 7th century. The Virupaksha-Pampa sanctuary existed long before the capital of Vijayanagara was located here. The inscriptions mentioning Shiva date back to the 9th and 10th centuries. What started as a small temple developed into a large complex under the Vijayanagara rulers.

Evidence indicates that some additions made to the temple towards the end of the Chalukya and Hoysala periods, although most of the temple buildings attributed to the Vijayanagara period. The huge temple building built by Lakkana Dandesh, a chieftain under Deva Raya II, the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. When the rulers defeated by Muslim invaders in the 16th century, most of the wonderful ornamental structures and works destroyed. Major renovations and additions made to the structure in the early 19th century.

Architecture of Virupaksha Temple

The Virupaksha temple consists of an open pillared hall and pillared hall, three east chambers, and a sanctum. The entrance to the east has nine levels and the largest of all the entrances is 50 meters high. The stone base has two levels and the superstructure made of bricks.

From the eastern entrance, one can enter the outer court consisting of several small temples. The temple constructed in such a way that the river Tungabhadra flows along its terrace, descends into the kitchen of the temple, and passes through the outer courtyard. The central pillared hall, the most ornate structure and believed to added by the famous Vijayanagara emperor Krishnadevaraya. The hall built by the emperor in 1510 AD. The stone plaque inscriptions provide a detailed account of the emperor’s contribution to the Virupaksha temple.

The temple decorated with beautiful artifacts during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings. The walls of the temples engraved with murals, sculptures, and cultural programs. Under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya, the road leading to the temple was beautified by restoring beautiful sculptures. During the 15th and 16th centuries, many foreign travelers visited this place and declared the greatness and marvelous view of the temple and the city of Hampi. Even though after Sri Krishnadevaraya, the Muslim invaders completely destroyed the beautiful structures and magnificent sculptures of Hampi city and Virupaksha temple.

However, the glory of Virupaksha Temple did not diminish, devotees continued their pilgrimage to the temple. Major restoration work of the temple done in the early 19th century. The destroyed parts restored, the roofs of the temple painted, and north and east gopurams constructed to bring back the glory of the Virupaksha temple.

How to reach Virupaksha Temple

This is the main temple inside Hampi and any auto driver will easily take you to the temple. If you’re on the hippie side, use the boat to cross the river to reach just behind the temple. We crossed the river from the hippie side and reached the Virupaksha temple. There is no bridge and one has to take a detour of 45 km to cross the river by road. So, it is better to take a boat and cross the river in 5 minutes.

Government buses ply from the temple to the railway station with good frequency. We did not take these buses but saw them leaving the bus stand near the temple all the time.

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