Uttarakhand Temples

Yogadhyan Badri – Sapta Badri

August 29, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Sapta Badri, Vishnu Temples

Yogadhyan Badri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is situated at Pandukeshwar village near Govind Ghat in the district of Chamoli, Uttarakhand at an altitude of 1920 m. It is the fifth temple complex among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It’s part of the famous ‘Sapta Badri‘ pilgrimage circuit. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

Know more about – Sapta Badri

Yogadhyan Badri – Facts

Deity	Lord Vishnu
Location	Pandukeshwar, Near Govind Ghat, Badrinath, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit	May to June and September to October
Darshan Timings	5 AM to 12 PM 2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees	Free
Dress Code	Traditional Wear
Festivals	Krishna Janmashtmi, Makar Sankranti

In ancient times, the path to the temple went through the Badri van (Forest of berries). Hence, the suffix ‘Badri‘ is added to the seven holy shrines of Lord Vishnu.

What are the timings of Yogadhyan Badri?

Here are the timings of the temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning	5 AM	12 PM
Evening	2 PM	9 PM

What is the significance of Yogadhyan Badri?

The significance of Yogadhyan Badri is that it has a bronze image of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that Pandu installed this image, which is depicted to be meditating (Dhyan). Hence, the name of the shrine comes from the posture of the image, and it is called ‘Yoga-Dhyan‘ Badri.

Yogadhyan Badri Significance — The temple has a Bronze image of Lord Vishnu.

Moreover, when the main temple of Badrinath closes down during winters because of extreme weather conditions, Yogadhyan Badri is considered to be the winter abode of the Utsava-murti (festive image) of Badrinath.

Hence, it is mandatory for a pilgrim to offer prayers at this place in order to complete his/her pilgrimage. Also, the chief priests of the temples are ‘Bhatts‘ from southern India

What is the history of Yogadhyan Badri?

The History of Yogadhyan states that:

According to the religious texts, the king Pandu worshipped here to get rid of him from the sin of killing of two mating deer; the two deer were ascetics in their previous lives.

Yogadhyan Badri History — The Pandavas were born at Yogadhyan Badri.

King Pandu died and attained salvation here. The Pandavas were also born here, so this place is very important in terms of the religious point of view. The king Pandu installed here an image of Vishnu in meditating posture thus the image got its name – Yogdhyan Badri. This idol is big and life-size carved out of Shaligram stone.
Pandavas had fought the war against Kauravas known as Mahabharat and after defeating the Kauravas, all Pandavas brothers came to this place for penance as they had killed their kith and kin in the war. From this place, the Pandavas had gone further to Swargarohini for paying their penance and finally reaching to heaven.

Idols of Lord Vishnu, Goddess Laxmi, and Madri are installed above a shivling inside the temple.

As per a copper plate inscription under the rule by early Katyuri Rajas this place has been identified as Panchal Desh.
Another historical location near this place is Suryakund, a hot water spring, where Kunti had given birth to her son Karna fathered by Sun God “Surya”. Kunti had got married to king Pandu at Pandukeshwar.
It is said that King Arjun also meditated here which attracted God Indra. God Indra sent Pari (angel) to distract Arjun from meditation but Arjun did not get distracted and finally, Indra God blessed Arjun. It is believed that the idol of Vishnu which is present at the temple was given by Indra God to Arjun as a gift.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the hotel rooms.

What are the festivals celebrated at Yogadhyan Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Yogadhyan Badri are:

Krishna Janmashtmi: It is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It occurs according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar and is a very important festival for the followers of Lord Vishnu.
Makar Sankranti: This festival occurs each year in January and is to appease the Sun God. It is the first day when Sun enters Capricorn and marks the lengthening of daytime in the forthcoming days. This day also includes colorful decorations, preparation of sweets with sesame seeds and children asking for treats and pocket money.

Adi Badri Festivals — Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Yogadhyan Badri?

Here’s how to reach Yogadhyan Badri:

Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (210 km)
Train: Rishikesh and Haridwar are the nearest railway stations.
Road: Buses are available to Rishikesh from ISBT Kashmere Gate. One can avail taxis or state transport buses to Joshimath which is 18 km away from Yogadhyan Badri.

Where to stay near Yogadhyan Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Yogadhyan Badri while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Hotel Sudarshan Palace has facilities such as 24-hour front desk, garden area and parking facility within its premises. Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom are available.
Hotel Kuber Annex: The facilities offered here are front desk, room service, power backup, STD PCO facility, doctor on call. Massage service is also available here so that guests can relax after trekking. A helicopter booking facility is also available at the hotel.
Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. With a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures the fulfillment of all needs of guests. Moreover, in case of medical emergencies, one can avail the doctor on call facility at the hotel.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the hotel rooms.

What are the other Sapta Badri destinations?

The other Sapta Badri destinations are:

Adi Badri: It is the second among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. When Badrinath temple remains closed due to extremities in weather, devotees worship Lord Vishnu in Adi Badri temple. Moreover, the sanctum of the temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which is 1 meter high and has been carved out of black stone.
Vriddha Badri: It is the third among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. Devotees also believed that Adi Shankaracharya worshipped Badrinath here before enshrining Him in the main Badrinath temple. Vriddha Badri is temple is open for devotees and pilgrims throughout the year.
Bhavishya Badri: It is the fourth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. According to beliefs, Lord Badri will take abode in Bhavishya Badri at the end of Kaliyuga. Even the name of the place literally translates to ‘Future Badri’, implying that it will be the future residence of Lord Badri.
Dhyan Badri: It is the sixth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It has an image of Lord Vishnu which Urvarishi established. This image of Vishnu is four-armed, made of black stone and in a meditative posture. Also, Brahmins from Southern India serve as head priests in the temple.
Ardha Badri: It is the seventh among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. In comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means ‘the little Badri’.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Devprayag

August 9, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 4 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Other Temples, Panch Prayag

Devprayag is the last confluence of river Alaknanda (Panch Prayag) in the descending order. The place is rooted in the confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi. Moreover, the holy confluence occurs in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. From this Prayag, Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow as Ganga river.

The place draws its name from sage Dev Sharma from Satyug. Beliefs suggest that sage Dev Sharma worshipped Lord Vishnu at this place. Hence, being impressed by him, Lord Vishnu gave him the boon that his place of worship will be known by his name in the coming times.

Bhagirathi originates from Gaumukh and Alaknanda from Satopanth and the two merge right at this place. Devprayag is a famous pilgrimage destination on the Char Dham Yatra route.

Chronicles of Devprayag

Hindu mythology highlights Devprayag as the place where Lord Ram meditated for repentance after killing Ravana. Since Brahmin murder was a considerable sin during the time. Hence after killing Ravana, Lord Ram came here to wash his sins away on the advice of the sages of his court.

Moreover, traditional tales talk about another river that belongs to this confluence named Saraswati. It is predicted to be originating from Mana Village in Badrinath. However, in Devprayag, the river descends from the feet of Lord Rama in Raghunath Temple. Also, there is evidence of footprints of Lord Rama at “Ram Kunda“.

In accordance with one of the tales, King Bhagirath pursued Goddess Ganga to flow from this prayag which is now the starting point of the river.

Essence of the Confluence

Devprayag is highlighted in History as the land of late Acharya, Pt. Chakradhar Joshi. Acharya set up Nakshatra Veda Shala on the mountain Dashrathanchal on top of Devprayag in 1946. This observatory is packed with the latest equipments.

Essence of Devprayag — He was the one who set up Nakshatra Ved Shala near Devprayag

Other than that ancient equipment like Surya Ghati, Dhruv Ghati is also present here. This observatory is the living pride of progress of Indians in Astronomy.

Devprayag is significantly known for being surrounded by 3 heavenly peaks, named Giddhanchal Parvat, Dashrathanchal Parvat, and Narsinghancal Parvat.

Moreover, devotees worship Lord Shiva here in the form of Tondeshwar Mahadev and Dhaneshwar Mahadev. The devotees also flock here to visit Mata Bhuvneshwari temple in village Pundal. Other popular temples nearby are Danda Nagaraja (Lord of Snakes) temple and Chandrabadni temple

A very interesting fact about the two rivers is that Bhagirathi is considered the mother-in-law of Alaknanda in the Garhwal region.

Ways to Reach Devprayag

Here’s how to reach Devprayag:

Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport. It is at a distance of 91 km from Devprayag.
Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. It is at a distance of 72 km from Devprayag. The
Road: Buses to Devprayag and Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. However, The last Prayag is on NH58.

Stays nearby Devprayag

Stays near Devprayag that one can undertake during Char Dham Yatra are:

The Ramkund Resort: The hotel is absolute divinity for the guests. Apart from the availability of all luxuries, it provides beautiful interiors and exteriors to them. Also, the staff is very cordial.
Hotel Chakasha Govindam: The hotel offers a comfortable and hygienic stay to its guests. Moreover, there is a 24/7 help desk only a call away. Nonetheless, the stay here is budget-friendly.
Moteldev: It offers all the modern facilities to its guests. Additionally, the guests can also avail recreational activities like trekking, yoga and meditation. The guests can also avail a village safari here.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

Vishnuprayag: Vishnuprayag is present 1372 metres above sea level and is the first Prayag considering the route of river Alaknanda. It is at a distance of 189.1 km from Devprayag.
Nandaprayag: It is the second confluence after Vishnuprayag. The place observes the Sangam of Alaknanda with Nandakini here. It is at a distance of 119 km from final Prayag.
Karnaprayag: It is present at the confluence of river Alaknanda with river Pindar, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is the third confluence in line after Nandaprayag. It is 98.9 km away from Devprayag.
Rudraprayag: Located at the confluence of river Alaknanda and Mandakini, in Uttarakhand. It has an average elevation of 895 metres and is fourth among the Prayag. It is 67.3 km away from Devprayag.

The Panch Prayag is a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Devprayag

Can devotees visit Devprayag in monsoons?

Devotees must refrain from going here during monsoons as there are risks of landslides.

What is Devprayag famous for?

It is famously known as the origin of river Ganga.

Which rivers merge at this Prayag?

It is the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi.

Read interesting facts about Panch Prayag in Panch Prayag- Five sacred confluences in Uttarakhand.

Tungnath Temple

May 4, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 2 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Panch Kedar, Shiva Temples

Tungnath Temple is one of the Panch Kedar temples of Lord Shiva, present in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It comes second, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples. Also, it is the highest Shiva temple in the world. Moreover, Tunganath mountains form Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys.

Tungnath temple is also a huge tourist attraction because it’s also a trekking destination along with being a pilgrimage site. Of all the Panch Kedar trek routes, the route to Tungnath is the shortest: only 4 km from Chopta that can be covered in approximately 3–4 hours. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra PAckage in Uttarakhand.

What is the history of Tungnath Temple?

According to history, Tungnath Temple is 1000 years old. Devotees believe that Adi Shankaracharya discovered the temple. As per alegend, Pandavas slew their kin Kauravas during the Mahabharata. Hence, Rishi Vyas advised them to go to Lord Shiva, because only he could absolve them of their sins.

However, Shiva kept hiding from them and took the form of a bull and went into hiding in an underground safe haven at Guptakashi. Later, Lord Shiva’s body parts as a bull rematerialised at five locations. The Pandavas then built Shiva temples in these five places, popular as ‘Panch Kedar’ (Find out more about the Char Dham Yatra). Tungnath is the place where the bahu (hands) appeared.

What is the significance of Tungnath Temple?

The significance of Tungnath Temple is that it has a local Brahmin priest, unlike the other Panch Kedar temples which have priests from southern India. Also, Maithani Brahmins officiate as priests at this temple. Devotees believe that Adi Shankaracharya set this tradition. Moreover, the temple remains closed during winters.

Then, the symbolic image of the diety is shifted to Mukkumath. Tungnath is at the top of the ridge which divides the waters of rivers Mandakini and Alaknanda. Moreover, the temple lies about 2 km below the Chandrashila Peak. Most of the pilgrims arrive at the temple during summers because it becomes inaccessible during winters because of extreme weather conditions.

What are the timings of Tungnath Temple?

Here are the timings of Tungnath Temple:

Timings	From
Open	6 AM
Close	7 PM
Morning Aarti	6 AM
Evening Aarti	6:30 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at Tungnath Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Tungnath Temple are:

Mahashivratri: This festival is in the honour of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that he is the Adi guru who is the source of the Yogi tradition. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting, doing Yoga as well as meditating.
Dussehra: This is an important Hindu festival which is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Dussehra is the day when Lord Ram killed Ravana and established peace and prosperity. As a ritual, devotees burn an effigy of Ravana.

How to reach Tungnath Temple?

Here’s how to reach Tungnath Temple:

Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport, at a distance of about 260 km.
Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar, which is about 225 km away from Chopta.
Road: State-owned buses and private buses run regularly to and fro from the neighbouring cities and states to Chopta.

Where to stay near Tungnath Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Tungnath Temple while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

Chopta Hotel/Guest House: This hut is near the temple and one can stay at night after the trek instead of going back to Chopta, specially if you want to enjoy 360 degree Himalayan view from Chandrashila peak in the morning. Tents can also be arranged on additional costs on prior notificatin depending upon weather conditions.
Chopta- 3 bedroom stay and cafe: It is present right the start of famous Tungnath-Chandrashilla Trek point. Moreover, Indian and Chinese food is available on request. It also has a beautiful camping ground and the hotel can arrange bonfire depending on the weather conditions.

What are the other Panch Kedar destinations?

The other Panch Kedar destinations are:

Kedarnath Temple: It is the first, and the most famous temple among the Panch Kedar templs of Lord Shiva. Kedarnath temple is the place where the hump of the bull form of Lord Shiva appeared. The temple remains closed during winters and at that time, devotees bring the idols of the temple to Ukhimath for worship. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kedarnath, the ‘Lord of Kedar Khand’, which is the historical name of the region.
Rudranath Temple:It comes third, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples. It is followed by Madhyamaheshwar and Kalpeshwar temples. Moreover, the face of god Shiva is worshipped as “Nilkanth Mahadeva” here. Rudranath Temple is the place where the face of Lord Shiva appeared.
Madhyamaheshwar Temple: It comes fourth, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples followed by Kalpeshwar Temple. Peaks like Chaukhamba, Neel Kanth and Kedarnath surround the temple.Madhyamaheshwar Temple is the place where the navel of Lord Shiva appeared.
Kalpeshwar Temple: It comes last, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples. One must visit Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath and Madhyamaheshwar temples before Kalpeshwar temple. It is the only Panch Kedar temple accessible throughout the year. Also, it is a small temple and devotees have to pass through a cave passage in order to reach it. Kalpeshwar Temple is the place where the Jata (Tress) of Lord Shiva appeared.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

Kalpeshwar Temple

May 4, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Panch Kedar, Shiva Temples

Kalpeshwar Temple is one of the Panch Kedar temples in honour of Lord Shiva, present in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Also, it comes last, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples. One must visit Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath and Madhyamaheshwar temples before Kalpeshwar temple.

Kalpeshwar is the only Panch Kedar temple accessible throughout the year. Also, it is a small temple and devotees have to pass through a cave passage in order to reach it. The temple is in the Urgam valley, where the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Kalpganga is also present.

According to beliefs, Shri Adi Shankaracharya designed the poojas and rituals of the Panch Kedar temples. He was also the one who appointed the priests in these temples. It is a part of the 4 Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

What is the history of Kalpeshwar Temple?

According to the history, Pandavas established the Kalpeshwar temple. Pandavas slew their kin Kauravas during the Mahabharata. Hence, Rishi Vyas advised them to go to Lord Shiva, because only he could absolve them of their sins. However, Shiva kept hiding from them and took the form of a bull.

Then, he went into hiding in an underground safe haven at Guptakashi. Later, Lord Shiva’s body parts as a bull rematerialised at five locations. The Pandavas then built Shiva temples in these five places, popular as ‘Panch Kedar’ (Find out more about the Char Dham Yatra). Kalpeshwar Temple is the place where the Jata (Tress) of Lord Shiva appeared.

What is the significance of Kalpeshwar Temple?

The significance of Kalpeshwar temple is that the priests of the temple are Dasnamis and Gossains, who are disciples of Adi Shankaracharya. Devotees also believe that worship here at the temple is capable of absolving one of his/her sins. This is because as per mythology, Saint Durvasa cursed Lord Indra for his sins.

Indra, then came to Kalpeshwar temple and performed penance to please Lord Shiva. Later, Shiva blessed him and helped him gain his throne back. Kalpeshwar temples is also the only temple among the Panch Kedar temples to be accessible throught the year.

What are the timings of Kalpeshwar Temple?

Here are the timings of Kalpeshwar Temple:

Timings	From
Open	6 AM
Close	7 PM
Morning Aarti	6 AM
Evening Aarti	6:30 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at Kalpeshwar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kalpeshwar Temple are:

Mahashivratri: This festival is in the honour of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that he is the Adi guru who is the source of the Yogi tradition. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting, doing Yoga as well as meditating.
Dussehra: This is an important Hindu festival which is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Dussehra is celebrated as the day when Lord Ram killed Ravana and established peace and prosperity. As a ritual, devotees burn an effigy of Ravana.

How to reach Kalpeshwar Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kalpeshwar Temple:

Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport.
Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (251 km away).
Road: Buses are available to Rishikesh from ISBT Kashmere Gate. From Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi to reach Ugram village. The remaining distance has to be covered through trek.

Where to stay near Kalpeshwar Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Kalpeshwar Temple while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

The Tattva Resort: This hotel features a restaurant, 24-hour room service and Laundry facilities. Free continental breakfast, free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include A 24-hour front desk.
Monal Resort: This hotel features a restaurant, a 24-hour business centre and Concierge services are available at this resort. Free WiFi in public areas and free valet parking are also provided. Other amenities include Dry cleaning, A 24-hour front desk and a garden.
Hotel Mandakini: This hotel features a restaurant, a rooftop terrace and 24-hour room service are available at this hotel. Free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided. Additionally, a meeting room and A 24-hour front desk are on-site.

What are the other Panch Kedar temples?

The other Panch Kedar temples are:

Kedarnath Temple: It is the first, and the most famous temple among the Panch Kedar templs of Lord Shiva. Kedarnath temple is the place where the hump of the bull form of Lord Shiva appeared. The temple remains closed during winters and at that time, devotees bring the idols of the temple to Ukhimath for worship. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kedarnath, the ‘Lord of Kedar Khand’, which is the historical name of the region.
Tungnath Temple: It comes second, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples. Also, it is the highest Shiva temple in the world. Moreover, Tunganath mountains form Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys. Tungnath is the place where the bahu (hands) appeared.
Rudranath Temple: It comes third, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples. It is followed by Madhyamaheshwar and Kalpeshwar temples. Moreover, the face of god Shiva is worshipped as “Nilkanth Mahadeva” here. Rudranath Temple is the place where the face of Lord Shiva appeared.
Madhyamaheshwar Temple: It comes fourth, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples followed by Kalpeshwar Temple. Peaks like Chaukhamba, Neel Kanth and Kedarnath surround the temple.Madhyamaheshwar Temple is the place where the navel of Lord Shiva appeared.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh – Timings, Poojas, and History

August 2, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Shiva Temples

Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh is a Hindu temple in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It is one of the main holy shrines of Rishikesh. The temple is present near the famous Lakshman Jhula of Rishikesh. The temple is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand.

Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM

The temple is a 13-storeyed high building. Hence, it is also popularly called as ‘Terah Manzil Temple‘. The temple is having various idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. However, the shrine is mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name ‘Trayambakeshwar’ meaning ‘the House of the three-eyed‘ suggesting it as the abode of Lord Shiva.

Trayambakeshwar Temple – All you need to know

Temple Timings	6 AM to 12 PM (Morning) 2 PM to 7 PM (Evening)
Opening and Closing Dates	Open 365 days of the year
Time Required for Darshan	30 Minutes
Entry Fee	Free
Festivals 2019	Maha Shivratri
Best Time to Visit	September to April
Also called as	Terah Manzil Temple
Nearest Airport	Dehradun
Location	Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh

**People walking on Laxman Jhula to reach the temple**

What are the timings of Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh?

Timings	From	To
Morning	6 AM	12 PM
Evening	2 PM	7 PM

What is the history of Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh?

Trayambakeshwar temple of Rishikesh is one of the ancient temples. It is considered to be more than 800 years old. Shri Adi Shankaracharya established it in the 12th century AD.

Some devotees also believe that it is one of the Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva which is self-manifested. The statue is Swayambhu in nature. There are many sections in the temple which comprise of Vedic and religious texts. One can also see the intricate designs and architectural excellence on the walls and idols.

What is the significance of Trayambakeshwar Temple?

The significance of Trayambakeshwar temple is that it is the biggest temple in Rishikesh. The main attraction is the height of the temple with 13 floors. It is famous for the beautiful idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses as well as scriptures.

Trayambakeshwar temple is the place where one can worship all the deities at a single place. The temple is having various idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Unlike the other temples which are dedicated to one single God. It is located at a religiously important place near Laksham Jhula at the banks of Ganga river. A number of devotees visit this temple who come to visit Laxman Jhula- the hanging bridge.

Trayambakeshwar Temple Is Visible From Laxman Jhula

What is inside the Trayambakeshwar Temple?

Trayambakeshwar Temple is shaped like a pyramid. Trayambakeshwar (Lord Shiva) is housed at 13th floor (top most floor) of the building. There are dozens of small temples and some shops on the other 12 floors. The priests of those temples offer certain religious services for health & prosperity in return of a fee. You can skip all of these and can go straight to the top main temple of Trayambakeshwar.

The temple is designed in such a way that you have to cross the blessings of all small temples for darshan of one main temple. A staircase leads all the way to 13 floors of the temple.

There are no elevators or wheelchair ramps.

What are the major festivals of 2019?

The major festival celebrated at Trayambakeshwar Temple is Maha Shivaratri.

Maha Shivaratri – This festival usually occurs in the month of February/April. It marks the day of the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Maha Shivaratri means “the Great Night of Shiva“. Devotees celebrate it by remembering Shiva, chanting prayers, fasting, and meditating. Devotees keep awake all night. Some people visit Shiva temples. Some also go on pilgrimage to Maharashtra Pancha Jyotirlingas.

What is the main attraction of Trayambakeshwar Temple?

Trayambakeshwar is not only visited to seek blessings of Lord Shiva. But, people also come here to enjoy the scenic surrounding and Himalayan ranges. From the top floor of the temple, one can see a beautiful view of the Ganga river. The view is so calming and relaxing when watched from a height.

This temple looks really beautiful in the evening. The whole temple is brightened with golden light rays of the sun. Also, in the evening a “Ganga Aarti” is performed in the premises of the temple. This adds extra beauty and significance to the temple.

One can also go to Parmarth Niketan nearby around sunset for the must seen Ganga aarti.

How to reach Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh?

Here’s how to reach Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh:

Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest (23 km away from the temple).
Train: The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh (6 km away from the temple).
Road: Many buses are available for Rishikesh from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi. By car, it will be a 6-hour drive from Delhi.

The temple can be reached after crossing the Laxman Jhula. People can cross Laxman Jhula on foot. Another way to go to the temple is to catch an auto rickshaw.

White River Rafting Near Trayambakeshwar Temple

Where to stay near Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh?

Some of the places where one can stay near Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

Ganga Kinare: The rooms are spacious and airy giving comfort for guests. Room amenities include WiFi, TV, AC, coffee maker, and hairdryer. The Ayur Ganga Spa at the hotel offers a diverse range to rejuvenate the body and soul.
The V Resort: The resort offers a 24-hour front desk, travel desk, and doctor-on-call. Conference facilities are also there for corporate travelers. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool or can have a relaxing massage in the spa. The hotel also provides car rentals, luggage assistance, and daily housekeeping.
Green Hills Cottage: This cottage has the most beautiful architecture and luxurious interiors. It provides various modern facilities like parking, laundry, currency exchange, and front desk. The staff also ensures the timely fulfillment of all needs of the guests.

What are some temples near Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh?

Some of the temples near Trayambakeshwar Temple Rishikesh are:

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: The temple is 20 km away from Trayambakeshwar Temple. It is the most famous temple when compared to the other temples of Rishikesh. The main deity is ‘Neelkanth‘, a form of Shiva. He has a blue throat because of consuming poison. Visiting the temple is much more fun since it is located inside a dense forest. Several natural springs and waterfalls also surround the temple.
Lakshman Temple: This temple is 8 km away from Trayambakeshwar Temple. This temple is constructed as a dedication to Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram. People can not only worship inside the temple but can also relax and practice yoga within the temple’s premises.
Shri Bharat Mandir: This temple is 5 km away from Trayambakeshwar Temple. It ranks 10th among the many places to visit in Rishikesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The idol present here is carved out of a single piece of Saligram. Various ancient pots, coins, and statues were also found at the base of the temple.

Some Famous Temples Near Trayambakeshwar Temple

Frequently asked questions about Trayambakeshwar Temple:

What is the best time to visit Trayambakeshwar temple?

The best time to visit Trayambakeshwar temple is 06:00 am – 06:00 pm. It is open all days of the week.

When is Trayambakeshwar temple most crowded?

Mahashivratri festival and Mondays of the month of Sawan are the busiest days of the year.

What is the temperature in Trayambakeshwar temple?

The maximum temperature in summer can reach till 46^°C. The minimum temperature that can fall down is 7^°C in winter.

How much time is required to visit the temple?

The time required to visit Trayambakeshwar temple is 30 Minutes. It may vary on festival days.

Who founded Trayambakeshwar temple?

Trayambakeshwar temple of Rishikesh is one of the ancient temples. Shri Adi Shankaracharya established it in the 12th century AD.

What is the nearest airport to Trayambakeshwar temple?

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest (23 km away from the temple).

What is the nearest railway station to Trayambakeshwar temple?

The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh (6 km away from the temple).

Is there any security check for the temple?

None, you can carry your bags/purses to the temple.

Is photography permitted?

Yes, photography is permitted.

What is the entry fees?

Entry is totally free at Trayambakeshwar temple.