Myoksha Travels

Powered by The Temple Girl

Char Dham Yatra

Checklist: Things you must carry for Kedarnath Yatra 2022 – Tips

, 4 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra

Book Chardham Tour Package
Things to carry while traveling to Kedarnath – Video

Top 8 things to carry for Kedarnath Yatra

1. Light Baggage

As the Kedarnath Yatra involves a lot of trekking, it is important that you don’t carry a lot of luggage. Keep only those things that are important and you would require.

Kedarnath is a difficult yatra. Take our help in organizing this yatra for you. Check our Kedarnath Badrinath Tour Package.

2. Warm Clothes

Even during summers, the weather at Kedarnath remains very cold. Therefore, it is a must or you to carry enough warm clothes to protect yourself. Carry good and warm jackets, scarfs, socks, and good beanies to protect yourself from head to toe. Always check the age limit for the chardham yatra before you travel.

3. Medicines

As the Kedarnath Temple is at a high elevation, you would come across weather changes.  There are high chances for you to catch a cold and have a fever in those temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended to carry enough medicines that you would require during the trip. You must also carry medicines for stomach problems, vomiting, etc.

As it is a long trek, there are chances for accidents to occur. Therefore, it is advised to carry first aid kits for emergency situations.

4. Good Boots

As you have to walk a lot and also at an elevation, you should wear good and strong boots. Wear something that is not slippery, as you will have to walk in the snow. Wear something comfortable and strong, as you will have to walk for long hours.

5. Dry Fruits

Carry dry fruits, chocolates, wafers, biscuits to eat at regular intervals. As you would be trekking, it is advised not to have heavy foods and eat these light snacks from time to time. This would help you keep the energy you will need to complete the yatra.

6. Water Bottle

You have to keep yourself hydrated to complete the yatra. There are regular water points available. You can fill your bottles from there. However, you can carry your bottles if you don’t want to have the water provided to you.

7. Umbrella

If you are traveling to Kedarnath during the months of June to August, it is a must for you to carry umbrellas. These are the monsoon months and there are heavy rains during this season.  Even when you are traveling on other months it is advised to keep umbrellas with you.

8. BSNL Sim Card

BSNL network is the best network to carry to the Kedarnath Yatra. It provides maximum network connectivity. Other networks don’t work as good as BSNL. Therefore, it is advised to carry BSNL.

Other than these, you should also carry enough camera batteries if you are carrying a camera. Also, you should carry a fully charged power bank. This is because. you will face a lot of network problems during the trip.

Frequently asked questions about Char Dham Yatra

Har Ki Pauri

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples

Har ki pauri is a religious bathing ghat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Literally translating to ‘Steps of Shiva’, it is on the banks of Ganga, at the point where it leaves mountains and enters the plains. A dip in the Ganges at Har ki pauri absolves one of his/her sins.

This place also observes festivities during the Kumbh Mela and the ardh-Kumbh Mela and is included among the Char Dham Yatra destinations in northern India.

What is the history of Har ki pauri?

According to history, king Vikramaditya built Har ki Pauri in the 1st century BC for his brother Bharthari because he used to worship at this spot on the bank of river Ganga. Later, Hargyan Singh Katara, a Zamindar from Agra in Uttar Pradesh extended the ghats in 1938.

Many temples are present on the steps of Har ki pauri since the nineteenth century. However, many people believe that the city of Haridwar exists since pre-historic times, and is an important stop while taking a tour of the holy shrines of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

One of the most pious spots of the place is Brahmakund. Devotees believe that after the samudra-manthan, and the argument between the devas and the asuras, the amrit was carried by Garuda in a vessel. During his flight, a few drops of the amrit fell down at the spot where the Brahmakund is now present.

What is the significance of Har ki pauri?

The significance of Har ki pauri is that it is a landmark of Haridwar, which is one of the most religiously significant cities in India. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited the Brahmakund in Har ki pauri in the Vedic period.

Hence, it is a very sacred place for Shaivites, i.e., the followers of Lord Shiva. It is also the place where the famous ‘Kumbh mela’ takes place every twelve years and the ‘ardha-kumbh mela’ takes place every six years on the banks of river Ganga.

What are the timings of Har ki pauri?

Here are the timings of Har ki Pauri in Haridwar:

TimingsFrom To
Morning Aarti5:45 AM 6:15 AM
Evening Aarti6 PM 6:30 PM
Evening Aarti (Winters)5 PM 5:30 PM

What are the festivals celebrated here?

Some of the celebrations that take place at Har ki pauri are:

  • Kumbh mela: The Kumbh mela takes place after every twleve years in Haridwar, during which devotees from across the country take a holy dip in the river Ganga. The exact date is determined according to Hindu astrology.
  • Ardh-kumbh mela: The ardh-kumbh mela takes place after every six years in Haridwar.
  • Ganga aarti: The Ganga aarti takes place every evening at Har ki pauri. Pilgrims gather on both the banks of river Ganga to chant hymns and pray to the mighty river. During the aarti, the gongs in the temples start ringing and priests hold large fire bowls in their hands. Devotees also float diyas on the river which symbolise their hope and devotion. A similar ritual takes place at the Gangotri Temple, which is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra.

How to reach Har ki Pauri?

Here’s how to reach Haridwar:

  • Air: The Airport in Dehradun is around 45 km away. The nearest International Airport is in New Delhi.
  • Train: Haridwar is well connected by Rail and the Station is about 1.2 km away from Har-Ki-pauri.
  • Road: There is direct state transport bus between New Delhi and Haridwar.

Where to stay in Haridwar?

Some of the places where one can stay in Haridwar are:

  • Govind bhawan Dharamshala: Present right at the heart of the city, it has access to almost all places in Haridwar. According to reviews, the rooms are clean and spacious. The staff here is also very cooperative.
  • Hotel Teerth: This hotel is present right on the banks of river Ganga and is very close to Har ki pauri. It would be a favourable place for you if you want to enjoy a splendid view of Ganga.
  • Ganga Lahiri: It is a hotel that provides pick-up from the railway station by cycle rickshaw. It also provides a peaceful and aesthetically appeasing interior along with a great view of Ganga.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Har ki Pauri are:

  • Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar: Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple for goddess Mansa, on top of Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Also popular as ‘Bilwa Tirth’, this temple is among the panch tirth within Haridwar. ‘Mansa’ means ‘wish’ and it is a popular belief among the devotees that the goddess fulfills their wishes.
  • Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar: Chandi Devi Temple present atop the neel parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand is in the honour of Goddess Chandi. The temple is one of the panch teerth present in Haridwar. The presiding deity, Chandi or Chandika is a form of Goddess Parvati and exists in close association with Mansa devi. It is among the Char Dham Yatra destinations of Uttarakhand.
  • Neeleshwar Temple, Haridwar: This temple is present on the foot of neel parvat, near the Kushavarta Ghat and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A stream of Ganga flows near the temple, popular as ‘Neeldhara’, in which devotees take a dip before visiting the temple.  This temple is about 500 metres away.
  • Maya Devi Temple: Along with Narayan-Shila and Bhairav temple, the Maya Devi Temple is among the three ancient temples of Haridwar that are still intact. Its deities include Goddesses Maya, Goddess Kali and Kamakhya.

Madhyamaheshwar Temple

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: ,

Madhyamaheshwar Temple is one of the Panch Kedar temples of Lord Shiva, present in the Mansoona village of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Peaks like Chaukhamba, Neel Kanth and Kedarnath surround the temple. Also, it comes fourth, if one follows the order of Panch Kedar temples followed by Kalpeshwar Temple.

Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath temples are to be visited before Madhyamaheshwar temple. Also, Gaundhar and Kalimath are two important places on the route to Madhyamaheshwar. It is because Kalimath is a ‘Siddha Peeth’ and is of great spiritual significance to pilgrims. The temple has North Indian style of architecture and a smaller shrine popular as ‘Vriddha maheshwar’ is also present near the temple. It is a part of the  4 Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

What is the history of Madhyamaheshwar Temple?

According to the history, Pandavas established the Madhyamaheshwar 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). Madhyamaheshwar Temple is the place where the navel of Lord Shiva appeared.

What is the significance of Madhyamaheshwar Temple?

Significance of Madhyamaheshwar temple is that water from the precincts of the temple is so sacred that even a few drops are enough for purification. When the precinct of the temple is not available during winters due to extreme weather conditions, the symbolic idol of God is shifted to Ukhimath.

Inside the sanctum of the temple, there is a navel-shaped Shiva Lingam made of black stone. There are two other smaller shrines, one for Parvati and the other for Ardhanarishwara. Moreover, the temple priests are from Southern India and the priests of Madhyamaheshwar are popular as Jangamas.

What are the timings of Madhyamaheshwar Temple?

Here are the timings of Madhyamaheshwar Temple:

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

What are the festivals celebrated at Madhyamaheshwar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Madhyamaheshwar 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 Madhyamaheshwar Temple?

Here’s how to reach Madhyamaheshwar Temple:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport at a distance of 198 km.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh at a distance of 174 km.
  • Road: Buses to Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Then one has to travel by buses or taxis to Ukhimath.

Where to stay near Madhyamaheshwar Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Madhyamaheshwar 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.
  • 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 within Uttarakhand.

Lakshman Temple Rishikesh – Timings, Legends and History

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With:

Lakshman Temple is a popular Hindu temple in dedication to Lord Lakshman in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. He is the younger brother of Lord Rama. Devotees believe that the temple is present in the same place where Lord Lakshman meditated to attain enlightenment. It is believed that the jute bridge, now known as Lakshman Jhula, was constructed by Lord Ram. 

It is also a part of the holy Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Lakhs of devotees visit this pilgrimage every year. 

Lakshman Temple Facts

Deity Lord Lakshman
Location Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit September to April
Darshan Timings 5:00 am to 12:00 pm. 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional
Festivals Dussera and Diwali

Lakshman Temple Timings

People can have darshan at Lakshman Temple from 5 AM to 12 PM in the morning. There is an afternoon break from 12 PM to 2 PM. The evening darshan resumes at 2 PM and the temple closes at 9 PM.

Here are the timings of Lakshman Temple:

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM12 PM
Evening3 PM10 PM

What is the significance of Lakshman Temple Rishikesh?

Significance of Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh
Lakshman Jhula is the rope way used by numerous devotees to reach Lakshman Temple.

The significance of Lakshman Temple Rishikesh is that it is popular for its ancient sculptures and wall paintings. It is present in a religious hub, known as Tapovan. It is an area on the banks of the river Ganga where the popular Lakshman Jhula is present. Trayambakeshwar temple is also present nearby the Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh.

The Lakshman temple is close to the startup point of Rafting for which Rishikesh is quite famous.

White River Rafting Near Lakshman Temple
Lakshman Temple is close to the starting point of the popular sport activity of River rafting that is enjoyed immensely by the youths

What is the history of Lakshman Temple Rishikesh?

History of Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh
A beautiful chariot sculpture near Lakshman Temple that can be seen while crossing the Lakshman Jhula

The historical backdrop of this town is rich with various history and legendary stories. Frequently known as the ‘Abode of Gods’, Rishikesh is among the most ancient pilgrimage site of India. One can’t just discuss the history of Rishikesh, without referencing the Lakshman Temple. 

According to the historical backdrop of Lakshman Temple Rishikesh, Lakshman Jhula present close to the temple was built by Lord Ram in the form of Jute bridge. It continued after some time and after various alterations and remodels is available in its present structure.

What are the legends of Lakshman Temple Rishikesh?

Legends of Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh
The divine Lakshman Idol that can be seen inside the sanctum of Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh

There are a number of legends associated with the origin of this mythical bridge. Each one of them will leave you astonished with the myths –

  1. As per the legend, Lakshman who was the brother of Lord Rama crossed the river Ganges on a bridge he built with jute ropes. At a similar site, today stands the present Lakshman Jhula and Temple. 
  2. Till 1924, Lakshman Jhula near the temple was yet made of jute ropes. However, during an unfortunate flood that happened in October of that year, the jute bridge was crushed. 
  3. During the 1930s Lakshman Jhula was rebuilt with iron and steel and was opened for public in 1939. 
  4. According to another folklore, Lakshman meditated at this temple to seek spiritual enlightenment. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshman, on their way to the Himalayas, constructed a twig bridge to cross the river, Ganga.
  5. Legend has it that in the wake of killing Ravana, the demon lord. Rama and Lakshman bathed here to wash away their sins.

What is the architecture of Lakshman Temple Rishikesh?

The design of this temple has been done with splendour. You’ll get a wonderful perspective on the Rishikesh valley from here and the perennial river of Ganga. The temple has been beautifully done with the skilfully structured figures just as paintings. They are the features of this temple that one must observe. The architecture and designing of the Lakshman temple will take you back to an antiquated time.

The Lakshman Jhula situated near Lakshman Temple plays a major role in the daily life of Rishikesh.

What are the festivals celebrated in Lakshman Temple Rishikesh?

Festivals celebrated in Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh
Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh celebrates Diwali with much splendor and pomp

Some of the festivals celebrated at Lakshman Temple Rishikesh are:

  • Dussehra: This is an important Hindu festival which is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Lord Ram killed Ravana and established peace and prosperity on this day of Dussehra. As a ritual, devotees burn an effigy of Ravana. People also celebrate this festival on the premises of the temple.
  • Diwali: Diwali is celebrated as the day on which Lord Rama, after defeating Ravana, returned to Ayodhya along with his younger brother Lakshman and others. Typical celebrations of Diwali include lighting earthen lamps and worshipping the deities. During the festival time, the temple is decorated with the arrays of lights.

How to reach Lakshman Temple Rishikesh

Here’s how to reach Lakshman Temple Rishikesh:

  • Air: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is about 23 km away from the temple. It is a small, quiet and recently renovated airport handling many regular flights from Delhi.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is the Rishikesh railway station which is 6 km away from the temple. It is linked with Haridwar with three regular trains.
  • Road: From Delhi, Lakshman temple is about 230 km away and is well connected with buses. A bus journey might take about 5-7 hours which depends on the traffic. Many buses are available for Rishikesh from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi.

Where to stay near Lakshman Temple Rishikesh?

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

  • Ganga Kinare-A riverside boutique hotel:  The rooms are spacious and airy, keeping the comfort for guests in mind. WiFi, LCD TV, air conditioning, mini-bar, tea/coffee maker, electronic safe, hairdryer, luxury bath amenities are included. To rejuvenate the body and soul the hotel offers a diverse range of Indian and International treatments in the Ayur Ganga Spa.
  • The V Resort:  The resort offers a 24-hour front desk and doctor-on-call. The corporate travelers have the facilities of the conference room. Guests can even relax in the game room, have a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or visit the spa for a relaxing massage. A library, rentals, luggage assistance, housekeeping, room service, and travel assistance are all provided in the hotel.
  • Green Hills Cottage: Amidst the most beautiful architecture and luxurious interiors, the hotel features various modern facilities. The resort provides a front desk, room service, parking, laundry, rental, and currency exchange. The rooms provide comfort with amenities like television, telephone, tea/coffee maker, attached bathroom and other essential bathroom toiletries.

What are some temples near Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh?

Temples nearby Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh
The ancient temple of Neelkanth Mahadev and Bharat Mata Mandir is close to Lakshman Temple for devotees to visit

Some of the temples near Lakshman Temple Rishikesh are:

  1. Chandi Devi Temple: Chandi Devi Temple present atop the Neel Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand is in honor of Goddess Chandi. The temple is known as one of the panch tirths present in Haridwar. The presiding deity, Chandi or Chandika is a form of Goddess Parvati and exists in close association with Mansa Devi.
  2. Mansa Devi Temple: Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple for goddess Mansa, on top of Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Know as the panch tirth within Haridwar the temple is popular among devotees as ‘Bilwa Tirth’. ‘Mansa’ means ‘wish’, and it is believed by the devotees that the goddess fulfills their wishes.
  3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The main deity of the temple is ‘Neelkanth’ who is in the form of Lord Shiva. The temple has a Shivalingam present where devotees tie a thread around it while worshipping. Several natural springs surround the temple. Many devotees take a holy bath before entering the temple premises.
  4. Trayambakeshwar Temple, Rishikesh: Trayambakeshwar Temple is a multi-storied Hindu Temple in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It contains idols of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Moreover, it is present near the famous Lakshman Jhula of Rishikesh. It has 13 storeys, hence it is popular as ‘Terah Manzil Temple’.

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Lakshman Temple –

Is there online booking available for Lakshman Temple?

No, there is no online booking for Lakshman Temple since the entry fee is free.

Where we can stay near Lakshman Temple?

You can stay in Ganga Kinare, the V-Resort, and the Green Hills Cottage. There are few Dharmasthalas available too for devotees and tourist.

What is the nearest airport to Lakshman Temple?

Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun is the nearest airport. It is at a distance of 23 km from Lakshman temple.

What is the temperature in Lakshman temple, Rishikesh?

The maximum temperature in summer can reach till 35°C. The minimum temperature that can fall down is 8°C in winter.

How far is Lakshman Jhula from Lakshman temple?

The Lakshman Jhula bridge is just 250 meters far from the Lakshman Temple.

How far is it from the Rishikesh Badrinath Highway?

The Lakshman Temple is around 600 m away from the highway and can be reached through tempo traveller.

How far is it from Rishikesh?

The Lakshman Temple is 5 km far from Rishikesh.

How much time does it take to explore the Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh:

It will take you around an hour to fully explore the temple.

Which network is best for Char Dham Yatra? – Kedarnath, Badrinath Mobile Coverage

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra

BSNL is the best mobile network for Char Dham Yatra. It is available in all the four Dhams including Kedarnath and Badrinath. Airtel sim also works well. However, there are chances of not getting a connection everywhere. Apart from these two, you can also opt for Idea and Vodafone. It is recommended not to use Jio and other similar networks.

Book Chardham Tour Package

It is best to carry a BSNL sim as the other networks don’t work properly in the Char Dhams and the major cities.

https://youtu.be/l8EazMZCd5E

As the Char Dhams of this Yatra are located in the Himalayan terrain, you will lose network at many places. However, these networks work the best among all.

The more you travel and go towards the elevation, the chances of losing the network connectivity increases. As you move towards the city like Rudraprayag, Uttarkashi etc, you will get back the network connection.

Frequently asked questions about Char Dham Yatra