Char Dham Yatra

Panch Prayag – Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand

June 28, 2022, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Panch Prayag

Panch Prayag is a manifestation in the spirit of the Hindu religion. The expression is used to signify the five holy river confluences in the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand.

The word ‘Prayag’ breaks down to the confluence of two or more rivers. Moreover, Panch Prayag goes by the name ‘Panch Pentad’ in Sanskrit. Nevertheless, five confluences in the descending order of their existence are Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag.

Holy Pathways of Panch Prayag

Alaknanda originates from the triangular lake called Satopanth. It is present 4402 metres above sea level. Moreover, Satopanth gets its name from Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Bhagirath Kharak Glaciers lying near Nanda Devi peak in Uttarakhand.

Holy trail of Panch Prayag — Satopanth is the origin of the Holy Alaknanda river.

In the course of 229 km from its origin Alaknanda crosses all the five Prayags. Moreover, it finally unifies with Bhagirathi and gives rise to the Holy Ganges or Ganga. Nevertheless, it continues to flow down further to Rishikesh and Haridwar that share the banks of Ganges in Uttarakhand.

Each Sangam or confluence has developed religious towns near them due to the inflow of pilgrims visiting Panch Kedar and Sapta Badri temples. Also, devotees take bath at these holy Sangam while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.

The town names inspired by these confluences are titled as Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag. However, Vishnuprayag does not have a town at its bank yet it is 12 km from Joshimath.

The Essence of the Five Prayags

According to Hindus, Prayag is the sacred Sangam of rivers where devotees take a dip before worship. Also, people arrive at these sacred sangams to perform the last rites for the dead. Moreover, the devotees worship holy confluences as God’s manifestation on Earth.

Essence of Panch Prayag — Dip in the holy waters of Prayag is believed to wash away ones sins.

However, the Prayag at Allahabad is considered to be the holiest. Nevertheless, the Panch Prayag of Uttarakhand is just next to them. Apart from numerous tales from the Puranas, these Prayags are home to the amazing scenic beauty.

Moreover, the religious texts state that Panch Prayag in Uttarakhand is the Svargarohana route that the Pandavas took to reach heaven.

How to get to these confluences?

Rishikesh is the point of start for your Panch Prayag journey. It is near to Haridwar that has train connectivity to all the major cities of India. Moreover, Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is at a distance of 18 km from Rishikesh.

Besides these, one can take a road trip to Rishikesh from different parts of the country. However, one can hire private taxis to Rishikesh as per their convenience.

From Rishikesh, the distance of the five Prayags are –

Name of the Prayag	Distance from Rishikesh
Vishnuprayag	263 km
Nandaprayag	193 km
Karnyaprayag	173 km
Rudraprayag	141 km
Devprayag	74 km

Portrayal of Panch Prayag

Vishnuprayag– After Alaknanda descends from Satopanth, Dhauliganga merges into it at this Sangam. Moreover, Ahlayabai, the queen of Indore constructed a Vishnu temple at this Prayag.
Nandaprayag– Here, Alaknanda meets Nandakini river and the two rivers unify. However, this confluence gets its name from King Nanda who performed yagna at this place in pursuit of a son.
Karnaprayag– This is the confluence of river Alaknanda and Pindar. Beliefs say that Krishna cremated Karna at this place only. Hence, there is a Karna temple by the banks of the confluence.
Rudraprayag– At this place, Mandakini river joins Alaknanda in its flow. Moreover, traditional tales suggest that Shiva appeared in its Rudra avatar at this place in front of Sage Narada. Hence, the place has Shiva temples in abundance.
Devprayag– This confluence gives birth to the mainstream Ganges as Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify. Devprayag means ‘Godly confluence‘. Moreover, the inspiration of the confluence’s name is taken from sage Dev Sharma from Satyug, who got blessings from Lord Vishnu. Lord Ram also meditated here so it has many Ram temples too.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panch Prayag

Where is the Panch Prayag located?

Panch Prayag is present in the ‘God’s Land’ i.e. Uttarakhand.

Which river meets Alaknanda at Karna Prayag?

Pindar meets Alaknanda at Karna Prayag.

How many Prayags are there in Uttarakhand?

As the name, Panch Prayag suggests there are five Prayag in Uttarakhand.

When should one visit these Prayags?

The best time to visit these Prayags is from March to October.

Best time to visit Kedarnath

March 13, 2020, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra

What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

Summer (May and June) is the best time to visit Kedarnath. You can also travel during September and October. You must avoid travelling to Kedarnath during Monsoon (July and August). During this time this place witnesses heavy rainfall.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath – Video

The Kedarnath Dham is kept open for the pilgrims for only some months. This is due to extreme weather conditions. The climate of Kedarnath remains cold during most of the year. Even during summers, the weather can become very cold during the evening

Summer Season: This is the best season to visit Kedarnath Dham. Summer in Kedarnath stays from April to June. The view is beautiful and there is freshness everywhere. Although, even during the summers, it can get extremely cold during the evening. You must carry proper warm clothes to protect yourself.
Monsoon Season: July and August are the Monsoon months in Kedarnath. This place witnesses heavy rainfall during these months. There are chances of landslides and floods. It is advised not to travel during these months.
Pre-Winter Season: September and October cover Pre-Winters. This time is also very ideal to visit the Kedarnath Dham. Just after the rains, the weather becomes very beautiful. The places are full of greenery. The beauty of the whole region increases during this time.
Winter Season: Winters at this place starts around the end of November and continues till March. During this time, the place will witness heavy snowfall. Due to extremely cold weather, the shrines are kept closed for the pilgrims. It again opens in April.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi

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

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi is one of the most sacred temples in Uttarakhand, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is present on the banks of river Bhagirathi and is one of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Shiva
Location	Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Darshan Timings	06:00 am to 08:00 pm
Entry Fees	Free
Dress Code	Traditional Wear
Festivals	Maha Shivratri, Magh Mela

The lingam is a Swayambhu, that is, the lord has manifested the lingam himself. During the Magh Mela, devotees visit the temple to take a holy dip in the river Bhagirathi.

The Shiva lingam in the temple is 56cm in height and is tilted towards South.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi – Aarti Timings

Here are the timings of the temple:

Timings	From	To
Mangala Aarti	3 AM	4 AM
Bhoga Aarti	11:15 AM	12:20 PM
Sandhya Aarti	7 PM	8:15 PM
Shringara Aarti	9 PM	10:15 PM
Shayana Aarti	10:30 PM	11 PM

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi Timings — Temple Timings : 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

What is the significance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

The significance of the temple is that Lord Shiva is present here in the form of a self-manifested lingam, immersed in deep meditation. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple also has Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha.

Nandi is also present in the outer chamber of the temple.

According to beliefs, a true devotee of Shiva attains ‘Moksha‘ (salvation) and also lives with Shiva in his abode at Mount Kailash after truthful service and worship at the Temple.

Devotees also believe that Lord Shiva himself blows the mantra of salvation in the ears of the people who die naturally at the temple. Hence, it is an important halt in the tour of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

What is the history of Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi History — Sage Parshuram installed the temple initially.

However, as per records, Maharani Khaneti, the wife of Sudarshan Shah renovated the temple in 1857.
The current temple is present over its pre-existing altar. Also, it has a traditional Himalayan architecture.
As per beliefs, Lord Vishwanath considers this his abode from the second part of Kalyuga.
Devotees also believe that Lord Kashi Vishwanath will be shifted to this location when Varanasi (Kashi) will get submerged.
According to mythology, Lord Shiva himself protected Rishi Markandeya from Lord Yama, the God of death.
Moreover, the temple has an image of Sakshi Maharaj and Rishi Markandeya in meditating posture.

What are the festivals celebrated at Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

Some of the festivals celebrated at the Temple are:

Maha Shivratri: Mahashivratri is celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva also popular as Shankara. Priests wash the Shivalinga every three hours that day with cow’s milk, curd, honey, cow ghee as well as water. Also, women pray for the well being of their husbands and children. Girls keep fast so that they get a good and understanding husband. During this festival, the devotees decorate the lingam with flowers and conduct the Abhishek with milk.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi Festival — Mahashivratri is celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, popular as Shankara

Magh Mela: It is celebrated on the day of Makar Sankranti in the month of Magh, according to the Hindu calendar. Traditional and cultural activities take place in the Magh Mela such as taking out a procession of dolls to the Vishwanath temple.

How to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

Here’s how to reach the Temple:

Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, at a distance of 171 km from the temple.
Train: The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh as well as Dehradun (about 167 km from the temple)
Road: The temple is located near NH 34 and state transport buses are available for commuting.

Where to stay near Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

Some of the places where one can stay near the Temple area:

Hotel Bahuguna Palace: This hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a shared kitchen. Other facilities also include a terrace and free WiFi is available. Moreover, guest rooms at the hotel have a seating area and a TV.
5 Elements Hotel: With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to the city’s must-see destinations. The hotel also provides 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, Wi-Fi in public areas to ensure our guests the greatest comfort on the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.
River- View Resort: Featuring a shared lounge, the resort has air-conditioned rooms as well as free WiFi. There is also a restaurant. Moreover, all rooms have a toaster, a fridge, a coffee machine, a bidet, free toiletries, and a desk. The resort also provides certain rooms that include a balcony.

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

What are some temples near Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

Some temples near Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi 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 at the Neel parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand is in the honor of Goddess Chandi. The temple is also one of the panch teerth present in Haridwar. Moreover, the presiding deity, Chandi or Chandika is a form of Goddess Parvati and exists in close association with Mansa Devi.
Shakti Temple: This temple is present on the opposite side of the Vishwanath temple in Uttarkashi and is in honor of Goddess Parvati. Also, the main attraction of the temple is a huge ‘Trishul’ which is 6 meters high. Moreover, it is over 1500 years old. One amazing feature of the trishul is that it cannot be moved with your entire body force but it vibrates the moment you apply pressure with one of your fingers.

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

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions about Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi

What are the temple timings of Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi?

The temple timing of Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi is from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

What is the location of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

The Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi is dedicated to which God?

The Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Own car in Char Dham Yatra

January 28, 2020, Sasidhar Darla 11 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra

Can we take our own car in char dham?

Yes, you can take your own car in Char Dham Yatra. However, it is not recommended to do so. Many narrow roads connect the Char Dhams. Therefore, it is safer to hire one experienced travel company. They would provide you experienced drivers who have driven in these roads before.

Get Experienced Drivers for Chardham

We provide experienced drivers and clean hotels for char dham

Char Dham Yatra Tour Package – Details

The Char Dhams are the Dhams of Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple. These Dhams could be visited by trekking and driving. One has to drive through extremely narrow hilly areas. Therefore, one who is not experienced with driving through hilly areas should not take their car.

Here is the driving route if you are taking your own car in Char Dham Yatra:

Delhi to Haridwar: The distance is 210kms and time taken to cover the distance is 6hrs.
Haridwar to Barkot: The distance is 220kms and time taken to cover it is 7hrs.
Barkot to Yamunotri: The distance is 36km driving and 6kms trekking.
Barkot to Uttarkashi. The distance is 110kms and time taken to cover it is 4.5hrs.
Uttarkashi to Rudraprayag: The distance is 175kms and time taken is 6hrs.
Rudraprayag to Kedarnath: The distance is 75kms drive and 25kms trek.
Rudraprayag to Badrinath: The distance is 160kms and time taken to cover the distance is 8hrs.
Rishikesh to Delhi: The distance is 230kms and the time taken is 6hrs.

Myoksha Travels provides well-experienced drivers ensuring the safety of its customers in the risky roads.

Frequently asked questions about Char Dham Yatra

Lakshman Temple Rishikesh – Timings, Legends and History

August 3, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Other Temples

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:

Timings	From	To
Morning	5 AM	12 PM
Evening	3 PM	10 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 –

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.
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.
During the 1930s Lakshman Jhula was rebuilt with iron and steel and was opened for public in 1939.
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.
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:

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.
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.
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.
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.