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Jakhoo Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Jakhoo Temple is an ancient temple situated in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. This temple is dedicated to Hindu God, Lord Hanuman. Jakhoo Temple is situated on the Jhakoo Hill in Shimla at a height of 2,455 m (8,000 feet) above sea level.

Shimla’s highest peak offers a panoramic view of the Shivalik Ranges and the town of Sanjauli. An ancient “Lord Hanuman” temple is there and every year a big festival is held on Dushera. You can go to the temple on foot from Ridge or can hire a pony/horse. Taxis are available too.

Jakhoo Temple has an interesting legend behind it. It is said that a deadly arrow injured Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana when he was fighting the battle with the demon king Ravana. A priest diagnosed Lakshmana and said that he needed a particular Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas to cure Lakshmana. Hanuman was sent to get that herb from the lofty mountains. Upon reaching the Himalayas, Hanuman couldn’t make out as to which herb was the Sanjeevani. So he dug up the entire mountain and flew back to where Lakshmana was lying injured.

After Lakshmana was cured, Hanuman went back to place the mountain in its original site. He rested on top of the Jakhu hill for some time. It is said that the top of the hill got flattened due to Hanuman’s weight. The temple has been built around the place that is supposed to have the footprints of Hanuman. It is a highly revered religious place of Shimla and devotees throng in huge numbers to pray. The shrine is a hotspot for monkeys who flock here in great numbers and generously accept eatables that are given to them by devotees and tourists.

Jhaku Temple

History of Jakhoo Temple

  • There is a story that Lord Hanuman stopped here to take rest while he was searching for Sanjivni Booti to bring back Lakshman to life in the epic Ramayana.
  • On arrival at the temple signs advise visitors to secure all personal belongings and beware of the monkeys, which are everywhere. This is appropriate as the temple is in honour of the Monkey Lord. Visitors must remove shoes before entering the temple.
  • There are several eateries at the Jhaku Temple site. Local visitors ring the bell for good luck before making the descent back into Shimla.
  • Just on the outskirts of this erstwhile summer capital of the British raj, a giant 108-feet-high idol of Hanuman (the Monkey God) was unveiled at Jakhoo Hanuman temple in 2010, overlooking the entire city.
  • Given its titanic size, it would not be out of place to say that monkeys will be omnipresent in this famous tourist destination which already has a large monkey population.
  • At 108 feet at the highest altitude of over 8100 feet and constructed at a cost of Rs 1.5 crores, it surpasses the statue of ‘Christ the Redeemer’, which measures at 98 feet and stands at an altitude of 2296 feet in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
  • The moment Hanuman landed on the hill, the hill could not bear his weight. As a result, the line runs hilly ground. More than half the land went into the original mountain.
  • The name of the hill ‘Jakhu’ is. It Jakhu ‘was named after a sage named James. Hanuman bowed to the sage and received detailed information about the lifesaving herb sage promised to bring lifesaving time will surely come to the hermitage of sage.
  • Hanuman in the way ‘Kalnemi called’ war on the way stop by the monster and beat him. The bustle and Smayabav the hermitage of sage Hanuman could not. James did not want to offend sage Hanuman because vanish suddenly appeared and were making their Deity.
  • The Hanuman temple built in memory of James Wiseman. Hanuman temple where he had put his foot that steps have been made from marble. Hanuman, the monkey god blessed sage until it is mountainous, worshiped by the people will.

Significance of Jakhoo Temple

  • 9 Jakhoo Hill is a play set in a home in 1950’s Jakhoo Hill, directed by Sunit Tandon.
  • World’s tallest statue of Lord Hanuman was unveiled to the public by Abhishek Bachchan on November 5th, 2010.
  • Jakhu Temple is situated at Jakhu hill which is at the height of 8048feet above sea level.
  • The snowy peaks, valleys offers a panoramic view of Shimla. The religious center dedicated to Lord Hanuman ‘ridge’ is located near to it.
  • From here visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. According to legend Manyata Ram and Ravana during the war between Lord Rama’s brother Lakshman Meghnad arrows were injured and unconscious.
  • All the time due to abortive treatment Vadyraj Susan said that one solution is left. Laxman saved the lives of Himalayan herbs can be lifesaving. I said Lord Hanuman devotee this crisis will bring lifesaving. Hanuman Himalayan and flew down the hill on the way, he ‘Jas’ walked down the hill, they saw the sage.
  • Jakhu Temple is now fitted with a giant statue of Hanuman, whose height is 108 feet. The statue was installed in 2010. Previously only 135 feet in Andhra Pradesh is a statue. Hanuman you appear anywhere in Shimla. To avoid monkeys at the gate of the temple also get stick. But if there is no tampering with the monkeys is good. It is said that the crews are Jakhu temple monkeys centuries.
  • Various trekking and mountain climbing mountaineering activities by the state government are held. Trekking path is surrounded by picturesque pine forests. Jakhu temple visitor to reach the ‘pony can also be hired. Jakhu hill by many shops in the area, which offer up to Trackers to help provide walking sticks etc.

Jakhoo Temple Timings

Jakhoo Temple is open for darshan all the seven days of the week. The darshan timings are from 7 am to 8 pm. It hardly takes 1 to 2 hours for darshan. There is no entry fee in the Temple.

Place to eat in Shimla

Jakhoo Temple provides food to its devotees. They are free of cost and all the expenses incurred are borne by the Trustees. Once the daily Puja is over, devotees are allowed to move for food. These food are made in a very hygienic condition maintaining the dignity of the Temple. The food includes three main courses and is given in plenty. All the expenses incurred are borne by the temple trust. Apart from the prasad provided in the temple, one can also have food from hotels outside the campus. These hotels provide clean and hygienic food. There are various other places to eat food. There are many hotels and cafes which provide food keeping the taste and needs of the devotees. They cost very nominal keeping the needs and budget of the tourists.

There are a lot of dishes which are given to the devotees. There are one-time free prasads served to the devotees. There are many other dishes that are served to the devotees for which they need to spend money. The food is prepared in a very hygienic conditions. All the eatables are taken good care while preparing food. Foods are prepared in a very hygienic atmosphere.

Apart from the food we get in the temple, there are many other hotels and places where one can have food. In Delhi, we can find food stalls everywhere. There are hotels and cafes like Cafe Coffee Day, Pind Balluchi, The First Floor Restaurant and many more. There are many other hotels which have nominal charges keeping the taste of the consumer in mind. They prepare food in a very clean and hygienic environment.

Places to stay

There are various dharamshala facility provided fo the devotees. The Temple Trust has themselves made dharamshalas for the devotees as well as tourists. Apart from dharamashalas, there are many hotels as well as private organizations that provide dwelling facilities to the people. The hotels have nominal charge keeping the need and budget of the devotees and the tourists. The hotels provide clean and hygiene environment to the tourists as well has good and hygienic food. Many hotels provide wifi facilities to the tourists so that they keep themselves connected to the whole world.

How to Reach – Road, Air and Rail

  • Air- The nearest airport to Jakhoo Temple is simla airport , shimla which is 10 km away from Jakhoo Temple.
  • Rail– The nearest railway station to jakhoo temple is Shimla Train Station which is 2 km away from Jakhoo Temple.

 Places to visit near Jakhoo Temple

  • Kali Temple- The trek up to the Kali Temple is an amazing experience as one comes across rare species of various animals, which also makes for some interesting photography. Situated at the Jakhoo Hills, the temple is believed to be about 150 years old and houses idols of three goddesses, namely Kali, Shyamala and Chandi. Kali Devi, however, remains the prime deity of importance here and sees devotees come to offer their respects from near and far. The place is surrounded by breathtaking views of the Shivalik Range. Situated atop a grassy knoll kept judiciously manicured by the local bovine population, the temple presents two manifestations of Kali to humble and inspire you. It’s also a great spot for a picnic.
  • State Library- As you walk down the charming street of the ridge in Shimla, you can see a small colonial-style building, standing as a lone structure right behind the Christ Church. It is the State Library in Shimla that was built back in the 1860s. Today it’s an important structure in the city from a cultural point of view and has preserved numerous rare and age-old books that await keen readers. It is a quaint building built in stone and timber with a sloping roof and wide wood-paneled windows adding to the splendor of the structure. Try taking out some time from your schedule and visit this lovely place to find some timeless books that you have always wanted to read.
  • The Ridge- A wide-open street in Shimla lying next to the Mall Road adjoining the Scandal Point is the Ridge. A hub of all activities, this place also offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains around Shimla. The age-old Christ church is also located on the ridge which is yet another reason for the tourists to swarm the place during the peak season. Moreover, just like the Mall road, no vehicles are allowed on the ridge. This place is also where festivals like Summer Festival, New year’s Eve and Christmas are celebrated with much fervor and joy.
  • The Mall- Once you are at the Mall in Shimla, you will witness the myriad of activities happening all around the street. Tourists roaming around scrutinizing the place, locals busy with their daily activities, enthusiastic groups enjoying street food, others actively bargaining at the roadside stalls and many such scenes are a regular part of a normal day at the Mall. Vehicular movement is restricted inside the Mall Road to maintain a pristine environment as well as for the shoppers’ and tourists’ convenience. It is the most important place of the city with the presence of places like the Viceregal Lodge and the Cultural complex. Spend some quality time at the mall road on your visit to Shimla. Be it shopping or eating at your favorite food joints, Mall road will offer you with some memorable moments here.

Baidyanath Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Baba Baidyanath Dham or Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. This temple of Shiva is in Deoghar in Santhal Parganas of Jharkhand. According to beliefs, the light of Jyotirlingam is the light of cosmos which is realized by the power of the soul as a whole.

Baidyanth Temple – Video

What is the history of Baba Baidyanath Dham?

According to the history of Baba Baidyanath Dham, myth and legend depict an interesting story behind the building of the Dham. During the Treta Yuga according to Shiva Purana, Ravana, the demon king wanted to have Lord Shiva’s abode in his capital permanently to make it safe from invasions.

So he meditated every day to please the Lord. The Lord found it impressive and asked him to carry his lingam to Lanka but with one condition that the journey from Mt.Kailash to Lanka should not stop in between.

And if so happened then wherever the lingam fell there it shall reside forever. The Gods fearing that this would make Ravana invincible acted against this plan.  So it was after many troubles and planning that Lord Vishnu tricked Ravana and brought the Lingam back to Earth where it sat permanently.  So thus the 12 jyotirlingas story begun and each had one unique legend behind its consecration.

What is the significance of Baba Baidyanath Dham?

Baba Baidyanath

The significance of Baba Baidyanath Dham is that the main temple is beyond historical dates. Devotees visit it since the age of Rama, the king of Ayodhya. The top contains three ascending shaped gold vessels that are compactly set, which were donated by Maharaja of Gidhaur, Raja Puran Singh.

  • Besides these pitcher shaped vessels, there is a ‘PUNCHSULA’ (Five knives in a Trident shape), which is rare.
  • The lingam is of a cylindrical form about 5 inches in diameter and projects about 4 inches from the centre of a large slab of basalt.
  • Devotees also believe that Shiva first turned himself into a Jyotirlinga on the night of the Aridra Nakshatra, thus the special reverence for the Jyotirlinga.
  • The jyotirlinga is the supreme partless reality, out of which Shiva partly appears. The jyotirlinga shrines thus are places where Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light.

There are 12 Jyotirlingas in India. 5 of the 12 Jyotirlingas are located in the state of Maharashtra.

What are the timings of Baba Baidyanath Dham?

Here are the timings of Baba Baidyanath Dham:

RitualsTimings
Darshan starts4:00 PM
Puja (Shodashopachar)4:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Re-opening6:00 PM
Shringar Puja6:00 PM onwards
Temple closes9:00 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at Baba Baidyanth Dham?

Where is Baidyanath Temple

Shrawan mela is one very famous festival celebrated at Baba Baidyanath Dham. During the month of Shrawan, lakhs of devotees throng the Baba Baidyanath temple. The Shrawan mela is very important and devotees celebrate it with much splendour and festivity. It continues throughout the whole Shrawan month for 30 days.

How to reach Baba Baidyanath Dham?

Here’s how to reach Baba Baidyanath Dham:

  • Air: Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport, Patna, located around 272 km away is the nearest airport.
  • Rail: Two railway stations namely Baidyanathdham (BDME) and Deoghar (DGHR) help in the visitors with regular trains.
  • Road: This area connects well by road to cities like Kolkata, Patna and Ranchi.

Where to stay near Baba Baidyanath Dham?

Some of the places where one can stay near Baba Baidyanath Dham are:

  • Hotel Mahadev Palace on B.L.C Road at Castairs Town is a relaxing place suited with great amenities that attract tourists.
  • Clarks Inn Amrapali which is 1.2 km from Baba Baidyanath Temple is another comfortable place to stay. It offers great multi cuisines that the guests savour. It provides guests with many luxuries and efficient services.

What are some places to visit near Baba Baidyanath Temple?

Some of the places that one can visit near Baba Baidyanath Temple are:

  • Trikuta Parvata, collectively famous as Trikutachal, is a combination of three main peaks on the hill, which are at the height of around 2,470 ft. The site is at a distance of around 10 km from Deoghar on the way to Dumka.
  • Naulakha Mandir is at a distance of around 2 km from Baba Baidyanath Temple. It has a similar architecture of Ramakrishna Temple in Belur. The shrine encompasses the beautiful idols of Radha and Krishna.
  • Satsang Ashram is a holy place where the followers of Sri Sri Thakur Anukulachandra gather to worship. The Ashram also has a zoo and a museum in its complex.

What are some other temples to visit in Bihar?

  • Mahabodhi Temple: The Mahabodhi Temple is an ancient Buddhist Temple in Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is about 96 km from Patna, Bihar, India. Mahabodhi literally means the Great Awakening and it is said that Buddha has attained enlightenment in this location. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Vishnupad Temple: Vishnupad Mandir is located in Gaya which is 100 km away from Patna, the capital of Bihar and is one of the most attractive temples. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it is believed that Lord Rama, along with his wife, Sita, visited this temple.
  • Patan Devi Temple: This temple is one of the oldest and the most sacred temples of Patna, the capital city of Bihar state in India. This ancient temple, which was originally called Maa Sarvanand Kari Patneshwari, is believed to be the abode of the goddess Durga. The temple is regarded as one among the 51 Siddha Shakti Peethas of the country.
  • Mahavir Mandir: Mahavir Mandir Patna is located near Patna Junction and is devoted to Lord Hanuman. Thousands of devotees come here each day to offer prayer and seek the blessing of Lord Hanuman. It is also called “Manokamana Temple” as it is said that each and every wish of devotees is granted.
  • Jagannath Temple Ranchi

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Baidyanath Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Baidyanath Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Baidyanath Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No, there is no online darshan facility available.

Can one carry mobiles and gadgets into the temple?

No. All electronic gadgets are prohibited in the temple premises (viz. mobile, camera, laptop). Free storage of the same is available at the entrance of the temple.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizen?

No. No such facilities are available. Although, a wheelchair can be made available upon request.

Is there any facility available for site seeing or nearby temple visit?

No. No such facilities are available.

What is the best time to visit Bihar?

The months of November to February is very ideal to visit the Baidyanath and the other temples located in the area.

What is the weather like during the summers?

The summers at Bihar start from March and continues until June. The summers here can be very hot. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Bihar?

In Bihar, winters start in November and continue until February. The temperatures during this time are around 20 º C. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Baidyanath Temple, please leave your comment below and we will get back to you within one hour.

Baglamukhi – Pitambara Peeth at Datia

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Baglamukhi at Datia in Madhya Pradesh consists of a Hindu temple and an Ashram. It is also called as ‘Tapasthali’ as there are many mythological and real people who have considered this to be a supreme place for meditation.

The power of Shakti of Mother Goddess is worshiped here and it is an important place of worship. The Shivalinga of Shree Vankhandeswar Shiva is inspected and approved by the Archaeological Survey of India to be of the same age as that of the Mahabharata.

Baglamukhi History

Goddess Baglamukhi is also known as Pitambara Maa. Once upon a time, there was a huge storm that erupted over the Earth. As it threatened to destroy the entire creation, all the Gods assembled in the Saurashtra region. Goddess Baglamukhi emerged from the ‘Haridra Sarovara’, and appeased by the prayers of the gods, calmed down the storm.

Another popular legend surrounding this temple states that there was a demon named Madan who underwent penance and won the boon of vak siddhi, according to which whatever he said, happened the exact way. Starting to take his boon as a point to torture innocent people, the heavenly livings were severely enraged, thereby worshipping Baglamukhi.

The Goddess stopped the demon`s rampage by gripping his tongue and silencing his speech forever. However, before she could kill him, he requested her that he is worshiped alongside the goddess, and she yielded. That is why Madan (the demon) is shown with her together.

Shri Pitambara Peetha is counted by the devotees among the most famous temples of Baglamukhi which was established by Bramhaleen Pujyapaad RashtraGuru Anant Shree Swami Ji Maharajin 1920s. He also established the temple of goddess Dhumavati within the ashram. Dhumavati and Baglamukhi are the two of the ten Mahavidyas.

Pujyapaad was also referred as ‘Swamiji’or ‘Maharaj’ by the devotees. There is no individual who had any information about either his identity or his place of origin. Moreover, he too did not disclose any such facts to anyone. However, he was a Parivrajakachrya Dandi Swami, who stayed on in Datia for a long period of time. He was and still is a spiritual icon for many who visit the Peeth or have been associated with him directly or indirectly.

During the Indo-China war, A Rashtra Anushtan Yagya was started in this temple which later was completed successfully. Maharaj Ji then thought of establishing the Dhumavati temple and also penned down the literature for the same.

In the year 1965 or 1971, Sri Datiya Pitambara Peeth has replied with vigor and established a spiritual attack by Tantrik Anushthanam to thwart the enemy’s efforts. The retreat of the enemy’s forces took place with the completion of the anusthanam. The same was organized during the Pakistani invasion on the Kargil front.

Significance of Baglamukhi Temple

Shri Pitambara Peetha is one of the most famous Shakti Peetha of Baglamukhi Devi at Datia in Madhya Pradesh. It is situated at a distance of approximately 75 km from Gwalior and approximately 30 km from Jhansi.

Pujyapaad Swamiji was a strong devotee of the Goddess Pitambara. He had a natural inclination towards the Sanskrit language but also possessed sufficient knowledge of Urdu, Persian and Arabic, English, Pali, and Prakrit languages. In addition, he was fond of classical music and various great classical musicians of that time used to visit the ashram.

Pujyapaad had led innumerable gatherings and associations for the protection and welfare of both the humanity and the country in large. Living legend who knows about Swamiji is Pt Shri Gaya Prasad Nayak Ji (Babuji) of Garhi Malehara. Pujya Swamiji Maharaj and Babuji’s Guruji were Gurubhai.

Some of the musicians who visited the ashram comprise of Pundit Gundai Maharaj, Siyaram Tiwari, Rajan and Sajan Mishra, Dagar Bandhu etc. One of the greatest classical musicians Acharya Brihaspati was the follower of Pujyapaad.

Moreover, one can also find many temples of Parshuram, Hanuman, Kal Bhairav and other god and goddess stretched across the large area of Ashram.

The Peeth is currently maintained by a trust.

The Ashram also maintains the Sanskrit library which was established by the Pujyapaad. One can get sufficient information that explains the history of the Ashram and the secret Mantras of various kinds of Sadhanas and tantras.

The blessings of Guruji helped Ustad Aadil Khan to recover his lost voice and from then on he became a disciple of Shri Maharaj-Ji.

One of the distinct specialties of the Ashram can be referred to the approach to spread the light of Sanskrit language to young children, free of cost. The Ashram also conducts Sanskrit debates across the years.

A devotee can see the Haridra Lake located in front of the main temple and at the back; there are an office and other buildings.

No individual is allowed to carry leather items in the form of a waist belt, wallet, purse etc inside the temple premises even after removing your footwear.

Devotees are encouraged to wear garments in yellow color during Sadhana.

Baglamukhi Temple Timings

  • Baglamukhi temple opens at 7 AM and closes at 9 PM.
  • The temple remains unavailable for a visit from 12 P.M. to 2 P.M.

Baglamukhi Temple Food Timings

  • The temple provides Prasad to the devotees after 12 PM.
  • One can also offer food to the deity in the form of fruits and coconuts.
  • Generally, people offer salted prasadam to the Goddess in this temple.

Festivals celebrated at the Baglamukhi Temple

  • The major festivals that are celebrated in this temple with great pomp include Navaratri, Guru Purnima, and Maha Nirvana Din or the death anniversary of Maharaj-Ji. As per the Shakti system; Navaratri is a perfect and auspicious day to start a Sadhana. A community hawan is organized on the Ninth day of Navaratri. The markings of the Lotus feet of Guru are also worshiped on the day of Guru Purnima.
  • Vasant Panchami is celebrated with much joy.
  • Every morning Saraswati Puja is performed.
  • Evenings see the Ashram immersed in sounds of India classical music.

Baglamukhi Temple Poojas and Rituals

  • There are four arati that take place in this temple. The Morning Arati takes place at 7 A.M. and the Evening Arati happens at 7 P.M. The Shringar Arati is performed at 8:30 P.M. and the Badi Arati is completed at 9 P.M.
  • It is interesting to note that the Baglamukhi Mantra is one of the most powerful mantras to attain powers to control over enmity feeling of your opponents, be it human or animals. But one needs to practice it after passing a qualifying eligibility test and under the guidance of a Guru or a Qualified Sadhak who is authorized by the Peeth. There is a set of discipline to be observed by the practicing Sadhak both in terms of self-discipline and one need to also correctly pronounce the complete Mantra. One has to be strong enough to hold the power of the Mantra. It is strongly suggested not to venture under the influence of any novice Sadhak.

 How to Reach Baglamukhi

  • By Air – Gwalior has its own particular airplane terminal that is situated at a distance of 8 km from the primary city. Gwalior is associated via air from Mumbai, Bhopal, Indore, and Delhi. Datia, on the other hand, is 75 km far from Gwalior.
  • By Train – Pitambara Peeth is located at the entrance of Datia city. The Datia railway station is located at only 3 km from the Pitambara and Bus stand is located at the distance of 1 km. There are many autos that are available from the railway station and bus stand to reach the auspicious shrine. This route is well connected by Rail from all parts of India.
  • By Road – A traveler can visit this temple by road as well. There are a lot of states and private buses that ply regularly from all major cities. Overnight A/C tourist buses are available from Delhi (321 km), Indore (486 km), Agra (118 km) and Jaipur (350 km).

Baglamukhi Accommodation

There are many hotels and lodging facilities available for people to stay at Datia in Madhya Pradesh. At a distance of only 1-2 km from the Pitambara Peeth, there are many Dharamshala that offer good accommodation at competitive prices. For an individual visiting alone, putting up at dormitories is also a good alternative. For people looking for luxury, there are many hotels that provide pickup and drop services to airports and railway stations for its clients. In addition to that, these fine places of accommodation also come with its own exclusive restaurants. In order to avoid any confusion, it is better to book the rooms in advance.

Where to eat

Madhya Pradesh also called as the ‘heart of Incredible India’ is famous for its variety of food. From vegetarian to non-vegetarian dishes, there are a plethora of options to suit the appetite of every traveler. If you want to enjoy a complete meal then, the Thali is a good choice. It is a balanced diet that contains all the essential ingredients. Additionally, there are many breakfast options, for example, poha, jalebi, samosa etc. This state is also famous for its sweets which are made of milk and has a unique taste. A tourist visiting this place makes it a point to taste some of the namkeens that are widely popular in this region. There are many local eating joints that provide food at a reasonable price.

For people looking for fine dining, there are many high-end restaurants that provide exotic dishes and sea food as well. Although the charges are comparatively high, they provide international cuisine and live music for the audience. Moreover, one can also customize any requirement in food and there are chefs who provide services as per the requirement of the client. So, it is sure that every person is bound to enjoy some wonderful delicacies with their loved ones and make memories that are worth cherishing in one’s lifetime.

Nearby Temples

  • Balaji Dham Unnav- One can travel 17 km from here and will reach Ichha Purti temple. Unnav is seventeen kilometers from Datia Headquarters. Balaji Temple is very old temple is said to be a specimen from the Pre-Historic times. People from very distant places flock to the Balaji Sun Temple on pilgrimage.
  • Sonagiri temples- It is a very popular pilgrimage destination for the Jains, who visit the shrine in large numbers annually to worship at these beautiful temples. There are more than one hundred temples that attract visitors and tourists from distant places. Sonagir is located at 15 Km from Datia and is connected by road and train.
  • Pancham Kavi ki Toriya- It is a beautiful and natural place that is situated at a distance of 4 Km from Datia. Pilgrims visit this shrine in large numbers which are also famous for ‘Bhairav Temple’.

Vishnupad Mandir Gaya Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Vishnupad Mandir is one of the most attractive temples in Bihar. A large number of devotees come here every day to offer prayer and seek blessings. Vishnupad Mandir is located in Gaya which is 100 km away from Patna, the capital of Bihar.

Vishnupad Mandir is located on the banks of Falgu River and has a footprint of Vishnu incised into a block of basalt. People believe that Lord Vishnu killed Gayasur by placing his foot on Gayasur’s chest.

Gaya is equally important for Buddhists as this was the place where Lord Buddha preached the Fire Sermon i.e. Adittapariyaya Sutta to around 1000 agriculture workers who were fire-worshipers. The influence of Buddha’s discourse was so enormous that all of them converted to Buddhism.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73cKZu2eN78
Vishnupad Temple – Video

What are the timings of the Vishnupad Temple?

  • Vishnupad Mandir is open every day. The darshan timings are from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
  • Vishnupad Mandir does not remain closed even on public holidays and the timings remain the same.

What is the history of the Vishnupad Mandir?

  • Legends say that the date of construction of Vishnupad Mandir, Gaya is unknown. It is believed that Lord Rama along with Sita Mata visited this place.
  • The present building of the temple was built by the ruler of Indore, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar in 1787. The temple was built on the banks of the river Falgu.
  • On the southwest of the Vishnupad Temple, there is a Brahmajuni Hills which is built above 1000 stone steps. There are many other small temples near.
  • It is believed that once a demon named Gayasur committed a penance. It was said that whoever sees him would get salvation. And as it is known that salvation is attained if a person does something right in his life, everyone started attaining it easily.
  • To prevent bad people, Lord Vishnu asked Gayasur to go beneath the earth’s surface. Lord Vishnu himself sent Gayasur beneath the earth’s surface by keeping his right foot and pressing him under the earth surface.
  • While pushing Gayasur beneath the surface, Lord Vishnu’s footprint remained on the surface. This footprint is still visible and we can see it. This footprint has nine different signs symbols including Shankha, Chakram, and Gadham. These symbols are believed to be Lord Vishnu’s weapons.
  • After being pushed beneath the earth’s surface, Gayasur started pleading for food. That day Lord Vishnu said that every day there will be someone who will feed him food and whoever will feed him will be sent to heaven. It is believed that if Gayasur does not get food, he comes out.
  • It is also said that Lord Buddha meditated here for 6 years.

What is the significance of the Vishnupad Mandir?

Where is Vishnupad Temple
  • Vishnupad Mandir Gaya has the footprint of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that this footprint happened when Lord Vishnu kept his right foot on the chest of the demon.
  • The footprint which we can see inside is around 40 cm long surrounded by silver-plated basin.
  • The height of the temple is 30 meter and has 8 rows of beautifully carved pillars. These pillars support the pavilion.
  • Vishnupad Mandir Gaya is built with large grey granite blocks which are joined with iron clamps.
  • The octagonal shrine of Vishnupad Temple faces east. The pyramidal tower of the shrine is 100 meters tall. There is a slope in the temple with alternately indented and plain sections. All these plain sections are set at an angle to create a series of peaks at the top, joined.
  • There is an immortal banyan tree where the final rituals for the dead are done. This banyan tree is named Akshayabat.
  • There is a gold flag and a couple of Kalash at the top of the Temple which always glitter. it is said that two thieves once tried to steal them, but one thief became stone at the temple and the other became stone and fell on the ground. These stones are not in the shape of humans, but a flat stone. These stones are kept for public view.
What is the history of the Vishnupad Temple

How to reach the Vishnupad Temple?

How to reach Vishnupad Temple
  • By Rail: The Vishnupad Temple is located 3 km south of Railway Station.
  • By Air: It takes around 17 mins from cab or taxi to reach Vishnupad Temple. The nearest airport is 7 km away from Vishnupad Temple. Patna airport is around 135 km away from Vishnupad Temple.
  • By Road: This temple is well connected by road to many places like Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Patna, Varanasi, Calcutta.

Where to stay in Gaya?

There are many places to stay in Gaya, Bihar. Gaya has a large number of a tourist attraction so there are plenty of places to stay while touring in Gaya. There are many hotels as well as the private organization which takes good care of the people. There are 5-star hotels as well as hotels with nominal charges according to the traveller’s budget. The charges of the hotels are very nominal as they keep the needs and demands of the customers in their mind. These hotels provide wifi, hygienic food and clean environment.

What are the places to eat in Gaya?

There are many restaurants in Gaya. Being a tourist attraction place, this city has a large number of restaurants as well as cafes. Every day there are a large number of tourist and devotees come here so there are a large number of places where one can eat. There are places like Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Hari Om Cafe, Khushi Family Restaurant, Siam Thai and many more.

What are some temples near Mahabodhi Temple?

  • Mahabodhi Temple: The Mahabodhi Temple is an ancient Buddhist Temple in Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is about 96 km from Patna, Bihar, India. Mahabodhi literally means the Great Awakening and it is said that Buddha has attained enlightenment in this location. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Sankata Maaka Mandir: This temple is the greatest tourist attraction of Gaya. This place gives inner peace and relaxes one’s mind and body. This place helps in making many great memories. Gaya is a place to visit after a busy weekday.
  • Mangala Gauri Temple: This temple is dedicated to Maa Mangala Gauri. Maa Mangala Gauri is a benevolent incarnation of Shakti. The temple has been mentioned in the Puranas and Tantric texts. It is said after Lord Shiva’s tandav and Sati’s self-immolation, her breasts fell in this place after a temple was made named Maa Gauri Temple. It is located at the top f the Mangalagauri Hills.
  • Pretshila Hills: Pretshila is a sacred place for Hindus. Pindas has been offered here for the ancestors here by many devotees. According to Hindu mythology, God Yama resides on the summit of the hill. This hill also known as Rock of Ghosts was earlier used for spirit worship but was later transformed into ancestral worship.
  • Phalgu River Ghats: The name Phalgu is derived from two words, Phala meaning merit and Gau meaning wish-giving cow. This place is used for performing ancestral rites. Two streams called Lilajan and Mohana originates from Korambe Pahar which is a high hill about 75 km south of Gaya, meet about 5 km south of Gaya. Lilajan is also the old name of Niranjana, a river in which the Buddha bathed and finally released his begging bowl.
Gaya

What are the places to visit in Gaya?

  • Tibetan Refugee Market: It is a place where you can buy lots of junk jewellery, bags and clothes. This is a very good market and all the product has a reasonable price. There are also books which help in knowing the history and culture of the Buddhist community very well. One can even buy Lord Buddha’s statue made of sandalwood or metal with various poses and moods. One can every buy handicraft items. This market has an open-bazaar system.
  • Dhamma Bodhgaya International Vipassana Meditation Centre: One of the most popular Vipassana centres in Bodh Gaya is Dhamma Yoga which is a favourite centre all across India. Courses here are usually of 10 days long, with some special one lasting for up to 20 days. All the courses begin in the evening for the first day and end on the morning of the next. There is a strict code of discipline which one must follow, so make sure you understand these rules before applying. You’ll need to take a form from their website and check for availability and course schedules to be a part of their Vipassana camps.
  • International Meditation Centre: Head to the International Meditation Centre to learn and participate in Vipassana Meditation, one of the most sophisticated forms of Yoga. This centre is run by trained professionals. This centre is a very good place where one can meet other yoga enthusiasts. The camps help by this centre helps in throwing away stress. You can join and complete a course of any duration that you please, at any time of the year. Run mostly on donations since 1970, the prices here are pretty affordable.

What are some other temples to visit in Bihar?

  • Baidyanath Dham: Baba Baidyanath Dham or Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. This temple of Shiva is in Deoghar in Santhal Parganas of Jharkhand. According to beliefs, the light of Jyotirlingam is the light of cosmos which is realized by the power of the soul as a whole.
  • Patan Devi Temple: This temple is one of the oldest and the most sacred temples of Patna, the capital city of Bihar state in India. This ancient temple, which was originally called Maa Sarvanand Kari Patneshwari, is believed to be the abode of the goddess Durga. The temple is regarded as one among the 51 Siddha Shakti Peethas of the country.
  • Mahavir Mandir: Mahavir Mandir Patna is located near Patna Junction and is devoted to Lord Hanuman. Thousands of devotees come here each day to offer prayer and seek the blessing of Lord Hanuman. It is also called “Manokamana Temple” as it is said that each and every wish of devotees is granted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Vishnupad Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Vishnupad Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Vishnupad Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No, there is no online darshan facility available.

Can one carry mobiles and gadgets into the temple?

No. All electronic gadgets are prohibited in the temple premises (viz. mobile, camera, laptop). Free storage of the same is available at the entrance of the temple.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizen?

No. No such facilities are available. Although, a wheelchair can be made available upon request.

Is there any facility available for site seeing or nearby temple visit?

No. No such facilities are available.

What is the best time to visit Gaya?

The months of November to February is very ideal to visit the Vishnupad and the other temples located in Gaya.

What is the weather like during the summers?

The summers at Gaya start from March and continues until June. The summers here can be very hot. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Gaya?

In Gaya, winters start in November and continue until February. The temperatures during this time are around 20 º C. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Vishnupad Temple, please leave your comment below and we will get back to you within one hour.

Haridwar Yatra Guide – Temples, Aarti, Things to Do

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra

In the Land of Gods, Haridwar situated on the banks of River Ganga is one of the pinnacles of pilgrimage that every Hindu devotee must make to pay obeisance to the holy trinity as well as the ultimate Mother Goddess Adi Parashakti or Sati. Haridwar is a place with high spiritual value for it’s not only a place sacred to the Shaivites and the Vaishnavites but also an important site of worship for the devotees of the Shaktism sect.

The distinction can be observed by the interpretation of the meaning of the name Haridwar or Hardwar itself. Shaivites prefer the name Hardwar – “Har” being another name of Lord Shiva and “Dwar” meaning the Gate. Hardwar to them represents “Gateway to Lord Shiva’s abode”.  The journey to reach Mount Kailash for devotees begins here. For the Vaishnavites, the name Haridwar means “Hari”, another name of Lord Vishnu and “Dwar” meaning the Gate.

The city is the gateway to reach Badrinath, one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Haridwar is also believed to be the abode of Goddess Sati. It is a belief that Daksha, her father resided at Haridwar in a celestial palace.

The city of Haridwar is mentioned in several Puranas and holy texts. In the Devi Bhagavatam, Haridwar is mentioned as a famous pilgrimage center. The city is also mentioned in the epic Ramayana and several times in the Mahabharata. The Vayu Purana and the Nilamata Purana also mention the holy importance of the region of Gangadwara.

Haridwar History

  • The city of Haridwar is believed to one of the oldest inhabited city in the world. Several archeological findings have proved that human civilization existed and flourished in the region as early as 1200 BC.
  • Haridwar was ruled by the Mauryas (322-185 BC) and then by the Kushanas (1st – 3rd century AD).
  • Writings of the Chinese traveler Huan Tsang who visited India in 629 AD under the reign of King Harshavardhan state the existence of fort and several temples at the region.
  • The first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak visited Haridwar and bathed in the Kushawarta Ghat (Kankhal),
  • The famous Mughal Emperor Akbar visited Haridwar and took a dip in River Ganga and drank her water as a mark of respect. Raja Man Singh of Amber laid down the foundation for construction and renovation of several Ghats at Haridwar.

Significance of Haridwar

  • According to the Garuda Purana, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places or Moksha Sthalas as per Hinduism. The other six are Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, Kanchipuram, Ujjain, and Dwarka. These places are of great religious and spiritual importance where either God has taken an avatar (Mathura and Ayodhya) or has great mythological value like Ujjain, Haridwar, Dwarka, and Varanasi.
  • The city of Haridwar was also called Gangadwar in ancient times. The River Ganga enters the Indo-Gangetic plains of North India at Haridwar after its origin at Gaumukh at Gangotri.
  • According to the Samudra Manthan event in Hinduism, Haridwar is one of the four places where drops of Amrit accidently fell to earth when carried by Garuda. The other three places are Allahabad, Nashik, and Ujjain. These four places celebrate the grand Kumbh Mela to commemorate the significance of the event.
  • The city is also the gateway of the famed Chhota Char Dham pilgrimage of holy places in the state of Uttarakhand. These Char Dhams are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
  • Taking a dip in Brahma Kund, at Har Ki Pauri Ghat is considered the most sacred bath any Hindu could perform. This is the spot where the Amrit fell on the Earth. It is believed that taking a dip here will wash away all the sins committed in a lifetime.
  • The holy surroundings of Haridwar are also believed to be the place where the holy Saint Kapila had an Ashram and did penance here. This place is also referred to as Kapilasthana in ancient scripts.
  • At the Ghat of Har ki Pauri, one can witness Lord Vishnu’s footprints that are worshiped with great reverence here.

Places of pilgrimage in Haridwar

The pilgrims take the famed “Pancha Tirtha” pilgrimage within Haridwar to receive the blessings from all the Gods and the Goddesses residing here. These five places are:

  • Mansa Devi Temple or the Bilwa Tirtha

The Temple is located atop the Bilwa Parvat at approximately 2.5 km distance from the city center. The Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa or Manasa. The Temple is one of the three Siddha Peethas located in Haridwar. The Goddess is widely worshiped in Bengal, North-East and certain regions in Southern India.

The Sanctum or the Garbhagriha houses two idols of the deity that are worshiped – one with eight arms and the other with three heads and five arms.

Mansa Devi Temple Legend

  1. The parentage of Goddess Manasa is till date contested by several versions in the Puranas. Some believe that Goddess Manasa was the creation of Lord Shiva (hence his daughter) when his seed touched the idol erected by Kadru, the wife of Sage Kashyap. Kadru was the Mother of the Snake people. Goddess Parvati was extremely jealous of her. Suspecting Manasa of being a co-wife, she burned one of her eyes. Goddess Manasa became the chief of snakes and is believed to be the one who saved Lord Shiva from being poisoned during the Samudra Manthan episode. Tired of the constant fighting between Chandi and Manasa, Lord Shiva left her under a tree with a companion called Neto.
  2. The other theory related to her birth is that she was the daughter of Sage Kashyapa and Kadru and the sister of the King of Serpents, Vasuki. Goddess Manasa married Jagatkaru on Kashyapa’s advise on the condition that she will never disobey him. One day, she woke him up late and as a result left her. On the request of Gods, he returned later and they had a son together named Astika.
  3. Disgruntled by the disputed parentage, angered by Chandi’s (Goddess Parvati) ignorance and disappointed by her husband’s behavior, the Goddess demanded that the mortals worship her. She was calm and caring to the devotees who worshiped her and rained calamity on the devotees who did not worship her.

Significance of the shrine

  1. It is believed that a sincere wish of a devotee made to the Goddess never goes unfulfilled. The locals believe that as a mark of respect, one ties a thread around the branches of a sacred tree denoting the wish. After the wish is fulfilled, the devotee should return and remove the thread.
  2. It is believed that the Goddess controls snakes. Hence, devotees visit her to cure snake bites, curses and other snake-related issues in their horoscopes. She is also believed to bestow fertility and family harmony.

Temple Timings

The Temple opens daily at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM. The Temple is closed for darshan between 12 PM to 2 PM.

How to reach the shrine

There are two routes to reach the shrine. One way is the traditional 1.5 km trek route to reach the peak.  The other way is the cable-car service called as the “Udan Khatola” service in the local language.

  • Gangadwar or Har Ki Pauri

The world famous Ghat along the banks of River Ganga is an epitome of sanctity. The devotees religiously believe that this is the place where Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva visited the Brahma Kund. One can also view the footsteps believed to belong to Lord Vishnu at the Ghat premises. This is the site where River Ganga actually enters the mainlands of India from the Himalayan mountain range. This is also the site where millions of devotees take a holy dip in River Ganga during the grand occasion of the Kumbh Mela. Every evening, the highly spiritual Ganga Aarti is held at 6:30 PM where hundreds of devotees light small lamps and let them afloat in the holy River with a small prayer in heart.

Any devotee or a tourist irrespective of caste, creed or religion must come and visit this place to experience the ultimate spirituality and the peacefulness that descends on the people witnessing the grand spectacle.

  • Kushawart (Kankhal)

The small town of Kankhal is located within Haridwar at a distance of 4 km from the city center. The site of Kankhal is mentioned in numerous ancient scripts and has a huge spiritual value. This is the place where it is believed that Goddess Sati immolated herself in protest of an insult to her consort Lord Shiva by her father Daksha.

Kushawart Temple Legend

The Daksheshwara Mahadev Temple is associated with the famous legend of Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva. This story is the basis of the Sthala Puranam and creation of Goddess Parvati herself. As per the legend, Daksha Prajapati, son of Lord Brahma did not want his daughter Sati to marry Lord Shiva. However, Goddess Sati married Shiva as she had always desired to do so. As a result, Daksha did not invite Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva to the Yagna he was conducting at the site. Sati wanted to participate in the Yagna and wanted Lord Shiva to accompany him. However, he refused. But against his wishes, Sati went to the Yagna. Upon arrival, she was humiliated and insulted by her father for marrying Lord Shiva. Daksha insulted Lord Shiva by calling him names. Unable to bear the humiliation of her husband, Sati fell into the Yagna Kund and immolated herself. When the news reached Lord Shiva, he was infuriated and sent his army to destroy everything in the Yagna. A huge fight ensued as Lord Shiva danced his Tandav. Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu had to intervene and calm him down. Lord Vishnu released his Sudarshana Chakra cutting through the corpse of Sati. Her body parts fell all over the land and are now known as the Shakti Peethas in Hinduism.

Temple Timings

The Temple opens at 6 AM and closes at 8 PM.

  • Neel Parvat or the Chandi Devi Temple

The famous temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi, a form of Goddess Parvati is situated atop the Neel Parvat. The Temple was built in 1929 by Suchat Singh, the King of Kashmir. The Temple is believed to be a Siddha Kshetra.

Goddess Chandi is worshiped primarily by the followers of the Shaktism sect of Hinduism. Even though there are no references to this particular form of Goddess Parvati in any Vedic texts, Puranas or Epics, the Devi Mahatmayam mentions the Goddess several times.

Neel Parvat Temple Legend

According to the temple legend, Lord Indra and other Gods of Heaven were overthrown by the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. Lord Indra approached Goddess Parvati to return their kingdom and get rid of the demons to balance the power on Earth. As a result, Goddess Parvati took the form of Chandi, a beautiful woman who attracted the attention of Shumbha. He sent his chiefs Chanda and Munda to bring her to him. However, they were killed by Chandi. Enraged, he along with Nishumbha tried to kill Chandi but were slain by the Goddess. It is believed that the Goddess rested atop the hill and eventually a temple commemorating the event was built for her.

Temple Timings

The Temple opens at 8 AM and closes at 6 PM. The shrine remains closed between 12 PM to 3 PM.

How to reach the Chandi Devi Temple

There are two ways to reach the shrine. The older route involves trekking a distance of about 3 km to the shrine. The newer route involves boarding the cable-car at the mountain base.

  • Maya Devi Temple

The eleventh-century ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Maya, a form of Goddess Shakti is worshiped here with great reverence here.  The importance of the shrine can be gauged by the fact that the city of Haridwar itself was called Mayapuri in ancient times. The deity worshiped here is in the form of a three-headed Goddess with four arms.

Significance of the shrine

It is contested but believed by locals that the shrine is one of the Shakti Peethas of Goddess Sati. It is a belief that her navel and heart fell at the site.

The site is also revered as a Siddha Kshetra along with the Mansa Devi Temple and the Chandi Devi Temple.

Temple Timings

The Temple opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 9 PM. The Temple remains closed between 12 PM to 3 PM.

How to reach the Temple

The Temple is located just 1.5 km from the Bus Stand and the Railway Station. One can hire a taxi from there till the temple.

Festivals celebrated at Haridwar

  • Kumbh Mela – As per the legend, Lord Vishnu’s vehicle, the Garuda spilled four drops of holy Amrit which he obtained by the churning of the milk on Earth. He was carrying the Amrit in a Kumbh (Pot). The drops fell in Haridwar, Allahabad, Nasik and Ujjain. In Haridwar, the Mela is held on the banks of River Ganga at Har Ki Pauri. The Mela is celebrated once every 12 years. The Mela has been officially and internationally accepted as the largest religious gathering in the world. Millions of pilgrims from all over the world attend the festivities and take a dip in the holy River Ganga.
  • Ardh Kumbh Mela – The Ardh Kumbh Mela is held once every six years. This Mela is held between two full Kumbh Melas at Prayag (Allahabad) and Haridwar.
  • Kanwar Mela – The Kanwar Yatra is also called as the Kavad Yatra. This is an annual pilgrimage or Yatra undertaken by thousands of devotees especially in the month of Shravan (July-August). The devotees of Lord Shiva who participate in the Yatra are called Kanwariyas. They travel barefooted to cities like Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Gangotri to collect the water of River Ganga. This water is then poured over Lord Shiva at their respective homes and other temples. This yatra is extremely popular among the devotees especially from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh.

How to reach Haridwar

  • By Air – The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport situated at Dehradun which is 37 km from Haridwar. The airport operates flights to and fro from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, Chennai and Lucknow. Apart from that, one can also reach the Indira Gandhi International Airport at Delhi which is well connected to all major cities in India.
  • By Train – Several trains from around the country connect the station Hardwar Junction. The city is well connected to places like Delhi, Dehradun, Bikaner, Patna, Howrah, Lucknow, Jaipur, Allahabad, and Mumbai.
  • By Road – The Haridwar bus station is located near the railway station. The state transport operates regular buses from Delhi, Rishikesh and Dehradun. Numerous private taxi operators provide connectivity to Haridwar from all towns and cities nearby.

Where to stay

The city is well developed and appropriate infrastructure for pilgrims as well as tourists has been constructed. Some of the budget options for a clean stay are Hotel Haridwar Residency, Hotel Gayathri Classic, and Hotel Bhagwati Nivas. Five-star options for stay are Country Inn Suites and Hotel Hari Heritage. It is advised to book accommodation in advance as the rush is always high.

Where to eat

The pilgrims and tourists can opt for a wide range of cuisine in hotels dispersed throughout the city. The food is mainly vegetarian.  The cuisine ranges from South Indian (Hotel Dosa Plates, Madras Restaurant, and Kwality Mysore Restaurant), North Indian (Hotel Hoshiyarpuriwala), Continental, Punjabi, Chinese (Chotiwalas Asli), and Bengali (Dada Boudir Hotel).