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Sapta Badri Temples – List, History, Map, Best Time to Visit

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Sapta Badri are the seven holy Shrine temples of Char Dham Yatra are dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Badrinath, Adi Badri, Vriddha Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Yogadhyan Badri, Dhyan Badri, and Ardha Badri are seven Sapta Badri.

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

Deity Seven holy Shrine temples of Lord Vishnu
Location Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit May to June and September to October
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear

Trek to these holy Hindu Temples lies in Badri Van (means forest of Berries), from Satopanth Glacier above Badrinath temple to Badri-Kshetra village near Karnprayag in Uttarakhand.

Route of Sapta Badri

List of Seven Badri –

1. Badri Vishal (Badrinath)

Badri Vishal or Badrinath is the main Badri and temple of Lord Vishnu that is located on the bank of the Alaknanda River in Mana Village of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. Read More..

Badrinath Temple

2. Adi Badri

Adi Badri Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is the second temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu in Adi Badri temple whenever Badrinath temple remains closed due to extremities in the weather. Read more..

Adi Badri Intro

3. Vriddha Badri

Vriddha Badri Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Joshimath, Uttarakhand. It is the third temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples. Sage Narada performed penance in this region to appease Lord Vishnu. Read more..

Vriddha Badri

4. Bhavishya Badri

Bhavishya Badri Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Subhai, Uttarakhand. It is the fourth temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples.Devotees believe it to be the future abode of Badrinath at the end of the Kali Yuga when there will be the destruction of the present world and the creation of a new world. Read more..

Bhavishya Badri

5. Yogadhyan Badri

Yogadhyan Badri Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Pandukeshwar village near Govind Ghat in the district of Chamoli, Uttarakhand. It is the fifth temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples. According to the religious texts, the king Pandu worshipped here to get rid of him from the sin of killing of two mating deer; the two deer were ascetics in their previous lives. The Pandavas were also born here. Read more..

Yogadhyan Badri

6. Dhyan Badri

Dhyan Badri Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Urgam Valley near Kalpeshwar,  in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. It is the sixth temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples. Urvarishi, son of King Puranjaya of the Pandavas lineage meditated in Urgam valley and established a temple of Lord Vishnu here. Read more..

Dhyan Badri

7. Ardha Badri

Ardha Badri Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Joshimath, Uttarakhand. It is the seventh temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples. Ardha Badri in comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means ‘the little Badri‘. Read more..

Ardha Badri

Har Ki Pauri

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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.

Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar Guide – Timings, Significance and History

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Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar is dedicated to ‘Bharat Mata’. The word ‘Bharat Mata’ means ‘Mother India’. This multi-storey building is built with an extraordinary concept. It is alongside Samanvay Ashram on the banks of the holy river Ganga. The temple has 8 storeys, each depicting an era of Indian history, from the days of Ramayana until Independence.

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

Bharat Mata Mandir – Facts

Deity Bharat Mata
Location Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Significance Nation Goddess
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 Republic Day and Independence Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbXbruYG0zE
Watch FULL VIDEO on Bharat Mata Temple

Bharat Mata Mandir Timings

People can have darshan at Bharat Mata Mandir 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 Bharat Mata Mandir temple:

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar?

Significance of Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar
From the eighth floor of Bharat Mata Mandir, the view of Saptsarovar is mesmerizing

The Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar signifies ‘Bharat Mata’ that represents ‘Aryavarta’. It also means the motherland of Hinduism as per Hindu Nationalism. It remains as the ‘vision of a unified motherland’. The divine statue symbolizes the Goddess of India. It stands for all the religious deities, freedom fighters, and leaders.

The temple showcases Bharat Mata in human appearance of the Indian country. The temple is loved by all Indians independent of their rank, belief or color. 

Located on the banks of the holy river Ganga. It welcomes everyone from different religions and communities. The key features that signify the temple and make it one of its kinds are as follows:

  1. Dispensaries of allopathic and homoeopathic.
  2. Diagnostic camps and physiotherapy centres.
  3. Gaushala which is a kind of cow shed with ultra-modern facilities.
  4. Ved Vidyalaya where you can study Vedas.
  5. Bharat Sadie is an old age home there.
  6. Atithi Sewa Kendra known as Samanvaya Kutir.
  7. Satsang Bhawan.
  8. A library.
  9. Rooms for accommodation.

What is the history of Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar?

History of Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar
A historical day when Swami Satyamitranand Giri visited Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar

The temple is dedicated to each one of the individuals who had a significant influence in the battle for freedom. This temple was built before India was partitioned. The Bharat Mata temple is around two kilometres from the cantonment territory. Represented as a goddess, Bharat Mata temple is an incredible remembrance of unified India.

Established by Swami Satyamitranand Giri, Bharat Mata Temple is a one of a kind temple. It is sacred to Mother India and her cultural magnificence. Vishwa Hindu Parishad was the organization that constructed the Bharat Mata Mandir. The Late Indian Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi inaugurated the temple on 15 May 1983.

The renowned sculpture artist Abanindranath Tagore portrayed Bharat Mata as a Hindu goddess. She is portrayed with four arms, wearing robes of saffron colour, holding a book, sheaves of rice, a mala, as well as a white cloth. 

What is the architecture of Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar?

The architecture of Bharat Mata Mandir
The Marble Idol of the Map of India designed in the ground of Bharat Mata Mandir

Despite the fact that there isn’t much grandeur and loftiness in the structure. It houses a marble Bharat Mata icon symbolizing India and a marble map of India designed on the ground. The temple is a contrast among many different temples. It doesn’t cherish a specific God or Goddess loved by religious devotees. 

The floors of Bharat Mata Temple are dedicated to many different Gods and mythological heroes.

What does each floor represent of Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar?

Floors of Bharat Mata Mandir
The galleries inside the temple have a lot of Gods and Goddesses inside it.

At an astounding height of 180 ft, the temple is spread over eight floors. Each level of the floor is dedicated to many different gods and mythological heroes. We have tried to give a short detailed explanation of the same in the following list –

  1. First Floor – Bharat Mata: The first floor is dedicated to Mother India. It was a divine statue of Bharat Mata which adorns the floor along with a designed map of India.
  2. Second Floor – Shoor Mandir: The second floor is commonly known as the Shoor Mandir. It is dedicated to all the freedom fighters that played a role for our Independence.
  3. Third Floor – Matru Mandir: The third floor stands for the revered women of our culture. It is dedicated to honouring women like Ahilya, Savitri, Anusuya, Radha, Draupadi, Mira, etc.
  4. Fourth Floor – Sant Mandir: Every great saint is featured in this floor from different religions of India including Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.
  5. Fifth Floor: The floor includes a lobby embellished with works of art.  It depicts the history and excellence of various areas.
  6. Sixth Floor: It is dedicated to the manifestation of Goddess Shakti. Goddess-like Durga, Parvati, Sati, Radha, Goddess Saraswati, and Kali is here.
  7. Seventh Floor: The floor is devoted to manifestations and types of Lord Vishnu.  It includes Ram, Krishna, and Matsya.
  8. Eight Floor: The highest level offers a stunning perspective. The Himalaya mountain range and Sapt Sarovar can be viewed from here.

What are the festivals celebrated at this temple?

Celebrations of Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar
The celebration of 15th August as Independence Day in Bharat Mata Temple

Some of the festivals celebrated at Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar are:

  • Independence Day: 15 August is celebrated as the Independence day on a grand scale at Bharat Mata Mandir. On the holiday, throughout India people celebrate with flag-hoisting. There are ceremonies and parades as well as cultural events. People play patriotic songs on loudspeakers and on radio channels in the country. The temple also celebrates the day with flag hoisting.
  • Republic Day: 26 January is the Indian Republic day. Republic Day honours the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect. It replaced the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. The temple too celebrates the day with much pomp and glory like the rest of the country.
  • Other Festivals: Along with these festivals, many other prominent national festivals are also celebrated here in the temple. People celebrate the festivals to honour the legendary and national heroes in the temple premises. 

How to reach Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar?

Located at Motichur, Haridwar near the banks of the holy river Ganga. Bharat Mata Mandir can be reached by any means of transport. Here is a detailed list to help you with the same –

  • By Air: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport. It is approximately located at a distance of 30 km from the temple. Tourists can hire private cabs or get buses to reach the temple from the airport.
  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar, at a distance of 7 km from the temple. The station links major cities of India.
  • By Road: A large number of state-owned and private buses for Haridwar are available.  From ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi, you can choose the bus to travel. Tourists can opt for Air-conditioned or deluxe luxury coaches to travel with comfort.

Where to stay nearby?

Places to stay near Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar
Hotel Ganga Lahiri is best to stay near Bharat Mata Temple in Haridwar

Some of the places where one can stay near Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar are :

  • Radisson Blu Haridwar: It is a five-star hotel for a luxurious stay. It is for both business and leisure for tourists and devotees alike. They provide spacious rooms, excellent food, high-speed wireless internet, etc.
  • Ganga Lahiri: It is a hotel that provides pick-up from the railway station by cycle rickshaw. The hotel has a peaceful and pleasing interior. Along with a great view of Ganga.
  • Golden Tulip Haridwar: It is a four-star hotel at a 7.6 km drive from Haridwar Railway Station. This hotel boasts of excellent service in food. As well as cleanliness and is good for the best stays.

What are some temples nearby?

Temples near Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar
Situated near Bharat Mata Temple, Har Ki Pauri is the best place to watch the evening Ganga Aarti

Some of the temples near Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar are:

  1. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar: Chandi Temple is at the Neel Parvat Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated in honour of Goddess Chandi. The temple is also one of the Panch Tirths present in Haridwar. The presiding deity, Chandi or Chandika is a form of Goddess Parvati. Also exists in close association with Mansa Devi.
  2. Har ki Pauri, Haridwar: Har ki Pauri is a religious bathing ghat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Known to be one of the most important religious places among the Hindus. It translates to ‘Steps of Shiva’ and is on the banks of Ganga. It is at the point where it leaves mountains and enters the plains.
  3. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar: Mansa Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mansa. The temple is on top of Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Also popular as ‘Bilwa Tirth’, this temple is among the panch tirth within Haridwar. Moreover, ‘Mansa’ means ‘wish’. It is a popular belief among the devotees that the goddess fulfils their wishes.
  4. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:  The Neelkanth Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The presiding deity of the temple is ‘Neelkanth’ who is a form of Lord Shiva and has a blue throat due to the effect of consuming poison.
  5. Maya Devi Temple Haridwar: It is dedicated to Goddess Maya in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The presiding deity, goddess Maya is an incarnation of goddess Shakti. Moreover, the temple is among the three Siddha Peethas. It is quite pious among the Hindu devotees.

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Bharat Mata Mandir –

Is there online booking available for Bharat Mata Mandir?

No, online booking is not available for the Mandir. The entry fee is free.

Where we can stay near Bharat Mata Mandir?

You can stay in Radisson Blu, Ganga Lahiri, and Golden Tulip Haridwar. All of these hotels are recommended for best stays.

What is the nearest airport to Bharat Mata Mandir?

Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun is the nearest airport. It is at a distance of 30 km from the temple.

How far is Haridwar from the temple?

Haridwar is around 7 km from the temple. You can easily get auto-rickshaws and cabs to take you to the temple from there.

What is the temperature in Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar?

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

Is photography allowed inside the Bharat Mata Temple?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the premises without any charges.

Is parking space available near Bharat Mata Temple?

Yes, parking is available near the temple.

Is there any lift facility available inside Bharat Mata temple?

Yes, there is a lift facility for visiting different floors inside the temple.

How to reach Bharat Temple from Har ki Pauri?

Har ki Pauri is around 9 minutes walking distance from Bharat Mata Mandir and can be reached by walking or auto-rickshaws.

Tungnath Temple

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

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

What is the history of Tungnath Temple?

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

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

What is the significance of Tungnath Temple?

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

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

What are the timings of Tungnath Temple?

Here are the timings of Tungnath Temple:

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

What are the festivals celebrated at Tungnath Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Tungnath Temple are:

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

How to reach Tungnath Temple?

Here’s how to reach Tungnath Temple:

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

Where to stay near Tungnath Temple?

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

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

What are the other Panch Kedar destinations?

The other Panch Kedar destinations are:

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

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

Madhyamaheshwar Temple

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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.