Uttarakhand Temples

Har Ki Pauri

September 23, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples

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

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

What is the history of Har ki pauri?

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

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

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

What is the significance of Har ki pauri?

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

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

What are the timings of Har ki pauri?

Here are the timings of Har ki Pauri in Haridwar:

Timings	From	To
Morning Aarti	5:45 AM	6:15 AM
Evening Aarti	6 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.

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.

Kalpeshwar Temple

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

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

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

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

What is the history of Kalpeshwar Temple?

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

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

What is the significance of Kalpeshwar Temple?

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

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

What are the timings of Kalpeshwar Temple?

Here are the timings of Kalpeshwar Temple:

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

What are the festivals celebrated at Kalpeshwar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kalpeshwar Temple are:

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

How to reach Kalpeshwar Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kalpeshwar Temple:

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

Where to stay near Kalpeshwar Temple?

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

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

What are the other Panch Kedar temples?

The other Panch Kedar temples are:

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

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

Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi

March 11, 2020, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Shiva Temples

Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi shares the same name with the one in Varanasi, however, it stands in the Guptakashi town of Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand. Further, the temple is dedicated to one of Lord Shiva’s avatar, Lord Vishwanath, meaning the ‘Lord of Universe’.

The architecture of the temple closely resembles the popular Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi.

Moreover, the word ‘Guptkashi’ has historical relevances in the epic of Mahabharata. However, the religious significance of Guptkashi is equated next to that of Varanasi which is referred to as the most pious of all Hindu pilgrimage sites.

Another temple of utmost importance present in the town is Ardhnareshwara temple. Further, this temple contains a half-man and half-woman form of Shiva-Parvati. Moreover, this temple is also a significant part of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand. Take this divine yatra now.

Introduction of Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi — Ardhnareshwara Temple is present in Guptkashi and houses an idol of Lord Shiva in half-man and half-women form.

Vishwanath Temple Guptkashu – Facts

Temple Timings	5 am – 12 pm 2 pm – 9 pm
Time required for Darshan	30 minutes
Entry Fee	No Fee
Best Time To Visit	March – October
Nearest Airport	Jolly Grant Airport
Location	Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
Diety	Lord Shiva

What are the timings of Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi?

Here are the timings of Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi:

Timings	From	To
Morning	5 am	12 pm
Evening	2 pm	9 pm

What is the significance of Guptakshi’s Vishwanath Temple?

Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi holds significance as the place where Lord Shiva put out the matrimonial proposal before Goddess Parvati. However, the wedding ceremony was organised at Triyuginarayan Temple. Moreover, this temple draws similarities in structure with other temples in Uttarakhand, such as the Kedarnath temple.

This beautiful site is made of stone and has a high tower above the sanctum. Furthermore, the main gate of the temple portrays an image of ‘Bhairav’, which is a form of Lord Shiva. On the other hand, the walls have lotus images. Also, the entrance has two ‘dwarpalakas’ or entrance-guards inscribed on it.

The temple complex has a pond called Manikarnika Kund where the Shivlingam is bathed by two river springs that represent rivers namely, Yamuna and Ganga.

What is the history of Guptkashi’s Vishwanath Temple?

Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi has a fascinating relevance with the Pandavas of Mahabharat. Legends state that after the Kurukshetra war, Pandavas desired to get rid of the sins they committed during the war. Hence, they wished to meet Lord Shiva to absolve them of their sins, however, Lord Shiva did not wish to have a meeting with them.

So, Lord Shiva took the form of a bull (Nandi) and appeared before the Pandavas. However, the Pandavas recognised him and began to follow Nandi until they reached a place where Lord Shiva vanished in a cave. Hence, this place later became popular as ‘Guptkashi’.

History of Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi — Aurangzeb was the mughal emporer who destroyed Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi hence the idol was shifted to Guptkashi.

Also, when the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb turned the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi into rags, the priests shifted the main idol of the temple to Guptkashi in order to keep it safe.

What are the festivals celebrated at Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi?

Mahashivratri: This festival is a celebration of Lord Shiva. Devotees signify Shiva as the Adi guru who is the source of the Yogi tradition. On this day, devotees pay a visit to Shiva temples, make offerings, keep fasts and offer milk to the Shivlingam.
Dussehra: This Hindu festival signifies the victory of good over evil. Dussehra recounts the day when Lord Rama killed Ravana and established peace and prosperity. As a ritual, devotees also burn an effigy of Ravana and put diyas around their houses.

How to reach Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi?

Here’s how to reach Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi:

Air: The nearest airport to the temple is Jolly Grant Airport. It is 198 km away from Guptakshi.
Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. It is at a distance of 192 km from Guptakshi.
Road: Buses to Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere gate. From there, one can avail state transport buses to Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi.

Where to stay near the Temple?

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

Cedar Valley Resorts: The resort has 16 rooms, all of which are packed with a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Moreover, the resort also has a restaurant that offers a variety of cuisines for the guests.
Chopta Meadows Camps: The property provides 8 lodgings, each equipped with a desk as well as a private bathroom. Chopta Meadows Camp’s restaurant offers 3-time meals and is budget-friendly.
Himalayan Comforts: The resort has 17 rooms that have all the essentials to ensure an enjoyable stay. The resort also offers a restaurant facility. Moreover, the place also provides easy access to Kalimath.

What are some temples near Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi?

Some of the temples near Vishwanath Temple Guptkashi are:

Dhari Devi Temple: This temple is present at the banks of river Alaknanda in Uttarakhand. It is home to the upper half of the idol of Goddess Dhari, while the lower half is in Kalimath. Moreover, the devotees look upon the Goddes as the guardian of Uttarakhand.
Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath: Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath, or Omkareshwar Pith is an ancient Hindu temple present in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It houses the deities Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar during winters (November- April).
Triyuginarayan Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is present in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. This is the venue of marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Moreover, the temple is 3.1 miles away from Sonprayag, which is the confluence of river Mandakini and Songanga.

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

Yogadhyan Badri – Sapta Badri

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

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

Know more about – Sapta Badri

Yogadhyan Badri – Facts

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

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

What are the timings of Yogadhyan Badri?

Here are the timings of the temple:

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

What is the significance of Yogadhyan Badri?

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

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

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

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

What is the history of Yogadhyan Badri?

The History of Yogadhyan states that:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are the festivals celebrated at Yogadhyan Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Yogadhyan Badri are:

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

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

How to reach Yogadhyan Badri?

Here’s how to reach Yogadhyan Badri:

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

Where to stay near Yogadhyan Badri?

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

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