Uttarakhand Temples

Rudraprayag

August 9, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Other Temples, Panch Prayag

Rudraprayag is the fourth among the five confluences of river Alaknanda (Panch Prayag). It observes the confluence of the river Alaknanda and Mandakini. The place maps in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Moreover, the place is elevated at a height of 895 metres.

The place of holy confluence flaunts its temples like Kedarnath Temple, Omkareshwara Shiva temple, Madmaheshwara Temple and Trijuginarayan temple.

Koteshwar Mahadev is a cave like temple present at a distance of 3 km from the fourth Prayag. Here, Lord Shiva once meditated on his way to Kedarnath.

Originating from Kedarnath, Holy Mandakini is the major river of the area. This place is also a famous pilgrimage destination on the route of the four holy Dham pilgrimage.

Chronicles of Rudraprayag

The first legend talks about the creation of Rudraprayag. The tale dots a mythological king named Putraka. Putraka is believed to have brought Rudraprayag to life using magic for his beloved wife Patali. Hence, the place was earlier known as Pataligram, in which ‘Gram’ stood for the village. Further, the city was Kedarnath ‘Patliputra‘ in the honour of Patali’s son.

There are also stories revolving around Ajatshatru, the king of Magadh. Beliefs are that around 490 BC Ajatshatru took up Rudrapur as his capital instead of Rajgarh. Apparently, he also fortified this place for the same. Moreover, Gautam Buddha also graced the place during his nearing time.

Chronicles of Rudraprayag — Sage Narada worshipped Lord Vishnu at Rudraprayag after which Lord Vishnu appeared before him.

Kedarkhand states that sage Narada worshipped Lord Shiva on one foot at this holy confluence. After which Lord Shiva appeared before him and gave him a Harp.

Essence of the Confluence

Rudraprayag is known after the Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva. There also stands a temple of Rudranath by the banks of the holy confluence. Also, the place is home to various Shiv temples other than Rudranath.

Essence of Rudraprayag — Rudraprayag is known after the Rudra form of Lord Shiva.

Rudraprayag also happens to be the spot where Pandavas came for repentance after killing their brothers in the battle of Mahabharat. Hereafter, they left for heaven.

The significance of Rudraprayag is that the name of this confluence has been derived from ‘Rudra‘, which is a form of Lord Shiva. Hence, one can spot many Shiva temples in the vicinity of Rudraprayag. As per epics, Lord Shiva appeared here to bless sage Narad.

Devotees often refer to the place as ‘Abode of the Gods’ because of its beauty and serenity. Moreover, Agastamuni is present at a distance of 18 km from Rudraprayag. Rishi Agastya meditated at Agastamuni for many years which added up religious significance to the place.

Ways to Reach Rudraprayag

Here’s how to reach Rudraprayag:

Air: The nearest airport to the holy confluence is Jolly Grant Airport. It stands 155.9 km away from Rudraprayag.
Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh railway station. It is at a distance of 140 km from the holy confluence.
Road: Rudraprayag is present on NH58. Hence, buses going from New Delhi to Badrinath, via Haridwar and Rishikesh pass through Rudraprayag.

Stays nearby Rudraprayag

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

Chopta Meadows: The place has got an ideal location along with a package of all the amenities to offer to its guests. Moreover, it’s also budget-friendly.
V Resorts Pauri: This resort is a perfect retreat for the devotees on the Char Dham Yatra. It’s available with all the modern amenities and is light on the guest’s budget.
Riverside Resorts: This place has got beautiful interiors and the perfect hilltop view. Also, guests can avail all the luxuries here.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

Vishnuprayag: Present 1372 metres above sea level, this is the first Prayag, as per the route of Alaknanda. It is 123.4 km away from Rudraprayag.
Nandaprayag: Mythology predicts the place to have been the capital of Yadu Kingdom in ancient times. It is the second confluence following Vishnuprayag. It is at a distance of 53.3 km from Rudraprayag.
Karnaprayag: This place observes the confluence of river Alaknanda and Pindar, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is third of the Panch Prayag. It is 33.2 km away from the fourth Prayag.
Devprayag: Placed at the last confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. This is the spot from where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow as Ganga or Ganges. It is at a distance of 67.3 km from Rudraprayag.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand

Frequently Asked Questions About Rudraprayag

Which rivers meet at the fourth Prayag?

Rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini meet at this place.

What is the best time to visit Rudraprayag?

The best time to visit this place is from March to October.

How much time is required to see around the place?

One might need at least 2-3 days to see around this place.

Read about Panch Prayag in Panch Prayag- Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand.

Maya Devi Temple Haridwar Guide – Timings, Poojas and History

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

Maya Devi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Maya in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Goddess Maya is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and is the Adhisthatri of the city. The temple is one among the three prominent Siddha Peetha in Haridwar. The Chandi Devi temple and the Mansa Devi temple being the other two of the trio.

It is a popular belief that the goddesses of the Siddha Peethas fulfil the desires of her sincere devotees. This temple is also among the Char Dham Yatra package within Uttarakhand.

Planning to visit this temple? Have a look at our Char Dham Yatra Tour Package.

Maya Devi Temple – Facts

Deity	Goddess Maya (Goddess Shakti)
Location	Haridwar, Uttrakhand
Significance	Siddha Peetha
Tours	Char Dham Yatra
Darshan Timings	6:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time to Visit	September to April
Festivals	Navratri

Maya Devi Temple, Haridwar.

What are the timings of Maya Devi Temple?

The temple opens at 6:00 am and closes at 8:00 pm.

Timings	From	To
Morning	6 AM	12 PM
Evening	2 PM	8 PM

What is the significance of the Maya Devi Temple?

The significance of Maya Devi Temple relates to the main deity, Goddess Maya, who has three heads and four arms. The inner shrine of the temple consists of the idols of the three forms of Goddess Shakti. Goddess Maya commands attention in the centre, with Kali Mata on her left and Kamakhya on her right. A pradakshina path around the sanctum sanatorium of the temple has illustrations of the ten Dash Mahavidayas. This makes this shakti peetha an important pilgrimage destination in Shaktism.

What is the history of Maya Devi Temple?

Shiva Tandava — Shiva performed the cosmic dance of destruction after Sati’s death.

According to history, Haridwar was formerly called ‘Mayapuri,’ named after the city’s guardian deity, Goddess Maya. The Maya Devi Temple is one of the three ancient temples which dates back to the eleventh century. The Narayana-Shila and the Bhairav temple are among the other two undamaged temples of the same era.

Sati was an incarnation of Goddess Adishakti, born as a blessing to Prajapati Daksha and Queen Prasuti. Goddess Shakti took birth as human to reunite with her consort, Lord Shiva.

Coming of age, Sati was mesmerised by Lord Shiva and wished to marry him. Daksha, however, was enraged by Shiva as he cut off one of Lord Bramha‘s five heads. As a bid to avenge his father’s beheading, Daksha refused to give Sati’s hand to Shiva for marriage. Eventually giving in to wishes of the Gods, Sati and Shiva were wed.

A yajna, organized by Daksha, soon after the wedding saw him invite all the gods and goddesses with an exception of Sati and Shiva. Since Sati was Daksha’s daughter, she did not feel the need for seeking an invitation. She attended the yajna despite Shiva’s warnings.

The yajna saw Daksha’s insolence when he disrespected Lord Shiva. Humiliated and unable to hear impolite remarks against her husband, Sati immolated herself. Goddess Shakti left the body.

Shiva, anguished, carried Sati’s charred body in his arms and performed Tandava. Fearing destruction due to Shiva’s cosmic dance, the gods sought help from Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu sent his Sudharshan Chakra which cut Sati’s body into 52 parts which fell on earth.

The places where the goddess’s remains fell are called shakti peethas. The Maya Devi Temple is one of the 52 shakti peethas and it is believed to be the site where the goddess’s heart and navel fell.

What are the festivals celebrated at Maya Devi Temple?

A major festival celebrated in the temple is Navratri.

Navratri or Durga Puja: It is a famous festival, celebrated as a symbol of victory of good over evil. As per legend, Goddess Durga defeated the demon king Mahishasura to save the world and restore Dharma. Navratri is celebrated across India for nine days. Celebrations in the temple include stage decorations, recital of the legend, enacting of the story, and chanting of the scriptures of Hinduism.

How to reach Maya Devi Temple?

Here’s how to reach Maya Devi Temple Haridwar:

Air: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, at a distance of 35 km from the temple.
Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar, at a distance of 0.5 km from the temple.
Road: Buses for Haridwar are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi.

Adhisthatri of Mayapuri — Goddess Maya is the presiding deity of the city of Haridwar.

Where to stay near Maya Devi Temple?

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

Radisson Blu Haridwar: It is a five-star hotel for a luxurious stay. It provides spacious rooms, excellent food, high speed wireless internet, a steam room and a gym. It is at a distance of 13 km from Mansa Devi Temple.
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.
Golden Tulip Haridwar: It is a four-star hotel at a 7.6 km drive from Haridwar Railway Station. This hotel boasts off excellent service in food as well as cleanliness. Moreover, guests can also avail massage therapies at the in-house massage centre.

What are some temples near Maya Devi Temple?

Some of the temples near Maya Devi Temple Haridwar are:

Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar: Present atop the neel parvat in Haridwar, this temple is in the honour of Goddess Chandi. The temple is also 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.
Har ki pauri, Haridwar: Har ki pauri is a religious bathing ghat in Haridwar. Literally translating to ‘Steps of Shiva’, it is on the banks of Ganga, at the point where it leaves mountains and enters the plains. It is said that a dip in the Ganges at Har ki pauri absolves one of his/ her sins.
Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar: Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple for goddess Mansa, on top of Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar. Also, popular as ‘Bilwa Teerth’, this temple is among the panch teerth within Haridwar. ‘Mansa’ means ‘wish’ and it is a popular belief among 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 a form of Lord Shiva and has a blue throat due to effect of consuming poison. It also contains various scriptures depicting ‘Samudramanthan’ by Devas and Asuras, which is mythologically relevant to the temple.
Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar: It is a temple dedicated to ‘Bharat Mata’ or ‘Mother India’. The temple is present alongside Samanvay Ashram on the banks of Ganga. It is 8 storeys tall, with each storey depicting an era in Indian history, from the days of Ramayana until Indian Independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Maya Devi Temple open throughout the year?

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

What is the entry fees?

The entry to the Maya Devi Temple is free.

When is the best time of the year to visit the Maya Devi Temple?

Although you can visit the temple any time of the year, ideally, February, March, August, September, and October are the best times to visit the Maya Devi Temple.

Is Mansa Devi Temple close to Maya Devi Temple?

Mansa Devi Temple is 2.4 km from the Maya Devi Temple and it takes approximately 11 minutes to travel via Haridwar Industrial Area.

Is Chandi Devi Temple close to Maya Devi Temple?

Chandi Devi Temple is 2.4 km from the Maya Devi Temple and it takes approximately 6 minutes to cover the said distance via NH34.

When is the Maya Devi Temple most crowded?

Maya Devi Temple is the most crowded during the Navratri season.

What is the weather like during summers?

The temperature during summers is mild and ranges from 35º C to 45º C. It is advisable to carry cotton clothing in summers.

What are winters like in Haridwar?

Weather in winter is very unpredictable. The temperature varies from 10º C to 30º C. It is therefore advised to carry warm, woolen clothing as winters can get very cold here.

Which is the nearest airport to Haridwar?

The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Haridwar. It is 36 km away.

Which is the nearest railway station to Haridwar?

The Haridwar railway station is the closest to the main city. The railway station is just 600 meters away from the Maya Devi Temple and takes only 3 minutes to travel.

If you have any questions about the Maya Devi Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

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.