Baghnath Temple
Bageshwar, Uttarakhand
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About Baghnath Temple Bageshwar, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the Devbhoomi (Land of Gods) of Uttarakhand's Bageshwar district lies the legendary Baghnath Temple. Believed to be the origin of the district's name, this ancient site sits at the confluence of the Sarayu and Gomti rivers. Legends whisper of Lord Shiva himself appearing here as a tiger (Bagh), giving rise to the temple's initial name, Vyagreshwar (Lord of Tigers). Today, it stands as a grand monument, attracting devotees during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Shivaratri.
History
A journey through time reveals a fascinating past. Legends say the current structure was built by King Lakshmi Chand in the 15th-16th century, transforming a smaller temple into a majestic one. This sacred confluence, where the vanished Saraswati joins the Gomti and Sarayu, is believed to be the Tapobhumi (penance ground) of Rishi Markandeya. The Shiva Purana narrates a captivating tale. Sage Vashishta, attempting to bring the holy Sarayu from Lord Brahma, encountered Rishi Markandeya in deep meditation. Fearing disruption, Vashishta called upon Lord Shiva. The divine couple, Shiva and Parvati, appeared as a tiger, startling Markandeya. As he rushed to protect a cow, Lord Shiva revealed his true form. This marked the beginning of the Sarayu's flow and the worship of Lord Shiva at this sacred site.
Architecture
Baghnath Temple is a unique south-facing Shiva temple in North India, with Shiva and Shakti facing east. Built in the Nagara style, the 1602 structure by King Lakshmi Chand boasts a courtyard adorned with Devakuliyas (miniature temples) housing deities from the 7th to 16th centuries. The complex houses idols of various deities, including Lord Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, Vishnu, and Surya. A towering statue of Lord Shiva stands tall within the premises.
Significance
For devotees, Baghnath Temple holds immense significance. They believe Lord Shiva's presence lingers within the temple walls. A visit is said to wash away sorrows, and women seeking motherhood often come here for blessings.
Baghnath Temple Timings
Morning Aarti Timings
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMEvening Aarti Timings
7:00 PM - 8:00 PMOfferings
Devotees appease Lord Shiva with offerings of bel leaves, water, milk, kumkum, sandalwood, fruits, flowers, sweets, kheer, and khichdi.
Travel
Airplane
The nearest airport to Baghnath Temple is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 297 kilometres away. Taxi and bus services are available from the airport to the temple.
Train
The nearest railway station to reach Baghnath Temple is Kathgodam, which is about 151 kilometres away. Kathgodam is well connected by train to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From the station, taxi and bus services are available to reach the temple.
Bus
To reach Baghnath in Bageshwar district, you can take a bus from cities like Delhi or other major cities to Almora, Nainital, or Haldwani in Uttarakhand. After reaching these places, you can easily find a bus or taxi to reach Bageshwar district. You can also reach the temple by your own means of transportation.
