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New Delhi: Uttarakhand is a beautiful state where the majestic Himalayas stand tall. Here, you can not only enjoy many enchanting views of landscapes but also embark on a spiritual journey as the state is home to the five highest Shiva temples, or the Panch Kedar temples, namely Kedarnath, Kalpeshwar, Madhyamaheshwar, Rudranath, and Tungnath. So, it’s not wrong to call it Devbhoomi or Land of the Gods. As per the Hindu scriptures, these temples are connected to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
After the Kurukshetra war, it is believed that the Paanch Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s forgiveness. Instead, he turned into a bull, and his body parts reappeared in different locations across the Garhwal Himalayas. Every place where he reappeared represents a part of Shiva’s divine form and is known as the Panch Kedar. Only people with divine energies can reach these temples.
The 5 Shiva temples are not only spiritually important but also a natural marvel with enchanting views of nature. Let’s have a look.
1. Kalpeshwar (Hair of Shiva)
The great thing about Kalpeshwar temple is that devotees or tourists can visit it throughout the year. Nestled amidst the Urgam Valley of Chamoli district at 2,200 metres, the temple is surrounded by terraced fields and dense forests. This temple is known for being the place where Lord Shiva’s matted hair, or jata, is worshipped.
How to reach
2. Kedarnath (Hump of Shiva)
Kedarnath temple, located at a height of 3,583 metres, is one of the prominent temples among the Panch Kedar and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Legends say Lord Shiva appeared here in the form of a bull. That is the reason it is also popular as the Hump of Shiva, which is now worshipped as a Shiva Linga. May to October is the best time to visit the temple, and avoid heavy snowfall.
How to reach
3. Madhyamaheshwar (Navel of Shiva)
Madhyamaheshwar, situated at an elevation of 3,497 metres, is a North Indian architectural marvel. The Shiva Linga here appears like a navel. Visitors can enjoy gorgeous views of peaks like Chaukhamba and Kedarnath.
How to reach
4. Rudranath (Face Appearing)
A visitor can view dense forests and alpine meadows while on the way to the Rudranath temple, which is situated at around 3,550 meters. A Shiva Linga is placed inside the temple, and it is adorned by many sacred ponds like Surya Kund and Chandra Kund. The best time to visit this temple is between June to September.
How to reach
5. Tungnath (Arms of Shiva)
Tungnath temple stands tall at an altitude of 3,680 metres. Considered the highest Shiva Temple in the world, it is believed that Tungnath is constructed on the spot where the Arms of Shiva appeared. Nearby tourist attraction is Chandrashila Peak, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The best time to visit the temple is from May to November.
How to reach
Visiting the sacred Paanch Kedar is beyond spiritually enriching experience. The stunning views of the great Himalayas, landscape and nature offer immense peace. It is also a test of your patience and endurance. Surely, it’s a must-visit place of experience.
