Image Credits : Nitin Sharma
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Image Credits : Varun Shiv Kapur
Image Credits : PradeepBisht
Image Credits : Varun Shiv Kapur
Uttarakhand, the Himalayan state is known to be beautiful beyond measure. The state has great treasures that are waiting to be noticed. One such unique site far from touristy is the Jageshwar Dham. It is nestled by pine forests from every side. Jageshwar Dham or Jageshwar Temples is a group of more than 100 Hindu temples that date back to the 7th – 12th century. The temples along with their surroundings are striking to look at. The main highlights of the temple include carvings on the altars, stone sculptures, and stone lingams. If you are a religion or history enthusiast, then you will find the idols, carvings, and inscriptions at these temples to be a treasure.
A very famous temple, Jageshwar is famous for being the abode of 12 jyotirlingas. It is the eighth Jyotirling of the twelve and has awesome religious value as well. Jageshwar is one of the oldest Lord Shiva Temples in India and attracts thousands of devotees on Shivratri every year. Being sacred places for Lord Shiva’s worship, the temple is said to have tantric powers as well. This place is marked for pious rendition and a peaceful environment. The large chain of snow-covered mountains looms over the beautiful temple site. A great meditation site, many devotees and travelers are tempted to sit here for meditation.
The Jageshwar temple is constructed in a simple Nagara style. A large curvilinear spire shikhara is surrounded by a kalasha crown and an amalaka. Impressive stone images can be found around the altar. The entrance to a square sanctum sanctorum is through a nicely carved doorway. One can find an impressive image of Lord Ganesha. The jyotirlinga at Jageshwar temple is visited by countless devotees of Lord Shiva during Shivratri who come here to offer their prayers.
The main “Jageshwar Mahadev” Temple is devoted to Bal Jageshwar, the Child Shiva. According to the Legends, God Shiva came here to meditate. When women of this village heard about this, they left everything and went for his darshan. When men of that village heard this, they were angry and went to see who the sadhu is who fascinated their women. Due to this, Lord Shiva took a child’s avatar and that is why he has worshipped here in this child avatar only.
The famous Jageswar Monsoon Festival is held during the month of Shravan at Jageshwar and an annual Shivratri Mela also takes place in the spring season. It has booked an important place for itself in the Kumaon region’s calendar.