9917166032, 9760211117
Panch Kedar
The Panch Kedar temples, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, are steeped in legend and mythology. Their origin is intertwined with the epic Mahabharata and the Pandavas’ quest for redemption. Here’s the story behind these sacred shrines:
The Aftermath of War:
The Kurukshetra war, a devastating conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas, left the Pandavas victorious but burdened with guilt. They had killed their own relatives, teachers, and elders. Seeking absolution, they turned to Lord Krishna for guidance. He advised them to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, the ultimate destroyer and regenerator.
Shiva’s Disappearance:
Lord Shiva, however, was displeased with the Pandavas for the bloodshed, even though it was a righteous war. He decided to avoid them and took the form of a bull, Nandi, and hid in the Garhwal Himalayas. The Pandavas, determined to find him, searched relentlessly.
Bhima’s Discovery:
Bhima, the strongest of the Pandava brothers, while traversing the mountains near Guptakashi, spotted a unique bull grazing peacefully. Sensing a divine presence, he recognized it as Lord Shiva in disguise. Bhima, with his immense strength, managed to catch hold of the bull’s tail and hind legs.
The Divine Manifestation:
As Bhima held on, the bull-formed Shiva began to disappear into the ground. However, before vanishing completely, different parts of his body emerged at five different locations in the Kedar Khand region. These spots became the Panch Kedar:
Kedarnath
The Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, holds immense significance in Hinduism. While its exact origins remain shrouded in mystery, legends and historical accounts offer insights into its construction and evolution.
Mythological Origins:
According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas, heroes of the epic Mahabharata, built the Kedarnath Temple. After the Kurukshetra war, they sought atonement for the bloodshed. Guided by Lord Krishna, they embarked on a quest to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Lord Shiva, in the form of a bull, eluded the Pandavas. Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, finally managed to catch hold of the bull’s tail. As the bull disappeared into the ground, its hump emerged at Kedarnath. The Pandavas, recognizing the divine presence, built a temple at this spot to honor Lord Shiva.
Historical Evolution:
While the Pandavas are credited with the initial construction, the temple has undergone several renovations and reconstructions throughout its history. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but it is believed to be over 1000 years old.
Adi Shankaracharya, an 8th-century philosopher and theologian, is credited with reviving and restructuring the Kedarnath Temple in its present form. He is said to have visited Kedarnath and, recognizing its significance, undertook the task of rebuilding the temple.
Over the centuries, the temple faced numerous challenges, including natural disasters like earthquakes, landslides, and heavy snowfall. It was damaged and rebuilt several times, with each reconstruction preserving the original architectural style and sanctity of the shrine.
Architectural Marvel:
The Kedarnath Temple stands as an architectural marvel, built with massive stone slabs that interlock without any binding material. The temple’s structure includes a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) and a Mandap (main hall). The conical-shaped lingam inside the Garbhagriha is believed to be the hump of the bull, symbolizing Lord Shiva.
The temple’s resilience is remarkable, having withstood centuries of harsh weather conditions and natural calamities. Its sturdy construction and spiritual significance continue to attract devotees from all over the world.
Modern-Day Significance:
The Kedarnath Temple remains a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is part of the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to four holy shrines in Uttarakhand. The temple’s doors open for six months every year, from April to November. During the winter months, the deity is moved to Ukhimath for worship, as Kedarnath remains inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
The Kedarnath Temple stands as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of devotees. It is a symbol of resilience, spirituality, and the divine presence that pervades the Himalayas.
Tungnath
The story of Tungnath Temple’s creation is deeply intertwined with Hindu mythology and the epic Mahabharata. Here’s how it goes:
The Pandavas’ Penance:
After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas, though victorious, were burdened by the guilt of killing their relatives. They sought redemption and were advised by Lord Krishna to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. However, Shiva was displeased with the Pandavas due to the bloodshed.
Shiva’s Disguise:
To avoid the Pandavas, Lord Shiva transformed himself into a bull (Nandi) and hid in the Garhwal Himalayas. The Pandavas, determined to find him, searched relentlessly.
The Divine Revelation:
Bhima, the strongest Pandava, finally spotted the disguised Shiva near Guptakashi. He recognized the divine bull and tried to catch him. As Bhima grabbed the bull’s tail and hind legs, Shiva began to disappear into the ground.
The Emergence of Tungnath:
Before vanishing completely, different parts of Shiva’s body emerged at five different locations in the Kedar Khand region. These locations became the Panch Kedar. At Tungnath, the bahu (arms) of Lord Shiva appeared.
Temple Construction:
The Pandavas, overjoyed by this divine manifestation, built a temple at Tungnath to honor Lord Shiva and seek his forgiveness. They believed that by worshipping Shiva at this spot, they would be absolved of their sins.
Architectural Style:
Tungnath Temple, like other temples in the region, is built in the traditional North Indian style of architecture. It is constructed using stone and features intricate carvings. The temple has a simple yet elegant structure, with a towering peak and a sanctum sanctorum housing the Shiva lingam.
Significance:
Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world and is one of the Panch Kedars. It holds immense religious significance for Hindus. The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and attracts devotees from all over the world.
Preservation:
Over the centuries, Tungnath Temple has undergone renovations and repairs to maintain its structure and preserve its sanctity. The temple remains an important pilgrimage site and a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of devotees.
In essence, Tungnath Temple was built by the Pandavas as an act of penance and devotion to Lord Shiva. It stands as a symbol of their remorse, their faith, and their desire for redemption.
Rudranath
The story of the construction of the Rudranath Temple is deeply intertwined with Hindu mythology and the epic tale of the Mahabharata. It’s a story of redemption, devotion, and divine manifestation. Here’s how it goes:
The Pandavas’ Guilt:
After the devastating Kurukshetra war, the Pandava brothers emerged victorious but were burdened with immense guilt. They had killed their own relatives, elders, and teachers. Seeking atonement for their sins, they sought the guidance of Lord Krishna, who advised them to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Shiva’s Displeasure:
Lord Shiva, however, was displeased with the Pandavas due to the bloodshed and violence of the war. He decided to avoid them and took the form of a bull, Nandi, hiding in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The Search and Discovery:
The Pandavas, determined to find Shiva, searched relentlessly. Bhima, the strongest of the brothers, spotted a unique bull grazing near Guptakashi. Sensing a divine presence, he recognized it as Lord Shiva in disguise. Bhima managed to catch hold of the bull’s tail and hind legs.
The Divine Appearance:
As Bhima held on, the bull-formed Shiva began to disappear into the ground. Before vanishing completely, different parts of his body emerged at five different locations in the Kedar Khand region. These spots became the Panch Kedar. At Rudranath, Lord Shiva’s face manifested, signifying his divine wisdom and compassion.
The Temple’s Construction:
The Pandavas, overjoyed by this divine manifestation, built a temple at the spot where Shiva’s face appeared. This temple is known as the Rudranath Temple. They worshipped Lord Shiva with great devotion and performed elaborate rituals to seek his forgiveness. It is believed that their sincere prayers and penance pleased Lord Shiva, who finally blessed them and absolved them of their sins.
The Symbolism:
The Rudranath Temple stands as a symbol of the Pandavas’ redemption and their unwavering faith in Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture, though simple, reflects the spiritual significance of the place. The naturally formed Shivling, representing Shiva’s face, is the focal point of worship.
A Sacred Pilgrimage:
The Rudranath Temple is an integral part of the Panch Kedar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus. Devotees believe that visiting this temple with devotion and reverence can cleanse their souls and bring them closer to Lord Shiva. The temple’s location amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery adds to its spiritual aura, making it a truly divine experience for pilgrims.
The story of the Rudranath Temple is a reminder of the power of faith, the importance of seeking forgiveness, and the divine presence that pervades the universe. It continues to inspire and attract devotees from all over the world, who seek spiritual solace and blessings in the lap of the Himalayas.
Madhyamaheshwar
The Madhyamaheshwar Temple, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is one of the five revered shrines forming the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. While the temple’s origins are rooted in ancient mythology and are linked to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, the actual construction of the current structure likely occurred over time with various additions and renovations throughout the centuries.
Here’s a breakdown of what we know about the temple’s construction and history:
Ancient Origins and the Pandavas:
- The Legend: The story goes that the Pandavas, after the Kurukshetra war, sought atonement for killing their relatives. They were advised to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. Shiva, in the form of a bull, eluded them, but his different body parts manifested at five locations, which became the Panch Kedar. Madhyamaheshwar is where his navel (nabhi) is believed to have appeared.
- The Pandava Connection: It is believed that the Pandavas themselves built the original temples at these five locations, including Madhyamaheshwar. This would date the origins of the temple to thousands of years ago, though the structures we see today are likely not the original ones.
Construction and Architecture:
- Traditional Himalayan Style: The Madhyamaheshwar Temple, like other temples in the region, showcases traditional Himalayan architecture. It is constructed using local stones and wood, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
- The Lingam: The primary deity worshipped at Madhyamaheshwar is Lord Shiva, represented by a navel-shaped lingam (a phallic symbol representing Shiva’s energy). This lingam is housed within the main sanctum of the temple.
- Other Shrines: The temple complex also includes smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Goddess Parvati and Ardhanarishwar (a form of Shiva and Parvati combined).
- Renovations and Additions: Over the centuries, the Madhyamaheshwar Temple has likely undergone numerous renovations and additions. The remote location and harsh weather conditions would have necessitated periodic repairs and rebuilding. Local communities and rulers might have contributed to the temple’s upkeep and expansion.
Historical Evidence:
- No Definitive Records: Unfortunately, there are no definitive historical records that provide a precise timeline for the construction of the Madhyamaheshwar Temple. The region’s history is largely based on oral traditions, legends, and religious texts.
- Archaeological Clues: While no extensive archaeological excavations have been carried out at the site, the existing structure and its architectural elements might offer some clues about its age and evolution. However, these would require expert analysis and interpretation.
The Temple Today:
- A Sacred Pilgrimage Site: The Madhyamaheshwar Temple continues to be a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Devotees undertake the arduous trek to reach the temple and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
- Spiritual and Cultural Significance: The temple holds deep spiritual and cultural significance, not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the rich heritage and traditions of the Garhwal region.
In Conclusion:
While the exact details of the construction of the Madhyamaheshwar Temple remain shrouded in time, its origins are undoubtedly linked to the ancient legends of the Pandavas and the Mahabharata. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of devotees, and its construction likely reflects the architectural styles and traditions of the region, evolving over centuries with contributions from various communities and rulers.
Kalpeshwar
While the exact details of the original construction of the Kalpeshwar Temple are lost to time, its story is deeply intertwined with the legend of the Panch Kedar and the Pandavas. Here’s how the story goes:
The Pandavas’ Quest for Redemption:
After the epic Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas, though victorious, were burdened by the guilt of killing their relatives and elders. Seeking absolution, they were advised by Lord Krishna to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Shiva’s Disappearance and the Panch Kedar:
Lord Shiva, displeased with the war, tried to avoid the Pandavas by transforming into a bull (Nandi) and hiding in the Garhwal Himalayas. The Pandavas, determined to find him, searched relentlessly. Bhima, the strongest of the brothers, finally spotted Shiva in his bull form. As Bhima tried to catch him, Shiva began to disappear into the ground.
The Manifestation at Kalpeshwar:
Before vanishing completely, different parts of Shiva’s body emerged at five different locations in the Kedar Khand region. These became the Panch Kedar. At Kalpeshwar, it is believed that Shiva’s matted hair (jata) manifested.
The Temple’s Origin:
The Pandavas, overjoyed by these divine manifestations, built temples at each of these locations to honor Lord Shiva and seek his forgiveness. It is believed that the Kalpeshwar Temple was built by the Pandavas to mark the spot where Shiva’s hair had appeared.
Historical Influences:
While the Pandavas are credited with the initial construction, the temple has likely undergone renovations and expansions over the centuries. Some accounts suggest that Adi Shankaracharya, a prominent Hindu philosopher and theologian, played a role in reviving and structuring the temple, similar to his contributions to other significant shrines in the region.
The Temple Today:
The Kalpeshwar Temple, though smaller compared to some of the other Panch Kedar shrines, holds immense spiritual significance. It is unique for being the only Kedar temple that remains open throughout the year. The temple enshrines a naturally formed lingam, believed to represent Shiva’s matted hair.
Key Takeaways:
- The Kalpeshwar Temple’s origin is rooted in the legend of the Pandavas and their quest for redemption.
- It is believed to have been built by the Pandavas to mark the spot where Shiva’s hair manifested.
- The temple has likely seen renovations and expansions over time, with possible influences from figures like Adi Shankaracharya.
- It remains a significant pilgrimage site, especially for being accessible year-round.
While the exact construction details may be obscured by time, the Kalpeshwar Temple’s story remains an integral part of the Panch Kedar legend, symbolizing devotion, redemption, and the enduring presence of the divine.
Temples of Redemption:
The Pandavas, overjoyed by these divine manifestations, built temples at each of these locations to honor Lord Shiva and seek his forgiveness. They performed elaborate rituals and prayers, finally finding peace and absolution for their actions in the war.
A Sacred Pilgrimage:
The Panch Kedar Yatra, the pilgrimage to these five temples, is considered one of the most sacred journeys for Hindus. It is believed that by visiting these shrines with devotion and reverence, devotees can attain spiritual purification and liberation. The journey is not just a physical one but also a symbolic representation of the Pandavas’ quest for redemption and the power of faith and devotion.
The Legacy Continues:
The Panch Kedar temples stand as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of devotees. They continue to inspire and attract pilgrims from all over the world, who seek spiritual solace and blessings in the lap of the Himalayas. The story of the Panch Kedar serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness, the power of devotion, and the divine presence that pervades the universe.
Panch Kedar is a group of five Hindu temples located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are considered among the holiest pilgrimage sites in India. The five temples that make up Panch Kedar are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.
What are Panch Kedar
Panch Kedar is a group of five Hindu temples located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are considered among the holiest pilgrimage sites in India. The five temples that make up Panch Kedar are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.
Kedarnath is the most famous temple among the five and is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the Himalayas. Tungnath is the highest temple of Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet). Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar are also located in remote areas of the Himalayas and are visited by devotees during the pilgrimage season.
Panch Kedar yatra is a popular pilgrimage circuit among Hindus and is undertaken by thousands of devotees every year. The pilgrimage season usually starts in May and lasts until November, and the trek to these temples can be challenging and requires a certain level of physical fitness.
Major Sightseeing: –
- Devparyag (sangam/confluence)
- Rudraparyag (sangam/confluence)
- Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath.
- Ardhnareshwar temple & Manikarkund Temple.
TOUR ITINERARY
Day 01: Haridwar – Guptkashi
Your yatra is going to start from haridwar railway station. It will go to guptkashsi first.You’ll gonna see first, the great and famous temple of Kali maiyaan “DharaDevi temple” enroute which is in the middle of alaknanda river at kalyasour at the route of Srinagar. The destinations,Guptkashi,Vishwanath temple, Ardhnareshwar temple & Manikarkund where the two streams of river ganga
and yamuna are believed to meet. Check in to the hotel. Overnightstay at hotel.
Day 02: Guptkashi –Sersi/Phata-Sonprayag
After breakfast check out from hotel, then drop to Sonprayag (for trek route) trek starts from here to Kedarnath Ji. Start to ascend on trek route either by walk or pony/doli (at own cost). Helicopter service is also available for Kedarnath, so one can take helicopter to Kedarnath (at own cost). Tour members should carry personal medicines, heavy woolen, toiletries and clothes. After performing Pooja & Darshan of Shri Kedarnath Ji. Overnight stay at GMVN Dormitory at Kedarnath.
Day 03: Kedarnath – Sonprayag-Sersi/Phata
Morning Kedarnath Ji Darshan then move by walk trek 16Km down reach Sonparyag, then our Vehicle pick up you at Sonparyag, and then drive to Sersi/Phata, check in to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 04: Sersi/Phata- Ransi Village
After breakfast check out from hotel, then drive to the hotel to Ransi Village, en route you can see Ukhimath Omkareshwar Mandir,then drive to Ransi Village. Check in to the hotel rest and relaxes at hotel. Ransi Village starting point of Madmaheshwar Trek.
Day 05: Trek to Nanu via Gaundar
Ransi village is the starting point of Madmaheshwar Trek. So you have to wake up early in the morning and breakfast is ready to eat. after breakfast, you have to trek for Nanu via Gondar. The beauty of the area while your trekking made you speechless. After reaching to Gaundar you can have your dinner and take rest on your Tents / Homestay.Overnight stay at Tents / Homestay at Nanu.
Day 06: Trek to Madmaheshwar Temple
After morning breakfast check out from Tent/Homestay, and then trek to Madmaheshwar, on this trek you explore Buda Madmaheshwar. Dinner at Madmaheshwar and overnight stay at Tents/Homestay at Madmaheshwar.
Day 07: Trek down to Ransi Village – Chopta
After morning breakfast check out from Tent/Homestay and then trek down to Ransi Village (18K.M.) and after reaching Ransi Village you have Drive to Duggalbita Chopta. Dinner at Chpota and overnight stay at hotel.
Day 08: Chopta to Sagar Village (Trek to Tungnath-Chandrashila)
After morning breakfast check out from Hotel and then trek Tungnath and beyond to Charndrashila. After reaching the Temple take some blessing from God and trek back to chopta and drive to Sagar Village. Dinner at Sagar Village and overnight stay at hotel.
Day 09: Trek to Panar Bugyal
After morning breakfast check out from Hotel and then trek from Sagar Village to panar Bugyal which is almost 12 k.m. Dinner at Panar Bugyal and overnight stay at Tent/Homstay in Panar Bugyal.
Day 10: Panar Bugyal to Rudranath
After morning breakfast trek from Panar Bugyal to Rudranath Temple. After reaching Rudranath Temple take some blessing from God and the enjoy the environment and surroundings of the Temple or beautiful nature view of the area and return to Panar Bugyal. Dinner at Panar Bugyal and overnight stay at Tent/Homstay in Panar Bugyal.
Day 11: Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village – Helang
After morning breakfast check out from Tent/Homstay, and then trek down from Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village. After reaching Sagar village then drive to Helang. Dinner at Helang and overnight stay at hotel.
Day 12: Helang to Kalpeshwar – Rudraprayag
After morning breakfast check out from hotel and then drive to Kalpeshwar. After reaching Kalpeshwar (01km.trek) take some blessing God of Kalpeshwar Temple and return back, then drive to Rudraprayag. Dinner at Rudraprayag and overnight stay at hotel.
Day 13: Rudraprayag to Haridwar
After morning breakfast check out from hotel and then drive to Haridwar. En route you can see Devprayag and Rishikesh then drive to Haridwar, arrival at Haridwar, drop at Haridwar.
