Gopinath Temple in Chamoli, Uttarakhand
Gopinath Temples is located in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva the temple is rooted in the unique tale of Kamdeva facing Lord Shiva’s wrath.
Budha Kedar Temple in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
Budha Kedar is known as the Fifth Teerth of Uttarakhand. Located in Tehri Uttarakhand, Budha Kedar is dedicated to Lord Shiva who appeared here as an old man.
Story of Budha Kedar Temple in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
Budha Kedar Temple is located in Uttarakhand’s Tehri district, approximately 60 kilometers from the main town. This sacred site is located at the confluence of the Ram Ganga and Bal Ganga rivers, a place that holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva.
The temple's origins are deeply rooted in the Dwapar Yuga, the era of the Mahabharata. After their victory in the war of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas renounced their kingdom and embarked on a spiritual journey towards the Himalayas in search of the path to Swarga (heaven). It is believed that during this pilgrimage, they arrived at the confluence of these sacred rivers.
Here, Lord Shiva appeared to them in the guise of an old Brahmin. After granting them his divine vision, Shiva transformed into a Shila (stone) and disappeared into the earth. This place, blessed by Shiva's presence, became known as Budha Kedar, named after the aged form he took during the encounter.
The Sacred Shivling at Budha Kedar
One of the most unique aspects of Budha Kedar Temple is its Shivling. Unlike most temples, the Shivling here bears the divine images of five Pandavas, Draupadi, and even Lord Ganesha, intricately carved on its surface. These engravings serve as a reminder of the sacred connection between the Pandavas and this holy site.
The current structure of the temple is said to have been established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya.
How to Reach Budha Kedar
The journey to Budha Kedar takes you through the beautiful and winding roads of Tehri, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape. The temple is located at a distance of around 60 km from Tehri, and one can reach it via road by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus. For those traveling from Rishikesh, the distance is approximately 120 km. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, and the closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
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