Bhavreshwar Dham Shiva Temple, Lucknow
Bhavreshwar Dham, located 30 km from Lucknow in Nigohan, is an ancient Shiva templewhere swarms of bees protected the Shivling from Aurangzeb’s arm
Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi, Uttrakhand
Guptkashi Vishwanath Temple is in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand and here Lord Shiva went into hiding from the Pandavas.
Nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Guptkashi is a serene town that holds immense religious and mythological significance. At its heart lies the Guptkashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, marking a pivotal chapter in Hindu mythology.
According to tha legends, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas were burdened with the sin of killing their kin in battle. Seeking absolution, Lord Krishna advised them to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva. The Pandavas began their search in Kashi (Varanasi), but Lord Shiva, angered by the war and unwilling to meet them, left Kashi and went into hiding in Guptkashi.
However, the Pandavas continued their pursuit and eventually arrived in Guptkashi. Realizing that they were near, Lord Shiva vanished (became 'Gupt'), and the town has since been known as Guptkashi, meaning 'Hidden Kashi'. Later, a temple was built in honor of Lord Shiva, known as the Guptkashi Vishwanath Temple.
Manikarnika Kund and the Hidden Rivers
One of the most fascinating aspects of Guptkashi is the Manikarnika Kund, where two mystical rivers—Gupt Ganga and Gupt Yamuna—emerge from the ground and merge. This rare natural phenomenon adds to the town’s divine aura.
Evening Aarti and Rituals
A unique tradition followed at Guptkashi Vishwanath Temple is the offering of oil during the evening aarti. Devotees bring oil as an offering, symbolizing their devotion to Shiva’s eternal flame.
Vishwanath Temple Arti Timings are 6:00 am and &:00 pm
How to Reach Guptkashi
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 190 km from Guptkashi.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 168 km away.
By Road: Guptkashi is well connected by road with major Uttarakhand cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
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