The brilliant temple complex of Baijnath is situated in the town of Baijnath and displays a beautiful collection of 18 Hindu shrines. Situated in the district of Bageshwar, the complex is perched at an elevation of 1,125 meters above sea level, along the holy Gomti River. The significance of the temples lies in the fact that it is one of those rare temples where Parvati is depicted together with Lord Shiva. The intricate architecture represents the typical 9th-century styles of the Katyuri rulers. If you want to truly have an experience here, then visiting the temple during the holy eve of Shivratri or Makar Sankranti is advised.
When the Katyuri rulers had shifted their capitals from Joshimath to Kartikeyapura, they were followed by a huge crowd of followers from the Shaiva sects, including communities like Vairagi, Jangam, Sanyasi, etc. The king wanted to make them feel at home and properly rehabilitated them in a good and welcoming environment. This is why the temple complex was created, and numerous inscriptions dating back to as early as 1202 AD have been found within the temple compound. Later, the Chand dynasty also worked hard to maintain and renovate it, preserving the legacy. You will be able to see a destroyed Shikara on the main shrine of the temple, which was the result of a plunder of the temple by the Rohillas. The interesting history makes it a place of immense historical significance.
The Baijnath temple complex is considered to hold immense significance for the Shaivite community for being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas that span all over the country. The Shiv Lingas present inside the temple are said to have formed naturally from the earth. The idol inside the shrine is very unique since it is carved out of black stone, along with the carvings of 32 other deities done using the same variety of stone. Some of the folklore about the temple depicts that it was once built by a Brahmin woman who had dedicated it to Lord Shiva, while other speculations about the place say that Lord Shiva had married Goddess Parvati at the confluence of Garur Ganga and Gomti, where the temple complex now stands.
Located just opposite the main entrance of the temple complex is a small garden-like feature that contains a massive stone weighing around 3 tons at the center. This unique-looking stone is called ‘Bhim Pathar,’ which, according to local stories, was once carried by the strongest Pandava, Bhim, hence the name. The locals believe that only Bhim has the capacity to lift the stone by himself, so this place witnesses many people trying to lift the rock on their own.
Being situated at a height, the best time to visit would be during the summer months of April to June, making it an ideal summer getaway in the hills. The temperature remains at a pleasant degree, allowing you to go out and explore nature more. You must avoid traveling in the hills during the monsoon season, as this could cause a hindrance to your plans. If you are looking for a quieter getaway and an offbeat experience, then visiting this place during the winter months is a great option. If you are lucky, you may even get to experience a snow-white winter.
Being situated at a height, the best time to visit would be during the summer months of April to June, making it an ideal summer getaway in the hills. The temperature remains at a pleasant degree, allowing you to go out and explore nature more. You must avoid traveling in the hills during the monsoon season, as this could cause a hindrance to your plans. If you are looking for a quieter getaway and an offbeat experience, then visiting this place during the winter months is a great option. If you are lucky, you may even get to experience a snow-white winter.
The town of Baijnath is a very tiny hamlet with a very limited number of stay options available. Do not expect any luxurious villas here, as the accommodation facilities are primarily made for the pilgrim folks who form the majority of the temple’s visitors. You will be able to find some decent hotels at budget prices, or you can even opt for a stay at the KMVN guesthouse that comes with several other facilities at the cheapest rates.
However, remember that people mostly visit Baijnath as part of their excursion from Kausani, so you can also choose to stay there, as there are many more varieties of hotels and accommodation options available. When it comes to food, you will be able to get basic North Indian and Chinese food items at the Dhabas or roadside restaurants or cafes here. You can even try the local Pahadi cuisines, which are very delicious as well.
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