Deemed to be one of the oldest temples in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and located in the district of Uttarkashi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (not to be confused with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple of Varanasi) is highly revered by Hindu devotees. Seated peacefully on the banks of the holy river Bhagirathi, this sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva is primarily visited by people on their Char Dham Yatra. The defining feature of this temple is the mysterious Shiv Linga, which is not placed in the center but tilts surprisingly towards the south. There are numerous historical legends and mythological accounts related to the temple.
There is a detailed account in the Puranas explaining how the presiding deity assumed a southern direction. Sage Markandeya, cursed with a very short lifespan, was meditating at the very spot where the temple currently stands. When Yamraj came to take him to Yamlok, the sage tightly embraced Lord Vishwanath. Bholenath was impressed by the affection shown by the sage and sent Yamraj away, granting him a long life. However, Yamraj did not back down and threw his gauntlet at the sage to drag him away. But the sage once again clung to the Shiv Linga of Lord Vishwanath, and when Yamraj pulled the gauntlet with full force, it tilted the Shiv Linga towards the southern direction where the sage was holding it.
The original Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built by Sage Parshuram and was later reconstructed in 1857 by Maharani Khaneti, the wife of Sudarshan Shah. The most remarkable feature of the temple is that the altar of the presiding deity has remained untouched and is the same ancient one. It is believed, as mentioned in the Skanda Purana, that Lord Shiva will permanently settle here during the second half of the Kaliyuga, when the original Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi will be submerged underwater.
Another main attraction here is a Shakti Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, which is located right opposite the Vishwanath Temple. The defining feature of this temple is a giant 6-meter tall Trishul, which is believed to have been thrown by demons at Goddess Durga. This Trishul, over 1500 years old, is one of the oldest relics in Uttarakhand. Interestingly, the Trishul cannot be moved, even with the full weight of one’s body, but vibrates lightly if pressed with just one finger. Some things in this world remain unexplained.
The exact location of the temple is near NH 34, just a few kilometers from the Government Post Graduate College and Government Inter College. To reach the temple, follow the route leading to Uttarkashi. Rishikesh is the closest railway station, located about 167 km away. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is 171 km away via the Mussoorie road and 181 km via NH 34.
Uttarkashi experiences typical high-altitude climate conditions.
If you are an adventure seeker at heart, you must trek your way up to Dodital Lake, named after the Dodi fishes found only in this lake. This place is a true testament to untouched and pristine natural beauty, and the lake here is crystal clear. You can even indulge in fun fishing activities here after getting a permit. Although underrated, this activity with the family will be truly unique.
Once in Uttarkashi, the whole religious experience can get a bit overwhelming. To get away from the bustle, you can make your way to Nachiketa Tal, which is a mesmerizing trek of unadulterated scenic beauty. The lake itself has a tranquil and very positive effect once you finally reach your destination. The defining feature here is a small white hut that adds to the whole beauty.
This is probably on every beginner trekking enthusiast’s list. It is a must-visit choice for both winter and summer trekking journeys. The gently rolling Bugyals form the perfect ground for pitching a tent, camping out, and sleeping in the wilderness to get the authentic vibe of trekking in the Himalayas.
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