Baghnath Temple Bageshwar

Visit Baghnath Temple in Bageshwar – a sacred abode of Lord Shiva nestled in the Himalayan foothills, known for its ancient stone carvings, divine aura, and spiritual importance in Hindu mythology.

About Baghnath Temple Bageshwar

Baghnath Temple, located in the picturesque town of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand, is a renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Believed to have been built around the 7th century and later renovated by the Chand rulers, this temple stands majestically at the confluence of the sacred Saryu and Gomati rivers. The temple’s architecture is a fine example of ancient Kumaoni stone craftsmanship, featuring detailed carvings and an aura of divine serenity. Every year, the temple becomes a focal point during the Shivratri Mela, attracting thousands of devotees from across India. The name Baghnath, meaning “Tiger Lord,” is associated with a local legend where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a tiger. The spiritual charm, coupled with the scenic Himalayan backdrop, makes Baghnath Temple not just a pilgrimage site but also a cultural and architectural gem of Uttarakhand.

1.Baghnath Temple 2.Baghnath Temple History 3.Baghnath Temple Significance 4.Architectural Highlights 5. Baghnath Temple Timings 6. Offerings 7.How to Reach Baghnath Temple

Baghnath Temple

Baghnath Temple is a revered Shiva temple located in the holy town of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand, India. Nestled at the confluence of the Sarayu and Gomti rivers, this ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site and holds immense mythological and historical value. The name “Bageshwar” itself is believed to have been derived from this temple.

Baghnath Temple History

The current structure of the Baghnath Temple was built in the 15th–16th century by King Lakshmi Chand of the Chand dynasty. Originally a small shrine, it was later developed into a grand temple complex. The temple stands on a sacred land known as the Tapobhumi of Rishi Markandeya, a sage who performed deep penance here. According to Shiva Purana, Sage Vashishta was attempting to bring the river Sarayu from Lord Brahma’s Kamandal to Earth. Near the Brahmkapali stone, Sage Markandeya was meditating. To prevent any disturbance, Sage Vashishta prayed to Lord Shiva, who appeared with Goddess Parvati in the form of a tiger. When Markandeya saw the tiger approaching a cow, he rushed to save it. At that moment, Shiva and Parvati revealed their divine form. The waters of Sarayu began to flow freely, and the temple became a site of worship.

Baghnath Temple Significance

Devotees believe that Lord Shiva resides in the temple in the form of a tiger. It is also believed that worshipping here relieves one from sorrows and fulfills desires, especially for couples seeking children.

Architectural Highlights

The Baghnath Temple is a south-facing structure, which is rare in North India. The main deities, Shiva and Parvati, are placed as self-manifested idols amidst flowing water. The temple follows the Nagara style of architecture and features intricate stone carvings. Surrounding the main shrine are several smaller temples (Devakuliyas) housing idols from the 7th to 16th centuries, including Maheshwar, Uma, Parvati, Mahishasura Mardini, Trimurti, Ganesh, Vishnu, and Surya.

Baghnath Temple Timings

Daily Opening Hours: 06:00 AM – 09:00 PM

Offerings

Devotees offer bel leaves, milk, pure water, sandalwood, kumkum, fruits, sweets, kheer, and khichdi to Lord Shiva.

How to Reach Baghnath Temple

Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (Approx. 297 km). Taxis and buses are available from the airport.

Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (Approx. 151 km), connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

By Road: You can travel via Almora, Haldwani, or Nainital. Regular buses and taxis are available to Bageshwar. The temple is accessible by private vehicles as well.