Location : Island Of Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Deity Worshipped: Linga Of Sri Ranganatha
Tradition: A Pilgrimage To Kashi Is Not Considered Complete Without A Pilgrimage To Rameshwaram
Significance: One Of The 12 Jyotirlingas Of India

Rameshwaram is an island situated in the gulf of manner at the very tip of the Indian peninsula. A very important pilgrim centre of the Indians. Rameshwaram is the place from where Lord

Rama, built a bridge across the sea to rescue his consort Sita, from her abductor, Ravana. This is also the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of killing Ravana. Both the Vaishnavites and Shaivites visit this pilgrimage which is known as the Varanasi the south.

Rameshwaram is significant for the Hindus as a pilgrimage to Benaras is incomplete without a Pilgrimage to Rameshwaram. The presiding deity is the Linga Of Sri Ranganatha, which happens to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of India. Rameshwaram is also popularly referred to as the 'Benaras of the south'. In order to attain Moksha it is believed that the visit to Rameshwaram is mandatory.

Mythological History:
According to the Hindu mythology i.e. the story of Ramayana Lord Rama performed thanksgiving rituals to Lord Rama after the battle at Sri Lanka and his triumph over the demon king Ravana. Owing to this Rameshwaram attracts Vaishnavites (worshippers of Lord Vishnu) and Saivites (worshippers of Lord Shiva) alike.Sri Lanka is at a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram. In fact the entire area of Rameshwaram is associated with various incidents from the Ramayana. Rameshwaram happens to one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India.

Location and Area:
The religious island is spread in an area of 61.8 square kilometers and happens to be in the shape of a conch. The Ramanatha Swamy Temple occupies major area of Rameshwaram.The masterpiece of Dravidian architecture boasts of the largest temple corridor in India. Different rulers built the Ramanatha Swamy Temple over a period of time starting from the 12th century. The temple comprises of twenty-two wells where the taste of the water of each well is different from the other.

Pilgrimage Attaractions of Rameshwaram:
Ramanathaswamy Temple
Ramnathswamy temple was built in the 17th century. Situated close to the sea on the eastern side of the island, this temple is famous for its 1200 gigantic granite columns. The 54 metre tall gopuram (gate-tower), 1220 metres of magnificent corridors and the flamboyant columns embellish and render fame to the temple. The water in each of the 22 sacred wells in the temple tastes different.
Agnitheertham
100 metres away from the temple is Agnitheertham, where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva, to absolve himself from the killing Ravana.
Gandamadana Parvatham
The imprint of Lord Rama's feet placed on a Chakra (wheel) is found in this shrine which is at the highest point on the island at 2 km from Rameswaram.
Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi named after Rama's bow, is at the eastern end of the island at a distance of 8 kms from Rameshwaram. The boulders around the sea between Srilanka and this place known as Adam's bridge, are believed to be used by Hanuman to reach across Srilanka. Dhhanushkodi was completely destroyed by the cyclones of 1964. Kothandaramaswamy temple is the only salvage of the cyclone. Idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman and Vibhishana (brother of Ravana), surrendered to Rama, here.
Erwadi
An important site for Muslim pilgrims, Erwadi houses the tomb of Ibrahim Sahid Aulia. At a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram is Erwadi. Muslims from across the globe visit Erwadi especially during the month of December to participate in the annual festival celebrated as a tribute to the saint.
Around Rameshwaram:
Ramanathapuram
This ancient town is the district headquarters. The Ram Vilas Palace of the Sethupati Rajas is a must visit place. The oil portraits of the Rajas of the past centuries and the articulately designed ceilings and walls embellished with eighteenth century murals, the subjects of which vary from business. Meetings with the English to battles with the Marathas, make this place more interesting.
Tirupullani
Outside the island, there are three other sites traditionally connected with Sri Rama's expedition to Sri Lanka. A big temple in Tiruppullani commemorates the tradition that there the Lord obtained a bow and arrows to use in the impending war from its presiding Deity and also that the Lord of the Ocean who had refused to help Him finally submitted.
Uthirakosamangai
16-km southwest of Ramanathapuram stands the renowed Shiva temple of Uttarakosamangai. Manikkavachagar has sung of it. The Lord is Mangaleshvara and the Goddess Mangalesvari. The temple has inspired many Tamil works of devotion. So, of course, has the Ramanatha temple in Rameshwaram.
Sethu
5-km south of the temple is Sethu, where there is a celebrated temple of Sri Anjaneya, and where, tradition holds, Sri Rama built a bridge to Sri Lanka. In Devipatnam, or Navapashanam, also by the sea, there are nine stones visible at low tide. It is believed that they were set up by Sri Rama to represent the nine planets, the Navagrahas.
Tourists Activities at Rameshwaram:

Come along with us and explore the architectural beauty of temples at Rameshawaram:
Ramanathswamy temple built in 17th century and is popular for its 1200 gigantic columns, the 54 meters gate tower and also 1220 meters of magnificent corridors represents the architectural beauty of the temple.

Explore the adventure of Beach Activities at Rameshwaram:
The beach at Rameshwaram is clam and quite and very rare sea species and coral reefs. There are many remarkable variety of marine species like algae, starfish, sea cucumber, crabs, sponges and sea cow are found here. Travelers can even enjoy the sight of dolphins. Tourists can get involved in swimming, sun bathing and also enjoy the sights of frolic dolphins.

Can also opt for Sightseeing at Rameshwaram:
Most of the people prefers to organize picnic at Rameshwaram. The majestic beaches of Dhanushkodi, Olaikuda, and Pamban are the most wonderful sights to organize the picnics. The Olaikuda beach is located at the distance of 1 kilometer from the main temple. Its the beach that is the best for bathing.

There's something Nature lovers also:
Rameshwaram is the paradise for the nature lovers. Most favorite tourist activity in Rameshwaram is the Bird watching. Different variety of birds like Sea Gulls and Australian Flamingos which flies during the winters. The place is having different color, shapes and sizes. The chirping of these birds are also very much popular at Rameshwaram.

Enjoy Shopping at Rameshwaram:
Shopping for south silk sarees and Kanjiveeraum are the must buy things in Rameshwaram.

 The nearest airport is Madurai, 173 kms away. Rameswaram has rail connections with all major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and Tanjavur. Connected with all the important towns of Tamil Nadu, buses and taxis ply regularly. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation also operates buses to Rameswaram.

Grishneswar is the 12th Jyotirling among the total 12 Dwadasha Jyotirlingas. The temple is situated at a place called Ilapur. The temple is just 2Kms away from world famous Yellora caves. The village name is called Verul. The temple development was mainly done during Chatrapathi Shivaji. Later during 16th century Vithoji and during 17th century Queen of Indore Ahalya bai Halkar also contributed a lot for further development.

Importance of the place:
The Grishneshwar Jyothirling is situated in Western state of India, Maharahtra. The temple is just 20Kms away from Daulatabad which is nearer to Aurangabad. The temple premesis is very spacious and surrounded by a large wall on all the four sides. The Jyotirling and the Goddess, Grishneshwari, both are seen in inside the Garbha gruham. Lot of art work can be seen on the walls.

Other interesting visiting places surrounding Grishneshwar Jyotirling are listed below:

Koneru is nearer to the temple and considered very sacred. Yellora Caves are just two kilometers from the temple. These caves are the integration of Hinduism, Jain and Buddhism. There are total 34 caves which are very famous for the art they show on the entire walls. These caves are made between 6th and 10th century. Ajanta caves, Kailasa caves, Aurangjeb Tomb, Bibi ka Makbara, Panchaki, Mini TajMahal are some more in this list.

How to reach:
Nearest Air port is Aurangabad
Nearest Railway station is Aurangabad
From Aurangabad Velur is at a distance of 29Kms. Aurangabad railways station is on the broad gauge line between Secunderabad and Manmad. The distance between Hyderabad and Aurangabad is 615Kms. From Manmad, Aurangabad is only 115Kms.
There are very less lodges available in Velur. Travellers better stay at Aurangabad.

Temple of Lord Nageshwar is situated in Gujarat, and is about 12 kms on way from Gomti-Dwarka to Bhet-Dwarka.The jyotirlinga enshrined in the temple of Nagnath is known as Nageshwar Mahadev and attracts thousands of pilgrims all round the year.

This powerful jyotirlinga symbolizes protection from all poisons and those who pray to the Nageshwar Linga therefore become poison free. This Sivalingam is facing South, with the Gomugam facing East. There is a story for this position.

A devotee by name Naamdev was singing bhajans in front of the Lord. Other devotees asked him to stand aside and not hide the Lord. To this Naamdev asked them to suggest one direction in which the Lord does not exist, so that he can stand there. The enraged devotees carried him and left him on the southside. To their astonishment, they found that the Linga was now facing South with the Gomugam facing east.


According to the Shiv Purana there was a she-demon by the name Daruka in ancient times. Due to Parvati’s blessings she had turned proud and obstinate. A mighty demon named Daruk was her husband. He had collected a huge army of demons and had started harassing all the innocent people there.

He would destroy all the religious rituals performed there. On the western bank of the ocean there was a forest which was abundant with all the good things. The forest was spread across 192 kms. Wherever Daruka would go, the forest with all its good things would go along with her.


Goddess Parvati had appointed Daruka as the caretaker of the forest. Daruka and her husband Daruk both would stay there and terrify people there. People tired of this terror went to Maharishi Aurva. Aurva for the security of the refugees cursed the demons that if they would harass people or destroy religious rituals they would instantly die. When the gods came to know about this they attacked the demons.

Even though the demons would kill the gods they became frightened because, they could get killed because of the curse of the sage. If they did not kill they would get defeated. Seeing the state of the demons Daruka said because of the blessing of Bhavani I can take this forest whereever I want. She went and entered the sea. Now all the demons started residing in the sea and started harassing creatures there also.


Once many a boats having many people seated came there. All the demons caught hold of the people and put them in prison. Amongst the prisoners there was a prisoner by the named Supriya. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He advised all prisoners to recite the mantra ‘AUM NAMAHA SHIVAYA.’ When Daruk came to know about this he ran to kill Supriya.

Supriya called out to Lord Shiva the Saviour. Instantly Lord Shiva appeared through a small hole and a beautiful temple with wall was formed. In the middle of the temple a lustrous Jyotirlinga was installed. Lord Shiva destroyed all the demons and saved the life of Supriya. Here Demons Daruka started praying to Goddess Parvati for mercy.

The Goddess was pleased with the devotion and blesses her. In this way Lord Shiva stays and resides there eternally by the name of Nageshwar and Goddess Parvati by the Nageshwari. According to the Shiv Purana who ever with devotion reads the birth and greatness of this Jyotirlinga will achieve all material happiness and shall get divine status in the end.

Getting there and Around:

By Air - Jamnagar, 145 kms away, is the nearest airport.

By Rail - Dwarka is a station on the Ahmedabad-Okha broad gauge railway line connected to Jamnagar, Rajkot (217 kms) and Ahmedabad (378 kms).

By Road - There is regular bus service from Jamnagar, Rajkot and other nearby towns connected to Dwarka.

Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the sacred abodes of Shiva. It is located in the city of Deoghar, Jharkhand, India. It is believed that the demon king Ravana worshipped the lord here to get the boons that he later used to wreak havoc in the world.

It is also knows as Baba dham and Baidyanath dham. Held as a very holy place, more than a million pilgrims visit this shrine every year. Legend goes that the daemon king Ravana offered his 10 heads one after the another to lord shiva in a sacrifice. Pleased with this lord shiva decended to earth and cured Ravana who was injured. As he acted as a doctor, he is referred to as Vaidhya (sanskrit word for a doctor).

According to the stories narrated in According to the Shiva Purana, it was in the Treta yuga that the demon Ravana, king of Lanka, felt that his capital would not be perfect and free from enemies unless Mahadeva stays there forever, he paid continuous meditation to Mahadeva. Ultimately Shiva got pleased and permitted him to carry his lingam with him to Lanka. Mahadeva advised him not to place or transfer this lingam to anyone. There should not be a break in his journey to Lanka. If he deposits the lingam anywhere on the earth, in the course of his journey, it would remain fixed at that place forever. Ravana was happy as he was taking his return journey to Lanka.

His fate willed otherwise. The gods took it ill. If Shiva went to Lanka with Ravana then Ravana would have become invincible and his evil and anti vadic deeds would have been a big threat. Therefore gods tricked Ravana. It is said that Ravana was offered water by Parvati and through this water which Ravana drank, Parvati made all the waters of three rivers (Ganaga, Yamuna and Saraswati) enter into his stomach.

On his way back from Mount Kailash, Ravana felt an urgent need to urinate and as he could not do so with the holy linga in his hand, he started looking for someone who could hold it for him. At the very moment, Lord Vishnu appeared as a Brahmin in front of him. Ravana asked Vishnu to hold the linga and went to release himself. But he could not stop urinating because of the trick played on him. Vishnu, on the pretext of Ravana making it too late, kept the Linga down on earth. The moment Linga was kept down, Ravana stopped urinating!

Legend goes that Ravana needed to wash his hands after urination to make himself pious. Finding no water source around he hit the ground with his fist and a big crater was made which got filled with water.

When Ravana now tried to move the Linga, he could not. Out of anger he press the linga down with his thumb. But after restoring himself, he started to offer his prayers for the Linga.

The current shrine has many temples with major shrines of Parvati, Vishnu etc. In the month of Shravan (mid june to mid july) hundreds of thousands of pilgrims come to Baba dham. They carry water form the holy river Ganga, from Sultangunj and travel barefoot more than 100 kilometers on foot to offer to baba. Some of them cover the distance within 24 hours. They are called Dak Bam and they do not stop even once in their journey from Sultangunj to Baba Dham.

Most of the devotees pray to Lord Shiva of this shrine with a sense of friendship (Sakha Bhav).

Deogarh is also known as Vaidyanath, Haritaki Vana, Ketaki Vana, Ravana Vana, Chitabhoomi and Hardapeetha. Some schools of thought believe Vaidyanath near Parali in Andhra Pradesh to be the Vaidyanatha Jyotirlingam. Other schools of thought claim that Kiragram in Punjab and Dabhoi in Gujarat are the Vaidyanatha Jyotirlinga temples. The Vaideeswaran Koyil temple in Tamilnadu (which is not a Jyotirlingam temple) enshrines Vaidyanathar.

Legend has it that Ravana meditated upon Shiva, and requested him to come over to Sri Lanka, in order that his capital may become invincible. It is said that he attempted to lift Mount Kailash and take it with him to his capital; however Shiva crushed him with his finger, and Ravana prayed to him and sought his mercy, after which Shiva gave him one of the twelve Jyotirlingams with the condition that if it was placed on the ground it would take root immediately.

Ravana carried the Jyotirlingam and began his trek back to his capital. Varuna the God of water, entered his belly, and caused him to feel the need to relieve himself. Vishnu then came down in the form of a lad and volunteered to hold the Jyotirlingam as he relieved himself. Before Ravana returned, Vishnu placed the Jyotirlingam on the ground, and it became rooted to the spot. A disappointed Ravana offered severe penances to Shiva here, and cut off nine of his heads. Shiva revived him and joined the heads to the body, as if by the work of a Vaidya or a physician, hence this Jyotirlingam goes by the name Vaidyanath. The same legend holds at Gokarnam in Karnataka.

Another legend has it that this temple was re-discovered by a cowherd Baiju, and hence the name Baijnath.

Vaidyanath is also considered to be one of the 52 Shakti Pitha shrines of Sati. It is believed that the heart of Sati fell here, when her half burnt body being carried by Shiva at the end of Daksha's yagna, was chopped to pieces by Vishnu's discus.

The temple: The temple is situated in a spacious courtyard bounded by stone walls. In the temple complex are twenty two other temples. The Baijnath or Vaidyanath temple faces east. The top of the Shiva Lingam is slightly broken, keeping with the legend that it chipped away when Ravana tried to uproot it. Near the temple is the Sivaganga lake. The Chandrakoopa well, near the main entrance is said to have been built and consecrated with water from several thirthams by Ravana.

Getting there :
Parli Vaijnath (Maharashtra)
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad- 210 Km
Railway Station: Parli Vaijnath

Deities: Mallikarjuna (Shiva);
Location:Srisailam, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh
Best time to visit: All year around
Festival & Event: Mahashivaratri

Srisailam is located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. This whole area is full of forests of Kadali, Bilva trees, mountain ranges and Patalaganga (Krishnaveni river). All of them echo from these joyous voices of devotees.

Puranic History of Srisailam

When Kumar Kartikeya returned to Kailash after completing his trip around the earth, he heard about Ganesha�s marriage from Narada. This angered him. In spite of being restrained by his parents, he touched their feet in obeisance and left for Krounch Mountain.

Parvati was very distraught at having to be away from her son, implored Lord Shiva to look for their son. Together, they went to Kumara. But, Kumara went away a further three Yojanas, after learning about his parents coming after him to Krouncha Mountain.

Before embarking on a further search for their son on each mountain, they decided to leave a light on every mountain they visited. From that day, that place came to be known as JyotirLinga Mallikarjuna. It is believed that Shiva and Parvati visit this palce on Amavasya (No moon day) and (full Moon day) Pournami, respectively.Visiting this JyotirLinag not only blesses one with innumerable wealth, but also name and fame and fulfils all the desires.

Once, a princess named Chandravati decided to go to the Jungles to do penance and meditation. She chose Kadali Vana for this purpose. One day, she witnessed a miracle. A Kapila cow was standing under a Bilwa tree and milk was flowing from all of its four udders, sinking into the ground. The cow kept doing this as a routine chore everyday.

Chandravati dug up that area and was dumb founded at what she saw. There was a self-raising Swyambhu SivaLinga. It was bright and shining like the sun rays, and looked like it was burning, throwing flames in all directions. Chandravati prayed to Siva in this JyotirLinga. She built a huge Shiva Temple there. Lord Shankara was very pleased with her. Chandravati went to Kailash wind borne. She received salvation and Mukti. On one of the stone-inscriptions of the temple, Chandravati story can be seen carved out.

Location and Development of mallikarjuna swamy temple

Shaila Mallikarjuna�s holy place is located on the banks of River Krishna. Here River Krishna is in the form of Patalaganga (underground spring). Lakhs of devotees take a holy dip here and then go for the Darshan of the JyotirLinga.

During the Karnataka Movement, Chatrapati Shivaji used to come to take a Darshan
of the JyotirLinga during the Maharatri. He built a tower on the right side of the Temple and also opened a free-meal center.

Nature And Beauty

The kings of the VijayaNagar Dynasty too built a Temple, Tower, Portico and a pond. Ahelyadevi Holkar, a great devotee of Siva built a strong bathing wharf consisting of 852 steps on the banks of the Patalganga. Earlier, this part of the Shaila mountains was an unreachable tough terrain and fraught with danger. Even then, devotees, with their sheer will power, used to reach there in large numbers.

Hiranyakashipa, Narada, Pandavas, Sri Ram are some of the great mythological personalities who have visited this holy shrine. shankara bhagavatpAda, Renukacharya, akka mahAdevi, hemareddy mallamma are some of the great devotees who worshipped Lord mallikArjuna here.

How to go there:

By Road: Road distances from Srisailam are Atmakur (113 km), Anantapur (325 km), Bangalore (538 km), Mumbai (971 km), Calcutta (1491 km), Delhi (1685 km), Dornal (49 km), Hyderabad (232 km), kurnool (180 km), chennai (568 km), Nagarjuna sagar (180 km), Nandyal (158 km), Tirupathi (436 km), Vijayawada (248 km), Visakhapatnam (614 km)

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Markapur on Guntur-Hubli line. Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Kurnool, Nandyal are also convenient railheads.

By Air: The nearest airport is at Hyderabad(232 km) which is air linked with Bangalore, Bhuvaneswar, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Nagpur, culcutta and other major cities. Continental Aviation also connects with Hyderabad.

Srisailam is well connected with APSRTC and AP tourism buses from kurnool, Hyderabab, Mahaboobnagar, Nalgonda, Devarakonda, Guntur, Vijayawada, Ongole, Mahanandi, Mantralayam, Anantapur etc. some Karnataka state buses have daily trips from Hubli, Mysore, Raichur, Dharwad, Sholapur Etc.

Local Attractions: Alampur (207 km), Dindi Reservoir (64 km), Nagarjunasagar (180 km), Sangameswar (18 km), Mahanandi, Belum Caves.

Accomodation and Contact Numbers:
The Devasthanam is having 25 individual cottages, Pathaleswra Sadan with 23 Deluxe Suites, Sivasadanam guest house with 100 rooms, T.T.D Guest House with 10 rooms,Chandeswara Sadanam with 22 rooms and a dormitory Choultry consisting of 7 Halls.

Devasthanam has also constructed a modern complex with 112 suites named as Gangasadan and Gowrisadan. At present this complex is leased out to Tourism Department.

Besides this there are 40 private choultries consisting of about 1200 rooms and they are also providing accommodation to the pilgrim.

The Department of Tourism is maintaining Punnami Guest Houses consisting above 50 suites.

Telephone directory:

Reception Office
+91(0)-8524-288888
+91(0)-8524-288889

Information center/donation counter
+91(0)-8524-288885

Executive officer
+91(0)-8524-288881(o)
+91(0)-8524-288882(r)

Adminstrative office
+91(0)-8524-288883

Temple office
+91(0)-8524-288887

P.R.O’s office
+91(0)-8524-288886

Nandhiniketan
+91(0)-8524-287134

It is located in the Kedarnath near Badrinath (Vadu Naadu) Lord Shiva: Kedara Nathar, Ambal: Gowri, Theertham: Mandakini, Patikam: Sambandar, Sundarar, Travel Base: Rishikesh

Description: It is the famous and one of the best known in all India is called Lord Shivastalams and it is also known as the most sacred pilgrimage centers of the country. It is situated in the Lofty Himalayas. It is coming in the top list of 12 Jyotirlingams which is in Northern part, while Rameswaram is the Souther part. The leader of the spiritual Ali Sankaracharya is closely associated with Kedarnath, Kedarnath was the shrine steeped in antiquity, which are rich in lengend and religious significance.

The Himalayan shrines was achieved to lord shiva which has been glorifield by the Tamil Tevaram Hymns which is composed by the Nayanmars of the 1st millennium CE. It is shrines indraneela Parvatam in Nepal, there are Gowrikund, Kedarnath, and Mount Kailash which is in Tibet. But in none of that Nayanmars visited Kedarnath, Sambandar sang it has been praises from the Kalahasti.

There was a Tamil hymns of the Nayanmars refer to Kedarnath as Tirukkedaram. The Kedarnath was the fourth of the Tevara Stalams which is hailed by the Tamil hymns of the Nayanmars, which is situated outside of the Tamilnadu/ Kerala/ Karnataka i.e in Vada Naadu.

The Temple: it is situated in the Himalaya and its height is a 12000 feet in which awe inspiring surrounding, this is the small shrine is accessible by foot, only 6 month a year. The temple which are there in Kedarnath enshrining the Jyotirlingam of Lord Shiva opens only when the sun enters the Zodiac sign of Aries and it is closing when the sun enter Scorpio. The priests then go to Ukhimath, where the worship of the Kedareshwara is continued during the winter season.

Kedarnath is situated on a ridge which is at right angles from below the 23000 feet it is high snowy peak of Mahapanth. Kedarnath was situated on the Rudra Himalaya range.The Rudra Himalaya is also called the Pancha Parvata; its has five peaks which are Rudra Himalaya, Vishnupuri, Bhramapuri, Udgari-Kanth and Swargarohini.

 It is believed that four of the Pandavas died on the last of these peaks.Legend: the legend is that the parvati worshipped Kedareshwar to be unite with Lord Shiva as her Ardhanareeswarar. The Kedara Munivar was also said to established this shrine visited by the Pancha Pandavas.

Legend: it has both Nara and Narayana – two incarnations of the Vishnu practised severe penances at Badrikashramam, in the front of a shivalingam fashioned out of the earth. When Lord Shiva was present in front of them, they requested to lord Shiva to take up his permanent abode as a Jyotirlingam at Kedarnath.
Legend: the pandava princes has said pandava that she want to visit the kedarnath after the great kurukshetra battle.

 Lord Shiva is keep watching the pandavas, he had assumed the form of a male buaffalo and entered the earth. And it is also said that the rear of its body remained here, as in Kedareshwar. The front part of the body is believed to be in Nepal. This legend says that when Lord Shiva entered the ground, he was become the five fold – his hind remained at the Kedar, his arms Tunganatha, his face Rudranath, his belly was Madhyameswara and his jata Kalpeswara. These all five shrines was known as the Pancha Kedara.

In this place it is believed that Pandavas are visited here several times. Arjuna was believed to have come here to pray to Shiva to obtain the coveted Pasupataastra. The other Pandavas are believed to have come here in search of him, and there Draupadi came across the heavenly lotus Kalyana Saugandikam, and was requested to Bhima to bring here some more of the same. It was during his venturing out to seeks these flowers that Bhima met Hanumaan.

The tradition was is that pilgrims which is first visit Yamunotri and Gangotri which is bring with them the holy waters from the sources of the rivers Yamuna and Ganga and was offer abhishekams to kedareshwara. There was a traditional pilgrim route is Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devaprayag – Tehri – Dharasu – Yamunotri – Uttar Kashi – Gangotri – Triyugnarayan – Gowrikund and Kedarnath. Alternatively, the route to Kedar from Rishikesh is via Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath.

It is near the kedarnath is the source of the river which is Mandakini, Mandakini join Alakananda at Rudraprayag.

Getting there :

By Road : Kedarnath is connected by road with Badrinath (242 KM), Dehradun (268 KM), Delhi (450 KM), Haridwar (250 KM), Kotdwar (256 KM), and Rishikesh (226 KM).

Route : Rishikesh to Kedarnath vai Rudraprayag :- Rishikesh -> Rudraprayaga -> Agastamuni -> Kund -> Gupta kashi -> Phata -> Soneprayag -> Gauri Kund.
Gouri Kund to Kedarnath is 14 KM. This ditance has to be covered by foot, ponies, palkies.

By Rail : The nearest convenient railway station are Dehradun and Haridwar. These are well connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta and rest of India through Rail netwaork.


By Air : The nearest convenient Air port is Delhi. Which is further well connected with Mumbai, Calcutta and rest of India through Air netwaork.

Deities: Lord Shiva
Location: Omkareshwara, Madhya Pradesh
Famous for: One of the twelve jyotilinga of Lord Shiva
Best time to visit: July toMarch

Gods of all the Gods Lord Shiva’s Omkareshwar linga is situated on the mountain Mandhata.Shri Omkareshwar temple stands on a one mile long, half a mile wide island that has been formed by the fork of the Narmada.

The sacred island, shaped like the holiest of all Hindu symbols, `Om’, has drawn a hundred generations of pilgrims. The white dome of the temple is constructed of soft soap stone displaying intricate carvings on the upper portions and stone roof of the temple. Verandhas with columns which are carved in circles, polygons and squares encircle the shrine. The tower or Shikhar was built in Nagara style and consists of 5 layers, each representing a different deity.

Before entering the temple one has to pass through 2 rooms. The Omkareshwar is not affixed to the ground, but is naturally installed there. There is always water around it. The significance of this linga is that the linga is not situated below the cupola. The idol of Lord Shiva is situated on the top of the temple.

Situated on the banks of the Narmada, Omkareshwar is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is located at a distance of about 12 miles from Mortakka in Madhya Pradesh. The river Narmada spits into two and forms an island Mandhata or Shivapuri in the center. The shape of the island resembles that of the visual representation of the Omkara sound, Om. There are two temples here, one to Omkareshwar and one to Amareshwar.

Legend has it that the Vindhya mountain prayed to Shiva – Omkareshwara and was blessed here. Legend also has it that upon the request of the Devas, the Shivalinga split into two, one half being Omkareshwara and the other Amaleshwara or Amareshwar. King Mandhatha of the Ishvaku clan is believed to have worshiped Shiva here.

The name Omkareshwar derives from the word Om, which signifies the most sacred Hindu symbol. This island is shaped like the Om and is about 2km long and 1km wide. As you probably know by now, the lingam is the symbol of Lord Shiva and there must be simply thousands of them in India.

The jyotirlingam or the lingam of light, however, is special. It is believed to derive currents of power from within itself as opposed to an ordinary lingam which is ritually invested with mantra shakti (power invested by chants) by the priests.

Structure and Significance of Omkareshwar Temple:
A special feature of the location of Omkareshwar Temple is that the river Narmada branches into two and forms an island Mandhata or Shivapuri in the center. The Omkareshawar temple is built in the North Indian style of architecture, with high spires. Devotees consider worship to Panchamuga Ganesha, to be very auspicious.

The Omkareshwar Temple is built in the Nagara style and is characterized by a lofty shikhara. There are also shrines to Annapurna and Ganesha here. The Omkareshwar is not affixed to the ground but is naturally installed there. There is always water around it. The significance of this linga is that the linga is not situated below the cupola. The idol of Lord Shiva is situated on the top of the temple.

Other Attraction:
Despite the damage done by Muslim invaders in the time of Mahmud of Ghazni (11th century), there are still many temples on this island, both Hindu and Jain. You can spot a huge Nandi Bull (the vehicle of Lord Shiva) carved in the hillside opposite the temple to Gauri Somnath at the western end of the island. Don’t miss the 24 Avatars, a group of Hindu and Jain temples, the 10th century Satmatrika Temples (6km) and the Kajal Rani Cave (9km), a lovely picnic spot with a great view and Shri Omkar Mandhata, Siddhnath Temple, 24 Avatars, Satmatrika Temples, Kajal Rani Cave.

Festival:
The Temple can be reached by ferry from the banks of the river. A huge fair is organised here on the day of Kartik Poornima.

How to reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is at Indore which is around 77 km away from here. You can take a bus or hire a cab to get here in around 2 hrs.

By Rail: Omkareshwar railhead is the nearest station from here at a distance of 12 km,hiring a taxi is the best way of commuting from station to the Omkareshwar city center.

By Road: There are regular buses in and out of Omkareshwar to all major cities of Madhya Pradesh.

It is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in which is enshrined the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha.Standing on the western bank of India's holiest river Ganges,Varanasi is the oldest surviving city of the world and the cultural capital of India.

Here gravitate the teeming millions of India to seek benediction and spiritual peace by the darshan of this Jyotirlinga which confers liberation from the bondages of maya and the inexorable entanglements of the world. A simple glimpse of the Jyotirlinga is a soul-cleansing experience that transforms life and puts it on the path of knowledge and bhakti. Vishweshwara Jyotirlinga has a very special and unique significance in the spiritual history of India.

Tradition has it that the merits earned by the darshan of other jyotirlinga scattered in various parts of India accrue to devotee by a single visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Deeply and intimately implanted in the Hindu mind, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been a living embodinent of our timeless cultural traditions and highest spiritual values.

The Temple has been visited by all great saints- Adi Shankaracharya, Ramkrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekanand, Goswami Tulsidas, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, Gurunanak and several other spiritual personalities. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts visitors not only from India but abroad as well and thereby symbolises man's desire to live in peace snd harmony with one another. Vishwanath being a supreme repository of this spiritual truth thus strengthens the bonds of universal brotherhood and fellow feeling at the national as well as global levels.

On January 28, 1983 the Temple was taken over by the Govt. of Uttar Pradesh and it's management ever since stands entrusted to a Trust with Dr. Vibhuti Narayan Singh. Former Kashi Naresh, as president and an Executive Committee with Divisional Commissioner as Chairman. The Temple in the present shape was built way back in 1780 by Late Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore.

In the year 1785 a Naubatkhana was built up in front of the Temple by the then Collector Mohd. Ibrahim Khan at the instance of Governor General Warren Hastings. In 1839, Two domes of the Temple were covered by gold donated by Punjab Kesari Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. Third dome but was remained uncovered, Ministry of cultures & Religious affairs of U.P. Govt. took keen interest for gold plating of third dome of Temple.

Purana of Kashi Vishwanath jyotirlinga

Nirvikar cahitanya and Sanatan Brahma have assumed the form of Saguna Vishwarupa from the initial Nirgun Roopa or form. The Shiva Shakti roopa became the Purusha (man) and Stree (the woman) again. Prakriti and Purusha (Nature and man) (Shiva-Shakti) were once ordained by Shiva to do tapas in the universe in order to create the best being. He specified the best place for this purpose.

When a prayer was held, Nirgun Shiva, with His own powers and aura, created a wonderful city called Panchakoshi. Vishnu, who resided there, spent a lot of time praying to Shiva after which several watersprings originated there. Vishnu was amazed at this wonderous event, and even as he tilled his head, a gemstone fell from his ear. Because of this place, it was also called Manikarnika.

The entire Panch Koshi area of Manikarnika waters were then gathered into the Trident by Shiva. Then from the navel of Vishnu was born a lotus flower with Brahma in it. Brahma was ordained by Shiva to create a world, at which Brahma created this wonderful world. It had fifty crore Yojanas of area and fourteen lokas. In order to save the lives of these who are bound by their own actions or karma. Shiva kept panchakoshi city away from the entire universe. In this city, Shiva Himself established the saviour Muktidayak JyotirLinga, which He can never leave.

Shiva removed this very Kashi from His Trident and set it in this mortal world. It was not to be destroyed when Brahma’s day ends, but during Pralay i.e., final destruction of the world, Shiva saved it by keeping it safe in his trident. So the kashi is called avimukta kshetra. In Kashi, the Avimukteshwar Linga is there forever. Those who can never hope for salvation, attain Moksha here.

This holiest city of Panchakoshi, with its capacity to destroy every conceivable sin, is the vehicle of a special Moksha by the name “Samyugha”. That is the reason why this city which is ruled by Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesha, is the place, where even divines want to die. Sarwaguna from inside and Tamoguna from outside, are the qualities of Rudra here. When prayed to, Vishwanatha Bahagavan Sri Shankar made this abode and resided there with Parvati.

Glory of Kashi
Kashi city is the place for Moksha and Ganga. Those who live here attain Mukti or Salvation, even without having to travel to any place of pilgrimage. Any one, be it a man, woman, young, old, Sahava, pure or impure, Prasuta, Aprasuta, Swadesh, Andaja, Udibhaja, of whatever caste, all attain Moksha. There is not an iota of doubt in this. Whatever a person may be doing, eat, sleep or anything else, if he departs from this world from Avimukteshwar, he definitely attains Moksha.

Any small act of goodness or Punyakarya, takes away all the sins. Good as well as bad people are born on this earth. But by living in Kashi, both attain Moksha. Later, several people came forward to build this temple. A king by the name Banar developed this city of pilgrimage. About one and half thousand beautiful temples were built here. The tower of the Vishweshwara temple is a hundred feet high.

Kashi nagar is so great that even if the universe is to be destroyed in Pralaya, it would remain intact. Dandapani and Kalabhairav guard this city. They stay there forever. On the Ganga banks eighty four bathing ghats are located. There are also several teerthkundas. They have been there right from the times of Vedas.

History of the Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi, which was a pious place of pilgrimage for the hindus, soon became an eyesore and source of jealousy for the Muslims. From 1033 to 1669 AD Kashi came under several destructive attacks. Temples were demolished and Masjids built there instead. But due to the dedication of the Hindu devotees, the JyotirLinag pilgrimage place continued to develop. During the reign of the British and the Marathas, this place really developed well. Even the Jaina and Boudha monks helped to keep the place of the city intact.

The Kashi Vishweshwar temple as we see it now was built by Ahalya Devi Holkar in 1777 AD. In 1785 AD, the then King of Kashi, Mansaram and his son Belvant Singh built many more temples near Varanasi. In 1755 AD, the Avadh pantof pratinidhi (representative) got the old temple of Bindumadhava repaired and renovated it beautifully. The kalabhairava temple was built by Srimant Baji Rao Peshwa in 1852 AD.

King Ranjit Singh had the Kashi Vishwanath temple towers covered in gold. A huge bell hangs in the temple. It was donated by the King of Nepal. Surrounding Saranath, there are many Budhhist stupas, Viharas and Chaitra grihas. In 1931 AD the mahabodhi society had built a very beautiful Buddha temple in Saranath.

The Hindu devotees visit Kashi to make offering. Here they perform many rituals and consider themselves blessed. Along side, several foreign tourists visit this place regularly. Places worth seeing include Ghats, temples, tapobhoomi and the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Kashi Kshetra and Sri Vishweswara JyotirLinga are connected as the holiest shrines in the world. The Ganga water here is considered as the nectar of the earth. Dying in Kashi or performing the final rites is considered as the way to the Heavens. Kashi - Rameshwar(1) yatra is the prime pilgrimage for the Hindus.

Temple Timings:

The Temple opens daily at 2.30a.m. in Mangala Aarati 3 to 4 a.m. ticket holders are permitted to join. From 4 to 11 a.m. general Darshan is allowed. 11.30 to 12 a.m. mid day Bhog Aarati is done. Again 12 noon to 7 p.m. devotees are free to have darshan. From 7 to 8.30 p.m. evening Sapta Rishi Aarati is done after which darshan is again possible uptill 9 p.m. when Shringar/Bhog Aarati starts. After 9 p.m. Darshan from out side only is possible. Shayana Aarti starts at 10.30p.m.The Temple closes at 11p.m.

How To reach Varanasi:
Varanasi is the cultural capital of India and the melting pot of Indian civilization. Varanasi or Benaras has a well-developed transport network and is well connected to all the major Indian cities and states by air, road and rail.

By Air
Varanasi is well connected and accessible to major Indian cities and tourist spots. There are daily domestic flights to and from Varanasi to several cities in India. Apart from the state owned Indian Airlines, there are many private air taxi operators that offer their services from Varanasi to other Indian cities. In fact, the daily flights on Delhi-Agra-Khajuraho-Varanasi route are quite popular among the tourists.

By Rail
Since Varanasi lies in the heartland of the North Indian plains, it is well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and other parts of India. There are two railway stations in Varanasi, the Kashi Junction and the Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantonment). Rajdhani Express from Delhi or from Calcutta passes through Varanasi too. One can also catch trains from Mughalsarai, just 10 km south of Varanasi.

By Road
Situated in the flat Ganga plains, Varanasi has a good network of roads. frequent public and private buses and road transport to all the major towns of Uttar Pradesh and nearby areas.

Contact Address
Chief Executive Officer
SHRI KASHI VISHWANATH MANDIR
Vishwanath Gali,VARANASI-221001
Telephone Number: 0542- 2392629

Trimbakeshwar temple is a religious center having one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The extraordinary feature of the Jyotirlinga located here is its three faces embodying Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra. Due to excessive use of water, the linga has started to erode. It is said that this erosion symbolizes the eroding nature of human society.

The Lingas at Trimbakeshwar are covered by a jeweled crown which is placed over the Gold Mask of Tridev (Brahma Vishnu Mahesh). The crown is said to be from the age of Pandavs and consists of diamonds, emeralds, and many precious stones. The crown is displayed every Monday from 4-5 pm (Shiva).

All other Jyotirlingas have Shiva as the main deity. The entire black stone temple is known for its appealing architecture and sculpture and is at the foothills of a mountain called Brahmagiri.Three sources of the godavari originate from the brahmagiri mountain. Introduction of the holy place Shri Trimbakeshwar

500 years back from now there was built a city which later on became famous as Trimbakeshwar. In the period of the Peshwas regime Nana Saheb Peshwa had instructed to sonstruct the Trimbakeshwar temple and developed and beautified the city of Trimbakeshwar.

There is a mountain named the Brihmagiri Mountain 18 K.M. from the city of Nasik in the Nasik district. This is one of the parts of the Sahayadri Vallies. The city of Trimbakeshwar is located in the bottom of this mountain.

This is a beautiful natural place with the cold weather as it is situated 3000 ft. above from the sea. There are two different routes to get to here. From Nasik to Trimbakeshwar, it is only 18 K.M. This route was built by the help of Shri Kashi Nath Dhate in A.D. 871. One can easily get amode of transport from here every hour.

The other easy route is the Igatpuri - Trimbakeshwar rute. This route is 28 K.M. long. Unlike the Nasik -Trimbateshwar road. Only some particular and pre-planned and certain mode of transport are available over here.

For the visitors coming from the North the Nasik-Trimbakeshwar route is the better one and more comfortable. The Municiple Corporation was established in Trimbakeshwar in 1866 A.D. The corporation is seruing and taking care of the devotees and tourists for 120 years.

 The corporation has cleansed,beautified and extended the important roads for the comfort of the visitors. The unforgettable establishment of the Phadanvees of the Holkars and the Peshawas are very much ornated and preserved.

How to go there:

By Road :Bombay - Trimbakeshwar 180 kms. Nashik - Trimbakeshwar 28 kms.

State Transport buses ply between Nashik - Trimbakeshwar frequently.

By Rail :Nearest railhead is Nashik Road 44 kms on Central Railway.

By Air :Nearest airport is Nashik 39 kms.

Bhimashankar Temple is  located 110 km away from Pune in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri hills. Bimashankar is also the source of the Bhima river, which flows south east and merges with the Krishna river near Raichur.

The other Jyotirlinga shrines in Maharashtra are Parli, Tryambakeshwar and Grishneshwar. Regular pilgrims near Mumbai visit Bhimashankar from Karjat via Khandas. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary located here is a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune.

LEGEND
This temple is closely associated with the legend of Shiva slaying the demon Tripurasura associated with the invincible flying citadels Tripuras. Shiva is said to have taken abode in the Bhima form, upon the request of the Gods, on the crest of the Sahyadri hills, and the sweat that poured forth from his body after the battle is said to have formed the Bhimarathi river.

Eons ago in the dense forests of Dakini, on the lofty ranges of the Sahaydris lived the evil Asura by the name Bhima with his mother Karkati. Compassion and kindness shivered in the presence of Bhima. The divine and the mortals were scared of him alike. But he was confronted by certain questions about his own existence which continuously tormented him.

When Bhima could no longer sustain his agony and curiosity, he asked his mother to unveil the mysteries of his life. He urged his mother to tell him who his father was and why had he abandoned them in the wilderness of the forest. After much hesitation and with a lingering fear Karkati, his mother revealed to him that he was the son of the mighty Kumbhakarna, the younger brother of the Lankadheeswara the mighty all powerful King Ravana of Lanka.

Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Lord Rama annihilated Kumbhakarna. Karkati told Bhima, that her husband and his father was killed by Rama in the great war. This infuriated Bhima and he vowed to avenge Lord Vishnu. To achieve this he embarked on a severe penance to please Lord Brahma.

The compassionate creator was pleased by the dedicated devotee and granted him immense prowess. This was a terrible mistake, Bramha did. The evil tyrant caused havoc in the three worlds. He defeated King Indra and conquered the heavens. He also defeated a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva – Kamarupeshwar and put him in the dungeons.

He started torturing Rishies and Sadhus. All this angered the Gods. They all along with Lord Brahma beseeched Lord Shiva to come for their rescue. Lord Shiva consoled the Gods and agreed to rescue them from the tyrant. On the other hand Bhima insists and orders Kamarupeshwara to worship him instead of Lord Shiva.

When Kamarupeshwara denied doing that and refused to do pooja to him, tyrant Bhima raised his sword to strike the Shiva Linga, to which Kamarupeshwara was doing abhishekam and pooja. As soon as Bhima managed to raise his sword, Lord Shiva appeared before him in all his magnificence.

Then the terrible war began. But then the holy sage Narada appeared and requested Lord Shiva to put an end to this war. It was then that Lord Shiva reduced the evil demon to ashes and thus concluded the saga of tyranny. All the Gods and the holy sages present there requested Lord Shiva to make this place his abode. Lord Shiva thus manifested himself in the form of the Bhimashankara Jyotirlingam.It is believed that the sweat that poured forth from Lord Shiva’s body after the battle formed the Bhimarathi River.

THE TEMPLE Although the present structure of the Temple appears to be of comparatively recent origins, the shrine Bhimashankaram (and the Bhimarathi river) have been referred to in literature dating back to the 13th century. Built in the Nagara style of architecture, this temple is a modest temple yet graceful temple and dates back to the 18th century. One can also find borrowed influences from the Indo Aryan style of architecture.

It is believed that the ancient shrine was erected over a Swayambhu Lingam (that is the self emanated Shiva Lingam). It can be seen in the temple that the Lingam is exactly at the centre of the floor of the Garbagriham (the Sanctum Sanctorum). Intricate carvings of divinities interspersed with human figurines adorn the pillars and the doorframes of the temple.

Scenes from mythology find itself captured in these magnificent carvings.Within the temple precincts there is also a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shani Mahatma (also called Shaneeswara). The image of Nandi Lord Shiva’s vahanam is installed as is the case with all the Siva Temples, just at the entrance of the temple.

This temple is closely associated with the legend of Shiva slaying the demon Tripurasura associated with the invincible flying citadels Tripuras. Shiva is said to have taken abode in the ‘Bhima Shankara’ form, upon the request of the Gods, on the crest of the Sahyadri hills, and the sweat that poured forth from his body after the battle is said to have formed the Bhimarathi river.

The Gopura-shikharam of the temple was built by Nana Phadnavis. The great Maratha ruler Shivaji is also said to have made endowments to this temple to facilitate the carrying out, of worship services. As with other Shiva temples in this area, the sanctum is at a lower level. The ‘Shani temple’ is located inside the main complex of the temple of Bhimashankar.

Between the two pillars outside the ‘Shani’ temple, one comes across an ancient huge Portuguese bell. Behind the temple, there is a small pathway that leads us to the banks of a river. Stepping out from the Temple one is awed with a bewitching view of the virgin wilderness occasionally interrupted by the glimpses of the majestic forts on the surrounding mountains greets us.

History unveils itself in the peaks of the Sahayadris. Bhimashankar – a place where spiritual splendor merges with Nature’s magnificence is definitely a pilgrim’s paradise. There are other temples and shrines, near the main Temple. There is a shrine to Kamalaja near the Bhimashankara temple. Kamalaja is an incarnation of Parvati, who aided Shiva in his battle against Tripuraasura. Kamalajaa was worshipped with offerings of lotus flowers by Bhrama.

There is a shrine for Siva Ganams, Shaakini and Daakini who assisted Shiva in the battle against the demon. Kaushika Maha Muni is said to have did ‘Tapas’ (penance) here. The place where he bathed is called Mokshakund thirtham which is located behind the Bhimashankara temple. There are also the Sarvathirtha, the Kusharanya thirtha where the Bhima river begins to flow eastward, and the Jyanakund.

ARCHITECTURE: The Temple: The Bhimashankara temple is a composite of old and the new structures and is built in the Nagara style of architecture. It is a modest yet graceful temple and it dates back to mid 18th century. The shikhara of the temple was built by Nana Phadnavis. The great Maratha ruler Shivaji is also said to have made endowments to this temple to facilitate the carrying out, of worship services. As with other Shiva temples in this area, the sanctum is at a lower level.

Although the structure here is fairly new, the shrine Bhimashankaram (and the Bhimarathi river) have been referred to in literature dating back to the 13th century CE. Saint Jñāneshwar is said to have visited Tryambakeshwar and Bhimashankar. A unique bell (roman style) can be seen in front of the temple whcih was presented by Chimaji Appa ( Brother of Bajirao Peshwa I and uncle of Nanasaheb Peshwa )Chimaji Appa collected two large bells after he won war against Portuguese from Vasai Fort. He offered one here at Bhimashankar and other is at Menovali near Wai in front of Shiva Temple on the banks of Krishna river.

There is a shrine to Kamalaja near the Bhimashankara temple. Kamalaja is an incarnation of Parvati, who aided Shiva in his battle against Tripuraasura. Kamalaja was worshipped with offerings of lotus flowers by Brahma. Shaakini and Daakini the Shivaganas who helped Shiva in the battle against the demon are also honored and worshipped here.

WORSHIP: Bhimashankar is an ancient shrine, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. Far away from the tumult of the urban life, peeping through the white fleecy clouds, Bhimashankar, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, can certainly be termed as a Pilgrim Paradise. The dense forests surrounding the high ranges also play an abode to the rare species of flora and fauna. Situated at the extreme end of the Sahyadri Ranges, this place gives a wonderful view of the world around the rivers and the hill stations around.

Bhimashankar is also the source of the Bhima River, which flows south-east and merges with the Krishna River. Endless stretches of virgin forests, lofty peaks that seems to reach out to the heavens and the whispering waters of the Bhima River, Bhimashankar is definitely one of God’s choicest creations. It seems as if Lord Shiva is keeping a silent vigil over the majestic ranges of the Sahyadris. The serenity interrupted only by the silent murmuring of the cool breeze and the occasional chirping of birds, Bhimashankar is definitely a pilgrim’s paradise, a trekker’s delight and a traveller’s sojourn.

HOW TO REACH: Bhimashanker is seventy-four miles or 110 km from Pune by road. State buses go there from Pune twice a week with more than five hours of bus journey. During the Mahasivaratri festival, when there is a great fair at the temple, buses ply to and fro daily. It is also accessible from Karjat on the Pune – Mumbai section of the Central railway. There is not a proper road from karjat to Bhimashankar and only the devotees who wish to go to the temple on foot during festivals use this road. Bhimashankar is located at 19°04′N 73°32′E.

CITY DETAILS: The Khed is the administrative taluka in Pune district, comprising the upper reaches of the Ghod and Bhima rivers. The most famous place in this division is Bhimashankar Temple, located in the village of Bhavagiri 50 km in the north west of Khed. It is located 110 km away from Pune in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri hills. It is also the location of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune. It is about 130 km from Pune by Road and 62 km away from Manchar.

FROM MUMBAI: If coming from Mumbai, take Pune road. About 31.02 Km from Deonar traffic junction lies the Mumbai Pune Expressway (NH-4) after crossing Navi Mumbai and Panvel. After 52 km from Panvel is Lonavala and 50 km from there is on NH-4 is Wadgaon. At Wadgaon, turn left on State Highway towards Chakan which is about 12 km. At Chakan, take NH 50 towards Manchar which is 31 km to Bhimashankar
FROM PUNE: If starting from Pune, drive along the Pune-Nasik highway and turn off at the road leading to Bhimashankar.

The mountain road is quite a steep climb. The distance is about 160 km from Pune. Accommodation at Bhimashankar mainly comprises two bungalows [with a capacity of 8 beds] and tents.

POOJA DETAILS: Three worship services are offered every day. Mahashivratri is a season of greate festivity here. Normal Puja – Rs 25; Abhishek Puja – Rs 51; Rudra Abhishek – Rs 151; Maha Puja – Rs 351; Lagu Rudra Abhishek (Includes 11 Brahmans) – Rs 751 (Includes 11 Brahmans)

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
Morning – 4:30 am
Aarti – 5:05 am
Normal Darshans – 5:15 am to 11:30 am.
No Abhishekam between – 11:30 am to 11:50 am.
Maha Puja – 12 pm.
/noon Maha Nivedhyam – 12:30 pm.
Abhishekam and Normal Puja – 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.
Shringar Puja – 2:45 pm to 3:15 pm.
Aarti – 3:15 pm to 3:30 pm
Shringar Darshan – 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm
(Except Pradosham on Monday or Amavasya or Grahan or Maha Shiv Ratri. Kartihik Month, Shravan Month – No Mukut and no Shringar Darshans).

Rudrasamhita sloka in its reference to Bhimashankar says, Daakine Bhimashankaram. There is also a Bhimashankar temple at Bhimapur hill near Guwahati in Assam where legend holds that a demon by name Bhima who inflicted havoc upon the beings in the area, was slain by Shiva, as he tried to kill a king enaged in Shiva worship.

This is not to be confused with the legend Mruthumjaya Lingam, where Shiva emerged from a Shivalingam to vanquish Yama the Lord of death. The Shiva Purana and the Koti Rudra Samhita refer to Bhimashankar temple in the Kamarupa country. However there is also a reference to Mount Sahya, where it is stated that Shiva – Bhimashankara appeared on the Sahayadris.

Three worship services are offered each day. Mahashivratri is a season of great festivity here.It is to be noted that the Rudrasamhita sloka in its reference to Bhimashankar says, Daakine Bhimashankaram. There is also a Bhimashankar temple at Bhimapur hill near Guwahati in Assam where legend holds that a demon by name Bhima who inflicted havoc upon the beings in the area, was slain by Shiva, as he tried to kill a king enaged in Shiva worship.

This is a legend similar to that where Shiva emerged from a Shivalingam to vanquish Yama the Lord of death. The Shiva Purana and the Koti Rudra Samhita refer to Bhimashankar temple in the Kamarupa country. However there is also a reference to Mount Sahya, where it is stated that Shiva – Bhimashankara appeared on the Sahayadris.

There is also a Bhimashankara temple at Kashipur near Nainital in Uttarakhand, which was referred to as Daakini country in ancient days. It is believed that Bhima the Pandava prince was married to Hidamba, a Daakini here. Mahashivaratri is celebrated in great splendour here too. This temple also has shrines to Bhairavanath and Devi, and a temple tank by name Shivaganga.

ACCOMMODATION: Pilgrims usually stay here for three days. The local upadhyayas or priests make arrangements for the lodging and boarding of pilgrims at a small cost. Visitors are accommodated in either temporary hutments or in dharamshalas near the village. A new dharamshala is under construction.

Best Time to Visit is between August to February. Though any time of the year is good to visit Bhimashankar, it is better to avoid visiting during summer. Similarly during monsoon unless one likes trekking, it is better to avoid. That leaves the best period to seven months between August to end February.

This historic city situated at height of 1678 ft. from mean sea level and geographically positioned at 230 11 north longitude and 750 50 latitude and the tropic of cancer also passes through Ujjain, and also situated on the bank of river Shipra.

Since ages Ujjain has been a centre of religocultural activities of not only the nation but also of the whole world. Since ancient times the basic reference of Hindu panchang time, namely the prime meridian passes through Ujjain. For this reason it was an important referral point on the earth for the ancient astronomers. According to Mahabharata and other Puranas (Skand purana) the Ujjain city came into existence some 3000 yrs. ago. The archaeological evidence also supports this view .

During the time of Chand Pradyot (6th century B.C.) Buddhism was at its peak in the area of Malwa of which Ujjain was the capital. A little later, the regime of Samprati saw the jainism as a widely followed religion in this area. Later Kalidas of the 2nd century B.C. had captured the imagination and admiration of not only India but also of the whole world.

 Ujjain was on the trade route joining the north and the south, the east and the west and hence trade and commerce of this area was highly developed, Coins of different regions in the country have been found in and around Ujjain which proves that the traders and pilgrims from all over the world used to visit this ancient holy city situated on the bank of the pious river Shipra ruled by Mahakala the deity of the deities.

 There are some landmarks in Ujjain that can find place in the world map of tourism and attract thousands of piligrims and tourisits from all over the world every year. Ujjain has been thriving on pilgrims and tourists since ages and it is likely to be so. in future too.

Mahakala of Ujjayini is known among the twelve celebrated Jyotirlingas in India. The glory of Mahakaleshwar temple has been vividly described in various Puranas. Starting with Kalidasa, many sanskrit poets have eulogised this temple in emotive terms. The tradition of Mahakala in the minds of the people is eternal. Ujjain used to be the central point for calculation of Indian time and Mahakala was considered as the distinctive presiding deity of Ujjain.

This temple has been renovated by successive dynasties – Shunga, Kushana, Satavahana, Gupta, Parihar, Parmara and comparatively modern period of Marathas. Altutmish pulled this temple down in 1235 A.D.
Reconstruction of this temple structure was done at the instance of Ramchandra Baba Shenvi, a Subedar of Malwa under Ranoji Scindia. Renovation and carving facilities in the temple have regularly been looked after in the contemporary period also.

The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known to be Dakshina Murti or southfaced. The unique distinction of dakshina murti worship, upheld in the tantric tradition is realised only in Mahakaleshwar,among the twelve Jyotirlingas of India. Like the Mahakala shrine, installed in the upper sanctum of Omkarshewar temple, the idol of Omkarshewar-Shiva is consecrated in the upper sanctum of this temple. Nagchandreshwar image on the third storey is opened for darshan only on Nagpanchmi days.

Location:
Location:In Ujjain, on the banks of Rudra Sagar Lake, Madhya Pradesh
Dedicated to: Lord Shiva
Significance: One of the twelve Jyotilingas of Shiva

How to get there :-

By Air : Indore- 53 Km

By Rail : The nearest railway station is Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

By Road : Well connected to all cities.

Somnath Temple or Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is situated in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra, on the shores of the Arabian Sea, on the western coast of Gujarat in India.

The temple is dedicated to Someshwara, another name of Lord Shiva, with moon on his head and isfirst among the twelve Jyotirlinga Temples in India.

Built at the shore of the Arabian ocean on the western corner, Somnath Shiva Temple is a well-known pilgrimage center in India. This Jyotirlinga shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is also known by other names such as Deo Pattan, Prabhas Pattan, or Somnath Pattan. Somnath literally means “The Protector of Moon God”.

Relics of old Somnath
Someshwar Mahadev Temple is believed to have built out of gold originally by Somraj, the Moon God himself, then rebuilt by Ravana in silver, then by Lord Krishna in Wood, and then by Bhima (the strongest of the five Pandava brothers) in stone. The present temple is the seventh one reconstructed beyond six repeated destruction by the Muslim invaders.

Architecture of Somnath Mahadev Temple
Though built in the Kailas Mahameru Prasad style, the Somnath Temple’s architecture influences that of Jain style. The temple consists of Garbhagruh, Sabhamandap and Nrityamandap with 150 feet high Shikhar and a Kalash at its top. The dome of the temple is the biggest one.

The Somanath temple faces east and has a vast central hall with three entrances, each protected by a tall porch. Added attractions are the carved doorways, the sculptured representations of Nandi (the celestial bull) and the figures of goddesses.

 In the balconied corridor is the damaged form of Nataraja statue. Shri Kapardi Vinayak and Shri Hanuman Temple are other spots to be noted in the temple. This temple is said to be the place where Lord Krishna performed all his Lilas. There is a small cave in the temple where a lamp burns continuously.

History of Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple

According to myths, moon was married to the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati. But he was preferential to Rohini and ignored other queens. The angry Daksha cursed Moon that he would lose his beauty and brightness. Eventually, moon came down to Prabhasa with Rohini and worshipped the Sparsa Linga of Somnath. Subsequently, he was blessed by Lord Shiva to grow and shine in the bright half. It was Lord Brahma who installed the Brahmashila and paved way for the construction of the temple.

Somnath Temple Darshan Timings

Somnath Temple is open for darshan from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. Aartis are conducted three times a day. First Aarti at 7.00 am second one at 12.00 Noon and third one at 7.00 pm.

Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Festivals

Somnath Mahadev Fair - This fair is celebrated in November, to mark the birth of Kartikeya (Lord Muruga), son of Lord Shiva. Also known as Kartik Purmima Mela, the fair features stage shows, folk dances and instrumental music in the Somnath Temple.

Maha Shivaratri - Shivratri Festival at Somanath Temple is another major festival celebrated here in the month of February – March every year. Thousands of Hindu devotees visit this Jyotirlinga shrine during Shivratri Festival.

Other Tourist Attractions Near Somnath Temple

A sound and light show called “Jay Somnath” is displayed in the temple every night during 8.00 to 9.00. There is a beach outside the temple where visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunset point, Vallabhghat.

Bhalka Teerth

This holy Bhalkha Teerth is located 5 km on Prabhas Veraval highway. It is said to be the place where Lord Krishna was struck by an arrow of a tribal.

Dehotsarg Teerth

Also known as Shri Krishna Neejdham Prasthan Tirth, Dehotsarg Teerth is located on the banks of Hiran, about 1.5 km from Somnath Temple.

Tourist Places near Somnath Temple

Other nearby tourist places near Somnath include Veraval Beach (5 km), Gita Mandir (1 km), Somnath Museum, Junagadh Gate, Ahalyeshwar Mahadev Temple built by Queen Ahalyabai, Lakshmi Narayan temple, Balramjiki Gufa, Mahaprabhuji's Bethak, Triveni Sangam, Shree Parashuram Temple, Sun Temple, Prachi and Shashibhushan temples, Shree Veneshwar Mahadev Temple, Chorwad Beach (26 km), and Gir National Park (43 km)

How to Reach Somnath Temple

By Road / Bus

Somnath is well connected by road to nearby places such as Veraval (7 km), Junagarh (85 km), Porbandar (122 km), Bhavnagar (266 km), Ahmedabad (465 km), and Mumbai (889 km).

By Train / Railway Station

Veraval Railway Station is the nearest railhead, 7 km from Somnath. It is connected to Ahmedabad and some other cities in Gujarat. Veraval Railway Station Code is VRL.

By Air / Flight

The nearest airport is 55 km away at Keshod, which is linked to Mumbai. Regular buses and taxis are available between Keshod and Somnath. The nearest international airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at Ahmedabad.

I was looking up the historic Jyotirlingas.They have some wonderful legends connected with them. Here is a list of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The 12 Jyotirlingas are all linked with Puranic legends and are the most revered of temples devoted to Lord Shiva in India.
1. Somnath- The shrine is located at Prabhas Patan in Gujrat.
2. Mahakaleshwar- The shrine is located at Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh.
3. Bhimashankar- The shrine is located in the Sahyadri hills near Pune, Maharashtra.
4. Tryambakeshwar-The shrine is located near Nasik in Maharashtra.
5. Kashi Vishwanath- The famous shrine is located in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.
6. Omkareshwar- The shrine is located in an island in the river Narmada in Madhya Pradesh.
7. Kedarnath - The shrine is located in Uttarakhand.
8. Sree Sailam- The shrine is located near Kurnool.
9. Vaidyanath- The shrine is located in Deogarh in Bihar.
10. Nageshwar- The shrine is located near Dwarka in Gujarat.
11. Grishneshwar- The shrine is located near Ellora.
12. Rameswaram- The shrine is located in the island of Rameswaram, TamilNadu.

The Great Story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati Marriage The muth of wedding of Lord Shiva and Shakti which is a single mainly essential myth which is connected to the event of Mahashivaratri. The legend tells why Lord Shiva had got wedding a next occasion to Goddess Shakti, which was his great wife. According to myth of Lord Shiva and Shakti, the daylight Lord Shiva got wedded to Parvati which is great as Shivaratri – the dark of Lord Shiva.

Legend which is goes the Lord Shiva and his wife Sati or Shakti were frequent from wise Agastya’s ashram past listening to Ram Katha or legend of Ram. Going on their mode a Jungle, Shiva saying Lord Ram which is searching the wife Sita which had been Kidnap by the Ravana, he was the king of Lanka. Lord Shiva was curved by his skull in respect to lord Ram.

Sati has been shocked by the Lord Shiva’s performance and was inquire by which reason he started a obeisance to a simple worldly. Shiva learned Sati that Ram be an life of Lord Vishnu. Sati, though, he was not content with the answer and the Lord asked her to go plus confirm the certainty intended for her.

By her influence to modify form, sati take the appearance of Sita appear and earlier of Ram. Lord Ram right away accepted the proper uniqueness of the divinity and had asked, “Devi, why are you unaccompanied, where’s Shiva?” On this, Sati realize the fact regarding the Lord Ram. However, Sita was similar to protect to Lord Shiva and while sati take the appearance of Sita her position had tainted. Since to moment, Shiva separate himself beginning as a wife. Sati had become a depressed by the modify of position of Lord Shiva however she stay on at increase Kailash, the residence of Lord shiva.

Presently, Sati’s father was the Daksha which are prepared a yagna, however he do not request Sati or Shiva since he had an argument through Shiva in the courtyard of Brahma. However, Sati who had required attending the Yagna, she was go still while Lord Shiva do not respected the suggestion. To the large pain, Daksha unseen her incidence and do not even present and was not still Prasad for Shiva. Sati was feel shamed and he was decided to strike with deep pain. She jump in to the Yagna shoot and was immolated herself.

Lord Shiva turn into enormously angry while he was hear the reports of Sati’s immolation. Shipping the stiff of Sati, Shiva begin to achieve Rudra Tandava or the skip of damage and wipe absent of the empire of Daksha. Everyone was scared as Shiva’s Tandava had the influence to obliterate the total creation. In arrange to peaceful Lord Shiva, Vishnu detached Sati’s body in to 12 pieces and throw them on the world.

 It is believed that anywhere the quantity of Shakti’s body floor, there emerge a Shakti Peetha, which counting the Kamaroopa kamakhya in Assam and the Vindhyavasini in up. Lord Shiva be currently without help undertook exact reparation and retire to the Himalayas. Sati which take a re-birth as Parvati in the relations of God Himalaya. She perform apology to crack Shiva’s thought and succeed his mind to facilitate of Kamadeva – the God of love and obsession.

Kaamadeva asked parvati, who had found it hard to crack his penance. Shiva turn into particularly angry and breach his third eye that compact kaamadeva to remains. It has simply past Kamadeva’s wife Rati’s earnest that Lord Shiva decided to revive Kaamadeva.

After that, Parvati undertake cruel reparation to succeed over Shiva. Through her attachment and influence by sage devas, Parvati, also recognized as Uma, and was lastly talented to into wedding and was absent from simplicity. Their wedding was solemnized a day earlier than Amavasya in the month of Phalgun. This daytime of merger of God Shiva and Parvati is famous as Mahashivratri every year.
Some other story on it

According to one more story of the myth, divinity Parvati perform tapas and prayer on the favorable moonless dark of Shivaratri to district off any vice that might occur her husband. while after that, womenfolk has begin the tradition of pray for the healthy organism of their husbands and sons on Shivaratri day. Single women request for a companion similar to Shiva, which is measured to be the perfect husband.

Shiva (Sanskrit: Auspicious One) is one of the main deities of Hinduism that is worshipped as the paramount lord by the Shaivaite sects of India.In Hinduism, Lord Shiva is regarded as the representation of the Supreme Being.

 He is known as the third element in the Hindu Trinity (Trimurti), the other two members being Lord Brahma - the creator and Lord Vishnu - the protector. Shiva is the destructive form of the Almighty. As the cycle of destruction and recreation is always in a circle, Shiva’s primary responsibility is maintaining the life cycle.

Scholars say, as the Mahakaal, Shiva destroys and dissolves everything into nothingness but as Shankara, he also reproduces that which has been destroyed and dissolved. His symbol of Lingam or the phallus represents this reproductive power.

Lord Shiva is also considered to be the most unique of all Hindu gods and also the God of all. A great ascetic, Shiva is the only godhead who is forever in deep meditation, totally absorbed in contemplation in His abode, Kailaasa Mountain in the great Himalaya. Lord Shiva is also said to be inseparable from Shakti - Parvati the daughter of Himavaan - Haimavati. There is no Shiva without Shakti and no Shakti without Shiva, the two are one - or the absolute state of being.

Shiva is often shown with many faces, as creator, destroyer and preserver in total command of the cosmos. He contains both good and evil. He is moody, free of inhibitions, easy to please, protector of the down trodden, and has the power to alter the laws of destiny. Thus, it is Lord Shiva is known as the God of mercy and kindness. He protects his devotees from all evil that are always around us. He blesses his followers with grace, knowledge and peace.

Shiva as Ardhanareeswara
Lord Shiva is said to be half man and half woman. In the full figure of Siva the male and female principles are united. Shiva Linga - the symbol of Lord Shiva which consists of both Lingam (phallus) and yoni (the female organ) represent the totality of his nature and the totality of all created existence.

Appearance and Attributes of Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva is shown either in meditating or in the form of a Dancing God Nataraj where his dance is to the beat and rhythm of creation. He is also shown in sculptures with many hands. One pair of hands, for example, represents the balance between life and death. Shiva is 'tri netra' or three eyed, and is 'neela kantha' - blue-necked (having consumed poison to save the world from destruction).

 Besides, there are a lot many attributes associated with Lord Shiva. Here is a brief description of some of the important symbols that depict Lord Shiva. Each of his depiction signifies a different aspect of his Supreme Being.

Unclad body covered with ashes: This form of Lord Shiva depicts that Lord Shiva’s presence is much higher than this physical phenomenon. According to some scholars, Shiva’s body smeared with cemetery ash points to the philosophy of the life and death and the fact that death is the ultimate reality of the life.

Jata (Matted Hair): The flow of his matted hair represents Shiva as the Lord of Wind or Vayu, who is the subtle form of breath present in all living beings. Thus it is Shiva which is the lifeline for all living being. He is Pashupatinath.

Sacred Ganga: The holiest of the holy rivers, Ganga flows from the matted hair of Shiva. According to a legend, Shiva allowed an outlet to the great river to traverse the earth and bring purifying water to human being. Ganga also denotes fertility - one of the creative aspects of the Rudra.

The Third Eye: Lord Shiva is known as the three eyed Lord or Tryambaka Deva. The sun is his right eye, the moon left while the third eye of Shiva on his forehead is the eye of wisdom. It is the eye that looks beyond the obvious. The third eye can search evil from anywhere and destroys it completely.

Half-Open Eyes: The half-open eyes show that the universes cycle in process. When the eyes are completely closed it signifies the dissolvent of the universe and when it is completely open a new cycle of creation begins.

Crescent: Shiva bears on his head the crescent of the panchami (fifth day) moon. This is placed near the fiery third eye and this shows the power of Soma, the sacrificial offering, which is the representative of moon. It means that Shiva possesses the power of procreation along with the power of destruction. The moon is also a measure of time, thus Crescent also represent his control over time.

The Cobra Necklace: This suggests that Shiva is beyond the powers of death and is often the sole support in case of distress. He swallowed the poison kalketu for the wellbeing of the Universe. The deadly cobra represents that “death” aspect that Shiva has thoroughly conquered. The cobras around his neck also represent the dormant energy, called Kundalini, the serpent power. The snake curled three times around the neck of Lord Shiva depicts the past, present and future time. The snake looking in the right direction of Lord Shiva signifies that the Lord's perpetual laws of reason and justice preserve natural order in the universe.

The Vibhuti: Vibhuti is a three line of ashes drawn on the forehead that signifies the Immortality of the soul and manifested glory of the Lord.

Tiger Skin: Lord Shiva is shown sitting on or wearing a tiger skin. The tiger is the vehicle of Shakti, the Goddess of power and force. Shiva is beyond and above any kind of force. He is the master of Shakti. The tiger skin that he wears symbolizes victory over every force. Tiger also represent lust. Thus sitting on Tiger skin, Shiva indicates that he has conquered lust.

The Elephant & Deer Skin: Shiva also wears elephant skins. Elephants represent pride. Wearing elephant skin, Shiva indicates that he has conquered pride. Similarly deer represent the flickering mind. Shiva wears deer skin which indicates that he has controlled the mind perfectly.

Rudraksha Necklace: ‘Rudra’ is the other name of Shiva. It also means strict or uncompromising and ‘aksha’ means eye. Rudraksha, the necklace worn by Lord Shiva shows that he is firm about his cosmic laws and to maintain law and order in the universe. The necklace has 108 beads, which symbolize the elements used in the creation of the world.

Damaru (Drum): A small drum with two sides alienated from each other by a thin neck-like structure represents the two utterly different states of existence, unclear and clear. When a damaru is shaken, the sound formed denotes Nada, the cosmic sound of AUM, which can be heard during deep meditation.

Trishul (Trident): A three-branched trident shown adjoining to Lord Shiva symbolizes His three fundamental powers will, action and knowledge. As a weapon the trident represents the instrument of punishment to the evil doer on all the three planes - spiritual, subtle and physical.

Nandi, the Bull: Nandi is said to be the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The bull represents both power and ignorance. Lord Shiva's use of the bull as his vehicle expresses the idea that He removes ignorance and bequeaths power of wisdom on His followers.

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Aum Shri Ganeshaya Namah

meaning "Praise to Lord Ganesha."
This is the mantra of invocation, adoration and worship. It is repeated to invoke Ganesha's blessings for the auspicious beginning of a task, project, change of life, community undertaking or simply to offer Him our praise.

This mantra is usually taught to children for their good education. It increases their memory power, and they become successful in their examinations. Of course, people of any age may use this mantra when taking courses in a school or university, and for success in attaining their degree.

When this Mantra is repeated, we obtain the object of our pursuit without encountering trials and troubles. The fog on the path is cleared, the resistances to progress eliminated, and the best results are secured with minimum effort. For millenniums, this Mantra has been used with great advantages. Like all Mantras, it is revealed by the Supreme Being, through the Intelligence, Vision, Experience of the divinely illuminated and perfected sages and men of integral God-Experience.

Let the heart utter the Mantra, in faith, and the intelligence be lit up with the luminous knowledge pertaining to it. Love, faith, knowledge these are means of human salvation, liberation, freedom, perfection, fulfilment, all attainments. Ganesha is the eternal Power of Knowledge, Success and Fulfilment. Your strength is multiplied when you are in touch with that which is supreme in that strength.

Your successes are easily obtained, when something in your heart of love and reverence, faith and understanding, goodness and determination, is in contact with that Power which breaks up all limitations, barriers, obstructions, obstacles, difficulties, and makes available to you the sunshine of success, prosperity and abundance.

All your strivings and efforts for peace, happiness, wealth, power, fame, cultural or mental or spiritual attainments, deserve full success, – and it can be obtained with least resistances, much assistance, many favourable circumstances and propitious conditions, by reverencing, through the utterance of the Mantra, God’s Power and Grace embodied in Ganesha.