Overview
Himalaya has always been the abode of the Gods.
The Vedas and Upanishads tell us fascinating stories about gods and demons that dwelt here. Ancient literature refers to this region as Badrikashram, Himavat, Tapobhoomi, Devabhoomi and Kedarkhand. Every cave, rivulet, brook and valley is associated with the memory of a sage or saint and fascinating legends.
Here, where the individual merges with the microcosm called Chardham.
Uttrakhand, long called Devbhoomi belong to some of the holiest Hindu shrines for more than thousand years; pilgrims have been visiting the region with the hopes of salvation and purification from sin. Gangotri and Yamunotri, the sources of both the Ganga and Yamuna, found in the upper reaches of the state and together with Badrinath (dedicated to Vishnu) and Kedarnath (dedicated to Shiva) these all are known as Chardham of Uttarakhand, is one of the Hinduism most spiritually auspicious pilgrimage circuits.
More than a hundred years ago in 1891, Swami Vivekananda wandered in these hills as a pilgrim.
Perched at an altitude of 1870 meters (6135 feet) sits, as though frozen in time, the Hindu pilgrimage of Jageshwar. Legend has it that Lord Shiva would come down from his abode and meditate here, submerged and undisturbed within the confines of the thick Deodar forest. Jageshwar consists of a cluster of 124 exquisitely put together stone carved temples dating from between the 9th and the 13th Century.
It is believed that when Shiva would meditate, all the women of the villages surrounding the area would flock up to see this ‘handsome’ youth in trance. This infuriated the jealous men but by the time they went to see for themselves, Shiva had taken the form of a child. The main temple is still famous as Bal Jageshwar – Child Shiva.
Just 3 km above Jageshwar is the beautiful temple of Vridha Jageshwar – Old Shiva. This was the abode of Shiva before he came down to Jageshwar to meditate.
Jageshwar is located in the narrow Jat Ganga river valley and the two streams of Nandini and Surabhi slide slowly down the hills, converging near the sacred spots of the temple complex. Though now completely off the beaten track, many years ago, Jageshwar was a pilgrim halt en-route to the famous Kailas –Mansarovar pilgrimage in China.
The entire countryside around the area is dotted with caves, each one with its own story. The most famous amongst these is the Airavat Cave and the Pataal Bhuvaneshwar caves, in case you are feeling adventurous.
Jageshwar…….Has not changed in 1000 years……take your time!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and tea service
Accommodation: V Resort
The train reaches Kathgodam at 1155 hours from Delhi, Anand Vihar Terminal. Or you may arrive at 0600 hours by overnight trains that come from various destinations.
You will be met by our driver. Drive to Sattal. Today you will visit Ghorakhal Templewith your guide.
About Ghorakhal Temple: This temple is dedicated to Golu Devta. The word Ghorakhal means "a pond for water to horses". Devotees come here in multitude and make wishes which once get fulfilled then, devotees offer bells here as their gratitude. Thus one can see here thousands of bells hanging in the temple premises. Golu Devta are said to be the "God of Justice".
Overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea service
Accommodation: Abbott Mount Cottage
Drive to Abbott Mount via Danachuli and Devidhura (6 hours). We will make a stop at to Ritha Sahib to visit this historic Sikh Gurudwara en route.
About Ritha Sahib: Here, Guru Nanak met with the Nath Yogis whom he tried to bring to the path of active humanitarian service and to the path of loving remembrance of God`s Name. The story is not mentioned in janam sdkhis, but a strong tradition has grown that here Guru Nanak miraculously made the normally bitter fruit of a soapnut tree sweet for Bhai Mardana to feed on. A soapnut tree (not the original one) is still there and pilgrims receive sweet soapnuts as prasad.
The historic hamlet of Abbott Mount is situated at an altitude of about 7,000 ft above sea level in the eastern part of the Kumaon Hills near the small town of Lohaghat in Champavat District. Abbott Mount was founded by and named after Mr. John Harold Abbott of Jhansi. An English businessman who wanted to start a hill station for the European community at the turn of the 20th century. Unlike many Indian hill stations Abbott Mount has changed little since its inception. There are only thirteen secluded cottages spread over this private hill. There is a picturesque church set amidst the forest and an ancient cricket pitch with an unsurpassed view of the mountains.
Overnight stay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea service
Accommodation: Abbott Mount Cottage
Today we will visit Baleshwer Temple and Mayawati Ashram.
About Baleshwer Temple and Mayawati Ashram:
Amidst the main city of Champawat is the historical "Baleshwar Temple". Built by the rulers of Chand Dynasty, Baleshwar Temple is a marvelous symbol of stone carving. There isn't any historical manuscript that dates the Baleshwar temple, however it is believed to be built between 10 - 12 century A.D.
Mayawati Ashram is also known as the Advaita Ashram. It was during the third visit of Swami Vivekananda to Almora in 1898 that he decided to shift the publication office of 'Prabuddha Bharat' to Mayawati from Madras. A small museum and library are also there in the ashram.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea Service
Accommodation: Chestnut Grove
Today our journey becomes very interesting as we head towards Patal Bhubaneshwar.
About Patal Bhubaneshwar: Patal Bhuvaneshwar is one of the most mysterious and spiritual place of Uttarakhand. This hidden pilgrimage situated at 1,350mts above sea level is mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva. Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a limestone cave situated 13kms from Gangolighat in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand state. The way to the cave goes through a long and narrow tunnel. Other than Lord Shiva the forms of Sheshnag, Kal Bhiarav, Ganesha and several other gods can be seen in Patal Bhuvaneshwar. It is believed that the cave is the abode of 33 crore Gods and Godesses.
Overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea service
Accommodation: Adventure Eco-Camp near Kausani and Someshwar.
Our drive in the Himalayas begins to be more productive than ever as we visit Tripura Devi Temple, Nag Temples and Baghnath Temple.
About Baghnath Temple: Bageshwar got its name from an ancient temple of Lord Shiva situated in the heart of the town. According to myths and legends, sage Markandey was visited by Lord Shiva in the disguise of a tiger. This sacred shrine was built by the rulers of Chand Dynasty in 1602A.D. A fair is held every year on the auspicious day of Shivratri. This sacred temple is visited by thousands of devotees every month, throughout the year and especially during the period of ‘Shravan’. Bagnath temple holds the idols made from 7th to 16th century.
Overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea service
Accommodation: Adventure Eco-Camp near Kausani and Someshwar
Today we will visit Baijnath Temple.
About Baijnath Temple: Below Kausani, in the Garur valley of Katyur, is the famous temple complex at Baijnath. The temple which is reflected in the river Gomti, is remarkable from the sculptural and cultural point of view. The Baijnath Temple is the seat of Baidyanath Shiva, the most prominent among the twelve Jyotirilingas. The campus houses sixteen more temples. 8kms from Baijnath on this road is the famous Kot Ki Mai temple.
Overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea service
Accommodation: Van Serai
We drive to the highly sought after destination, Jageshwar calling Almora on the way to visit Katarmal Temple.
About Katarmal Temple: The Katarmal Sun Temple is a monument of historical importance and also is an example of intricate sculpturing. The first rays of the sun falls straight on this Sun Temple. The main deity of the Sun temple in Katarmal is called Burhadita or Vraddhaditya (the old Sun God). The idols of Shiva-Parvati and Lakshmi-Narayana are also found in this temple. Katarmal Sun Temple complex has one main temple, surrounded by 45 smaller shrines exquisitely carved temples surrounding it.
The Katarmal Sun temple, noted for its magnificent architecture, artistically made stone and metallic sculptures and beautifully carved pillars and wooden doors, the image of Surya in the temple dates back to 12th century. The Katarmal Sun temple has some unique architectural style and the images carved on the walls are very intricately done. Though amidst ruins, it still stands as a major point of attraction in the region and many devotees visit here to offer prayer to the Sun God.
Overnight stay in Van Serai, a very charming lodge with local architectural sensibilities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Tea Services
Accommodation: Van Serai
Today we will visit Dandeshwar, Vridh Jageshwar and Jageshwar Temples.
About Dandeshwar, Vridh Jageshwar and Jageshwar Temples: The spiritual hamlet of Jageshwar is where you can explore its ancient 8-12th century Shiva temples. Counted among the 12 Jyotirlings in the country, Jageshwar lies in a beautiful narrow valley hedged by monarch-sized, ancient deodars.
Exquisite ancient temple ruins, beautiful Himalayan vistas, gurgling stream nearby, Jageshwar offers a spiritual retreat. With morning Yoga sessions and options for massage as well, you can choose to soak in the spiritual energy of this holy area or go for hikes in the surrounding woods. A picnic on the cool riverside is also a very enticing option.
Visit Vridha Jageshwar in the morning, it is a 3 Km trek and is the source of the river Jata Ganga. The view of the surrounding country side is very imposing and 1.5 km beyond from Hiriya Shikhar (2200 m), the view of the Himalayan peaks is awe inspiring. Overnight stay in Van Serai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea service
Accommodation: Jungle Lore Birding Lodge
Our drive to Pangot is interesting as we visit Neem Kirori and Naina Devi Temples en route. Stop en route at Nainital for lunch, boating, cable car ride and shopping. The entire drive is through the delightful lake city of Nainital and through the forested area of Cheena Peak Range via Snow View Point and Kilbury, the main habitats for excellent flora and fauna. Overnight at the quaint and idyllic Jungle Lore Birding Lodge.
About Neem Kirori and Naina Devi Temples:
Founded by the famous Maharaj Neem Karoli Baba in 1962, the temple is very well maintained and kept neat and clean. The concept of this place came into existence in 1942 when Maharaj Neem Karoli along with Shri Poornanand of the Kainchi Village proposed building an Ashram here dedicated to Sombari Maharaj and Sadhu Premi Baba who used to perform yagnas in this very place. Later in 1962, their dream materialised and the forest from this area was cleared and a rectangular platform was constructed. After due permission from the Forest Conservator, Maharaj Ji acquired the lease of this land and constructed a Temple devoted to Lord Hanuman over that rectangular platform and adjacent to it is the Kainchi Temple and an Ashram built for devotees.
The Hanuman temple is built over the platform mentioned above. His devotees started coming from different places and a chain of bhandaras, kirtans, bhajans started. The Pran-Pratishtha of idols of Hanumanji and others was performed on 15th June in different years. Thus, 15th June is celebrated every year as Pratishtha Divas when a large number of devotees come to Kainchi and get Prasad. The number of devotees and the associated vehicular traffic is so large that the district administration has to make special arrangement to regulate the same. Accordingly some changes have been made in the whole complex so that people do not face any difficulty in movement.
The word Naina is synonymous with Sati's eyes. Since then, devotees started visiting this temple. Once the devotee reaches the hill top, prasad can be bought from any of the various shops or it can also one's own offerings from home. After crossing the main gate, there is a big Peepal tree on the left side. On the right side of the temple there are idols of Lord Hanuman and Ganesha. After reaching the main entrance of the temple, there are two statues of lions. Inside the temple, devotees have darshan of three deities. On the extreme left is Mata Kali Devi, the centre representing two Netras or eyes is Maa Naina Devi and to right side is idol of Lord Ganesh. Though the temple is named after Naina Devi (another name for Sati), the biggest social occasion here is the festival held in honour of Nanda Devi.
Overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Tea service
Accommodation: None
Our last leg of the journey to Kathgodam commences at noon as we will board the train to Delhi in the mid-afternoon, arriving in Delhi at 2200 hours.
Tour Ends
Included
- Accommodation on twin / triple sharing basis Meals as per the itinerary
- All surface transfers by a private vehicle A Temple guide | Yoga and meditation sessions in Jageshwar
Location
Stories
Ladakh
The Black-necked Crane is one of the many sought-after species for birders visiting Ladakh. The grace of cranes has inspired stories, songs, and even artwork throughout the ages.
Bandhavgarh
Somewhere or the other, we've all heard that we need to get in touch with our inner child. With such a playful nature, it seems these subadult tigers in Bandhavgarh have beaten us to it.
Andamans
The Andaman Teal, previously considered a subspecies of the Sunda Teal, is one of the many sought-after endemics that the islands have to offer.
Uttarakhand
A myriad of beautiful flowers are in bloom at Jungle Lore Birding Lodge, not only enhancing the beauty of the lodge, but attracting many nectar- and insect-feeding birds
