Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, Pathankot

Punjab, Pathankot, Amritsar

On the banks of river Ravi, stands the 5500 year old Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, carved onto the caves. This place is also known as Chota Haridwar as ash immersion and other rituals for those who passed away are done here. It is believed to give them liberation as when done in Haridwar. Mythology states that Pandvas stayed here for six months during their exile, in that time period they built four caves and a shiv temple. They crafted the Shivlingam present in the temple and worshiped the Lord shiva here.

Legend

Mythological legend states that, these caves served as home to the Pandavas during their exile. During their 'Agayatwas' they stayed in these caves for six months. They built a temple, crafted the Shivlingam present in the temple and worshiped the Lord shiva here. The Havan Kund made by them, is still present there in temple.

Architecture

On the banks of the flowing waters of river Ravi, a series of steep steps carved onto the rock leads to the cave temple Mukteshwar Mahadev. Mukteshwar temple has a white marble Shivling, with a copper yoni. The Shivling is surrounded by the idols of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Paravati, Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesha. The Havan Kund made by the Pandavas, can also be seen here. In upper region of the 3rd Cave there is a symbol of Chakra, under which the Pandavs used to meditate.

Pic Courtesy : www.mukteshwarmahadev.com

Darsan Info

Temple Timings
24 Hours Open. Can be visited at any time.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire.

Famous Festival

March - Shivrathri
April - Baisakhi, Mukesran Da Mela
October - Navrathri

Culture

Pathankot is at the meeting point of the states of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir and serves as a hub for travel to these states. It is close to the border with Pakistan on its West. It is used by travellers as the base before heading into the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, Dalhousie, Chamba, and Kangra.