Devbhoomi Uttarakhand holds a special place in the hearts of every Hindu devotee due to its historical as well as mythological relevance. Rightly nicknamed devbhoomi the entire state is dotted with numerous ancient temples that depict it’s the colorful and vibrant background. Every temple here is very special and holds some minor or major religious significance. Given below are some of the most historical temples in Uttarakhand which will allow you to know more about this wonderful hilly state and how things were in the bygone era:
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The most historical temples in Uttarakhand:
Jageshwar Group of Temples
The complex comprises of a group of more than100 Hindu temples which can be dated back to 7th and 12th century. These temples belong to the era of Post Gupta and pre-medieval times around 2,500 years ago during the rule of Chand and Katyuri dynasty. Located in close proximity to the main town of Almora this cluster of temples showcase a north Indian nagara style of architecture with a hint of south Indian style as well and are dedicated to various gods and goddesses like Shiva, Vishnu, Surya, Shakti, etc. there one can spend a calm and peaceful time amidst the dense greenery of forests of deodar and oak.
Char Dham Circuit Temples
Char dham yatra of Uttarakhand is located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas and consists of 4 major iconic temples of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Each of these temples are very significant in Hindu culture and are dedicated to various gods and goddesses. Kedarnath is dedicated to kedar form of lord Shiva, Badrinath is dedicated to badri form of lord Vishnu and Gangotri is for goddess Ganga and Yamunotri is for goddess Yamuna. The exact construction date of Kedar and Badri are still unknown but according to research, they were re-established as Maths by Adi Shankara during the 7th – 8th century. All these temples can be explored via a Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter Journey which will also take you to all the different historical places of sightseeing associated with them.
Katarmal Sun Temple
This is a 9th-century temple which was constructed by the Katyuri king Katarmala as his dedication to the sun god on an elevation of 2,116 metres above sea level. Located at a distance of almost 20 kms from the main town of Almora the temple is a true piece of artful architecture. It boasts of fine, intricate designs on the walls and wooden doors and panels making it one of the most beautiful places of worship in India. One of the most remarkable things about this temple is that the idol here was dedicated to the sun god and the first rays of the rising sun used to fall directly on the idol of the deity called Vraddhaditya.
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Lakhamandal Temple Complex
Situated in the region of Jaunsar – bawar within the district of Dehradun is one of the most ancient historical temple complexes of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to lord shiva and is very popular among the shakti believers as well who make it a point to offer their prayer here in order to end all their misfortunes. The excavation research carried out by the ASI here have found some of the most amazing artworks and inscriptions here which dates back to the 5th – 8th century. The granite lingam serving as the central deity here attracts a large number of devotees and history buffs as well. Statues of danav and Manav standing beside the lingam can be seen and there is also an ancient cave present here dating back to the ancient times.
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Baijnath Temple Complex
This complex consists of a collection of 18 different Hindu temples and shrines in the Baijnath town of Bageshwar district in Uttarakhand. The temples in this shrine are some of those rare places where goddess Parvati is depicted with her consort shiva. This group sits on the banks of the holy river of Gomati and consists of deities like brahma, Narsimha, kartikeya, Ganpati, Shiva, Parvati, Kubera, Surya, Garuda and many more. Several inscriptions here depict that the temple can be dated back to as far as 1202 AD during the reign of king Gyan Chand making it one of the most historically relevant temples in India.
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Baleshwar Temple
This ancient temple which is dedicated to lord shiva is located within the core city of Champawat. Dating back to the 10th and 12th century AD this ancient temple was built by the chand dynasty rulers and represents some of the most remarkable and fine architecture and intricate designs. The compound of this temple consists of 2 different temples dedicated to lord ratneshwar and the other one is dedicated to Champawati Durga. The temple holds and depicts incredibly articulate and fine carvings and designs on its walls, ceilings, pillars and panels that it looks kind of like inspired from any south Indian temple. The temple is so important that it is listed as one of the most important national heritage monuments by the government of India.
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Devalgarh Temples
Nestled remarkably amidst the scenic beauty of the Pauri district and holds immense religious and historical importance in the life of every devout Hindu. The temple was founded by the king of Kangra Deval which once used to be the capital city of the Garhwal kingdom during the 16th century AD. Maintained by the Archaeological survey of India this temple gloriously depicts the pinnacle of the Garhwali architecture, designs, and patterns. Some of the most popular temples inside devalgarh complex are – Maa Raj Rajeshwari Temple and Gaura Devi temple. Devalgarh is situated in close proximity to the hill destination of Khirsu and along with being a scenic destination it is also a very popular place for spirituality, meditation, and yoga.
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Mahasu Devta Temple
The construction date of this temple can be drawn back to 9th century AD and as the name suggests it is dedicated to lord Mahasu or the god of justice who is extremely highly revered here. situated on the tuini mori road and using Huna architectural style this place is another one of the lesser-known heritage and historical temples in Uttarakhand. Located on the banks of the holy river of Tonks and amidst the pristine beauty of the surrounding lush greenery. The temple structure in itself is a humble-looking abode of the lord yet it holds incredible historical relevance. The temple can give you a glimpse of the style and design that appealed most to the rulers during that era and will feel like taking a step in the past.
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