Patal Bhuvaneshwar – One of the most Mysterious Temple in Uttarakhand.
Situated at an elevation of 1350 m above the sea level in Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand State – Patal Bhuvaneshar Temple is one of the most mysterious and spiritual temples of Uttarakhand. Located around 13 km from Gangolighat, Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave goes through a long and narrow Tunnel. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, cave runs 90 m deep at the point of the entrance that embraces the first excitement of the quest. Once you enter, you will find impressive structures of stalactite and stalagmite in various shapes. The extent of this limestone cave is fully illuminated with electrical lights helping the wayfarer to relish each episode of wonders.
History of Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple
In Early Twelth Century A.D, Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple is built by the rulers of Chand and katyuri dynasties.
According to legends, this underground cave enshrines Lord Shiva and thirty three crore (330 million) Gods. King Rituparna of the Sun dynasty (Surya Vansha) discovered the cave in ‘Treta yug’ as per Manas Khand of ‘Skand Puran’. As per believe, some doors which are now closed were opened thousands of years back. It is also believed that this cave is internally connected to the four abodes / seats (Char Dham).
During 1191 AD, the cave was discovered by Adi Shankaracharya and ever since it evolved into the modern period of pilgrimage or yatra. The Stone formations of Sheshnag can be seen, holding earth, heaven the world beneath. Havan is performed in a dimly lit, solemn atmosphere, under the spell of holy Mantras. One can also see huge stalactites, called “jatas” of Lord Shiva, located at different location inside the cave.
Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a place where Shiva rested when he chose to visit these parts form the celestial heights of His abode in Kailash Parvat .The cave is believed to connect by an underground route to Mount Kailash. it’s believed that Pandavas, the ‘Mahabharat’ heroes proceeded towards their last journey in the Himalayas after meditating here, in front of Lord Shiva.
Famous Tourist Attractions near Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple | Places to visit near Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple
Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a sacred cave located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. While Patal Bhuvaneshwar itself is a popular tourist attraction, there are several other famous destinations nearby that you can explore. Here are some notable tourist attractions near Patal Bhuvaneshwar:
Munsiyari: Located about 126 kilometers from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Munsiyari is a picturesque hill station known for its breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It is a base for several treks, including the famous Milam Glacier Trek.
Jageshwar: Situated approximately 80 kilometers from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Jageshwar is renowned for its ancient Jageshwar Temple Complex. It is a cluster of over 100 stone temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 9th to 13th centuries.
Chaukori: About 37 kilometers away from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Chaukori is a tranquil hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas. It offers a serene environment, tea gardens, and opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.
Berinag: Situated around 25 kilometers from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Berinag is a small town known for its beautiful views of the Himalayan range. It is also famous for its tea gardens and the Nagmandir, a temple dedicated to the serpent deity.
Gangolihat: Located approximately 13 kilometers away from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Gangolihat is a pilgrimage site known for its ancient temples. The most prominent temple here is the Hat Kalika Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
Abbott Mount: Situated about 91 kilometers from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Abbott Mount is a scenic hill station known for its colonial-era cottages and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and offbeat travelers.
Things to do near Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple | Activities to do in Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple
Pilgrimage: Patal Bhuvaneshwar is one of the most mysterious and spiritual places to visit in Uttarakhand. Devotees from all over country visits here to take blessing.
Meditation in Patal Bhuvaneshwar: Surrounded by beautiful location and panoramic view Patal Bhuvaneshwar is one of the best location to meditate and to heal yourself.
Places to explore near Patal bhuvaneshwar are Berinag, Haat Kalinka Temple, Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple, Pithoragarh Town, Binsar, Nainital, Almora Etc.