Shri Madmaheshwar Temple
Kedarnath, India
- Attend the morning or evening aarti.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Chaukhamba peaks.
- Explore nearby villages and local culture.
- Meditate in the serene environment.
- Trek through the scenic Himalayan trails.
- Visit the Madmaheshwar Temple.
Known for:
Description:
Shri Madmaheshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the second temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. Situated at an elevation of 3,487 meters (11,440 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, it offers breathtaking views of the Chaukhamba peaks. The temple enshrines the navel (belly) part of Lord Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of a lingam. The trek to Madmaheshwar is challenging but rewarding, taking you through lush meadows, dense forests, and picturesque villages. Pilgrims and trekkers alike are drawn to the serene beauty and spiritual significance of this sacred site. The temple's architecture is simple yet elegant, reflecting the traditional style of the region. The surrounding landscape provides a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection.
History:
The history of Madmaheshwar Temple is intertwined with the legend of the Panch Kedar. According to Hindu mythology, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought atonement for their sins by seeking Lord Shiva. To avoid them, Shiva transformed himself into a bull and hid in the Garhwal Himalayas. When Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, tried to catch the bull, it disappeared into the earth, leaving behind different body parts at five different locations, which are now revered as the Panch Kedar temples. Madmaheshwar is where the navel (belly) of Lord Shiva is believed to have appeared. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas themselves. Over the centuries, it has been renovated and maintained by various rulers and devotees, preserving its sanctity and architectural heritage.