How often we wonder to go to places we hear in epics like Ramayan, Mahabharat, Shiv Puran and likewise? Over the time due to name change we are unable to locate them, however if we explore offbeat roads, we will definitely find these places. Such amazing spots are at times
hidden inside some caves or situated in remote offbeat places with mesmerizing history and some are just fascinating spots to explore. Along
the serene banks of the Alaknanda River and picture-perfect settings is
Koteshwar Mahadev, a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace
and natural beauty in the heart of the Himalayas.
Gushing Alaknanda River from between an opening in the mountains makes a panoramic landscape and glad we got a chance to be a witness to its wild currents, cliffs echoing its roar like an untamed extravaganza created by mother nature.
It was the 5th day of our mountain safari and Koteshwar Mahadev
was the 1st spot in the itinerary. 3 km. from Rudraprayag confluence
and approx. 500m. trek down to river bad opens a window to a realm of spiritual
spot known as Koteshwar Mahadev temple. It took us around 45 minutes from GMVN
Tilwara to arrive at parking spot and there after 10-15 minutes trek to reach
the riverbed.
Koteshwar Mahadev is a natural cave temple with self-manifested
(swayambhu) Shivling and the history of the temple goes back to Satya Yug.
In Satya Yug, God Shiv gave a boon to demon Bhasmasura that if he places his hand
on head of anyone, the person will turn into ashes. However, intoxicated by
power demon decided to kill God Shiv and it is believed that God Shiv took refuge
in this holy cave and meditated to Vishnu Bhagwaan for help. It was then Vishnu
Bhagwaan in form of Mohini tricked Bhasmasur into placing his hand on his own
head and demon got destroyed by his own boon. This adds to the spiritual
significance of the temple, and one can feel the tranquility while praying and
sitting inside the cave.
Just outside the cave, a natural waterfall
continuously drips and worship the sacred spot.
Temple attracts lot of devotees during Shivratri and there are dedicated
ghats to let devotees take a dip in sacred waters of Alaknanda.
Post worshipping you will have ample time to click pictures of the
cliffs or just sit in silence and feel the holy vibes. We had planned 1 hour for
the spot but ended up spending over 2 hours here and kids insisted to spend more time here.
To summarize, walk to Koteshwar Mahadev with its panoramic views of the Alaknanda River cutting through the lofty cliffs is as rewarding as the destination. Koteshwar Mahadev is not just a destination, but an experience of devotion, and connection with divine moments of past, where Gods were a part of. Thanking the Gods for allowing us to visit the sacred sport, we started again on Garhwal Safari, drive to New Tehri.
Keep exploring Folks…