Jageshwar is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses more than 200 temples. Hundreds of tourists visit Jageshwar each year especially during Shivratri as it is believed to represent one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. Jageshwar is famous as a center of worship of Lord Shiva and is believed to possess tantric powers. The beauty of the place is enhanced by the deodar trees and the Jata Ganga which meanders its way into the temple complex along with the snowcapped mountain ranges. It is also an important center for meditation because of its tranquility and calm environment. It is also noted for the fairs that take place during Shivratri.
Location of Jageshwar
Jageshwar is located about 36 km from Almora in the Kumaon region of Uttaranchal. It is located on the way to Pithoragarh and Naini. The temple town of Jageshwar Dham is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage spot and has more than 100 temples big and small. Jageshwar lies at a height of about 1,900 mt above sea level. The place is dotted with deodar trees and fragrant sandal wood plantations. There are two main streams, Nandini and Surabhi which flow down the hills and meet near the sacred spot.
What to see in Jageshwar?
Jageshwar is a religious place with over 100 temples devoted to Lord Shiva. You can go around Jageshwar and witness the exquisite architecture of temples like Dandeshwar temple which portrays elegant samples of ancient iconography. The idol of Shiva is that of an 18th century dancing Shiva which is worth a view. The temple has a huge iron bell at its entrance. Most of the temples have imposing architecture and stone images. Do not forget to catch a glimpse of the highly impressive image of Ganesha and life-sized dwarapalas (door guardians) outside the Jagannath temple.
The best time to visit Jageshwar is during Shivratri when the whole place is lit with lights and fireworks continue throughout the night. The famous Pooram festival is another important festival celebrated in Jageshwar at the Vaddakkunnath Temple in April/May. Jageshwar also wears a festive look during Onam in August/September. Another important place which one must visit while at Jageshwar is the Archaeological Museum located near KMVN Tourist Rest House. Exquisite idols and statuettes are on display in this museum which dates back to the 10th century AD.
What to do in Jageshwar
Jageshwar is a devine place. You can walk around the 100+ temples dedicated to various deities, Shiva being the primary deity of Jageshwar (another name for lord Shiva). There are also huge pine and deodar tree in the temple complex
Excursions from Jageshwar
There are several places around Jageshwar which can be explored. One such place is a small temple called Vriddha Jageshwar which is 3kms from Jageshwar. It is believed to be the abode of Shiva, before he came down to Jageshwar. You can be at peace with yourself while in Jageshwar and places around Jageshwar.
Accomodation selection in Jageshwar
Jageshwar doesn’t offer much of a choice when it comes to accommodation. Most people stay at Almora and visit Jageshwar for an excursion. Jagannath Tourist Rest House and Raj Mahal Hotel are two noteworthy places to stay in Jageshwar.
Best time to visit Jageshwar
The best time to visit Jageshwar is around Shivratri in February/March when fair is held in the temple area.
How to reach Jageshwar
By Rail: The nearest railway station to reach Jageshwar is Kathgodam about 135 km away.
By Road: You can reach Jageshwar by road which is just 34 km by road from Almora. Many buses and taxis also ply regularly. You can also visit Jageshwar via Nainital, which is 100 km southwest of Jageshwar.
