Lakhamandal Shiva Temple in Uttarakhand
A temple is a place where one is closest to God on Earth. Temples also remind us of our culture and history, keeping stories from long ago alive. When we visit a temple, it’s like going on a special journey to connect with something bigger than ourselves. Especially in India, we are truly lucky, as we have so many of these—testimonies of the past.
One such place, which has been a witness to time and culture and has been blessed by the almighty himself, is the Lakhamandal Shiva temple in Uttarakhand.
And here we will tell you all about it—history, significance, and activities performed at the Lakhamandal Shiva temple in Uttarakhand.
About Lakhamandal Shiva Temple
The Lakha Mandal Temple is a historic temple dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva. It’s often referred to as the “Dev Bhoomi” of Dehradun. It is situated amidst the divine rivers Yamuna and Gomti.
The main deity worshipped at the Lakha Mandal Temple is Bhagwan Shiva in the form of a Linga. This temple holds significant historical importance as it was once part of a region known as the “Valley of Hindu Temples” in the Himalayas.
This temple is unique because it has a huge Shivalinga made of graphite that sparkles when water is poured into it. Behind the temple are two doorkeepers of Bhagwan Vishnu, named Dhanav and Manav. The temple also has stone art telling stories from the Tretha Yuga and Kali Yuga, which are exceptionally beautiful and unique to this region. Near the temple, there is a cave believed to be the birthplace of Lord Karthikeya.
The area used to have thousands of temples within a five-square-kilometre area, which is why it is known as Lakha Mandal.
Let us date back to its history.
History of Lakhamandal Shiva Temple
This Dev Bhoomi is said to have been created by the Pandavas during the time of the Mahabharata.
Accordingly, the Kauravas plotted to burn the Pandavas alive in this area while they were in exile in the Himalayas. However, the Pandavas managed to escape and hide in a nearby cave. It’s believed that they first erected the Shiva Linga here during their meditation.
Since then, this site has become a famous place of Hindu worship. At one point in ancient times, the temple was buried under the earth due to a massive landslide. Recent excavations have revealed that it holds significance in the epic of the Mahabharata.
There is also another instance related to Lakhamandal Temple. Once upon a time, Brahma and Vishnu got into a big argument about who was more powerful. Their debate got intense, and suddenly, a blazing pillar of fire appeared between them. Both Brahma and Vishnu were shocked.
They tried to figure out where the fire came from and where it ended, but they couldn’t find any answers. Eventually, they gave up and admitted they couldn’t win. That’s when Bhagwan Shiva appeared and told them to stay humble. Then, Bhagwan Shiva vanished, leaving behind the first Shivlinga. Then, Brahma and Vishnu worshipped the Shiv Linga here.
Significance of Lakhamandal Shiva
Many believe that when someone is dead, he is brought here and revived; they say Bhagwan Shiva’s name and drink Gangajal. Then, their soul leaves their body again, bringing them eternal peace.
Another thing is that if a woman stays all night at the temple on Mahashivratri, praying to Bhagwan Shiva and looking at the Shivlinga while chanting his name, she’ll be blessed with a child.
Activities at Lakhamandal Shiva Temple
While rituals for the deceased were once performed here, they are no longer conducted on the temple premises. Instead, a special pooja is done on the new moon day of August to honour the departed.
Every year on April 12th, the Bisu Mela takes place. It’s a significant festival held at the Lakha Mandal Temple and organised by the local Jaunsari tribes. During this festival, various cultural activities are carried out within the temple premises. Also, the celebrations of Shivratri here are unmatched and a sight to watch and participate in.
So, next time you are lucky enough to be in Dehradun, Lakamandal Shiva Temple should be on your list. And if you are truly lucky, you will be called by the Almighty. As they say, we are invited by God himself when we visit any temple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I reach Lakhamandal Temple?
A: To reach Lakhamandal:
- By Road: You can catch a bus or hire a taxi from Chakrata-Mussoorie Road, which is about 100 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, approximately 107 km from Lakhamandal. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Lakhamandal.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, around 130 km from Lakhamandal. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to reach your destination.
Q: What is the history of Lakhamandal Temple?
A: The Lakhamandal Shiv Temple dates back to the time of the Mahabharata, making it a very old site. Accordingly, it’s said to be the place where Duryodhana, an important figure in the Mahabharata, tried to burn the Pandavas alive in a house made of lac (a resinous substance).
Q: What is the Shivling in Lakhamandal?
A: In the temple, there’s a special Shivling made of graphite. When water is poured on it, it sparkles brightly. People say that if you look at the reflection in the water, your sins will be washed away.
To learn more about revered Sanatan Hindu sites, you can talk to our pandits at NamoAstro.
