Bageshwar is a spiritual town in the state of Uttarakhand, in the Indian subcontinent. Famous for its serene beauty, scenic landscapes, ethereal mountains, and divine temples, Bageshwar is a paradise of north India. Situated on the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers, Bageshwar is surrounded by exotic mountains on all sides. Bageshwar was the common point of trade between Kumaun and Tibet. The city of Bageshwar is of great significance, both religiously and historically. The city of Bageshwar is also mentioned in various Puranas and other religious scriptures and is associated with the principal Hindu deity, Lord Shiva. The Uttrayani festival of Bageshwar town is attended by many devotees and it is of major importance for the local people as well.
History Of Bageshwar
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Bageshwar is an ancient town in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and holds a significant place in the ancient and medieval history of India.Being mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and mythologies, Bageshwar was an important center of trade and commerce during the ancient period. An important pilgrimage site for devotees, the town gets its name from the Bagnath temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a testament to its ancient roots.
Bageshwar also served as the religious and cultural centre during the rule of the Katyuri dynasty from the 7th to 11th century. The dynasty’s rulers were great patrons of art, culture, and heritage, and their influence can still be seen in the ancient town of Bagehwar. Overall, Bageshwar’s history is a rich tapestry of spirituality, cultural aesthetics, and traditional heritage of India. The annual Bageshwar fair is also a hallmark of Bageswar and boasts of its rich cultural extravaganza and spiritual heritage.
Must Read: Best Things To Do In Nainital
The Temples Of Bageshwar:
While you are in the city of Bageshwar, make sure to visit these beautiful temples.
1. Bagnath Temple
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The town of Bageshwar derives its name from the holy temple of Bagnath. The Bagnath temple is located in the heart of the city of Bageswar and got its name when the Markandeya saint visited Lord Shiva in the form of a tiger. Bagnath comes from two words- Bag and Nath, where Bag means Tiger and Nath means Lord. The temple was constructed in 1450 by an ancient ruler of Kumaon, Laxmi Chand, and stands at the confluence of the two rivers- The Gomti and The Sarayu. Every year, to celebrate the memory of the Saint visiting Lord Shiva, the Bageshwar fair is held near the Bagnath temple during the Hindu calendar month of Shravan.
Thousands of devotees attend this fair and take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the rivers Gomti and Sarayu. It is believed that the Bagnath temple and the presiding deity of Lord Shiva in the temple grant the wishes of the devotees who visit the temple. The entrance of the temple is lined by substantial copper bells which reverberate a spiritual aura throughout the temple complex.
2. Baijnath Temple
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A beautiful temple in the ancient town of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand is the Baijnath temple. The temple, now in ruins serves as a major attraction for the tourists visiting Bagehwar. Situated amidst the backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, the Baijnath temple is located on the banks of river Gomti. Once the capital of the Katyuri kingdom, Baijnath now preserves itself as a testament to the glorious history of ancient India. The Baijnath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built around the 12th century. The temple has stood firm and preserved its roots with each passing decade and now is one of the most visited temples by tourists vacating in or near Almora and Bagheswar.
The best time to visit Baijnath is from October to November. The weather remains cold and pleasant during this time, which makes it a good time for local sightseeing amidst the lush meadows and serene mountains. The night turns chilly during these months, so an adequate amount of winter clothes is necessary. The temple closes after Sunset, so make sure you visit the temple before its closing time and marvel at this ancient temple structure that is the heart of Bageshwar town now.
Suggested Read: Temples In Nainital
Visit Gauri Udiyar Near Bageshwar
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About 8 km from the town of Bageshwar, is the famous Hindu Holy shrine, located inside the cave- The Gauri Udiyar. An ancient cave temple, Gauri Udiyar, is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. The temple holds religious significance for the people and is worshipped by many Hindu pilgrims on their visit to Bageshwar. The Gauri Udiyar temple in Bageswar is a testament to the rich culture and heritage of Bageshwar and holds great value for the state of Uttarakhand.
Other top attractions near the Gauri Udiyar in Bageshwar include- The Chabdrika temple, The town of Kanda ( another tranquil township at a distance of 8 km from Bagaeshwar), The Pandsthal Trek ( famous for its trekking and camping activities), The Pindari Glacier trek, (famous for serene views amidst the backdrop of lesser Himalayas and tranquil valleys).
Further Read: Jageshwar In Uttarakhand
Now that you have a complete guide about the town of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand, with a curated list of things to do and places to explore, why waste time to miss out on an opportunity to visit this ancient and peaceful tourist spot of Uttarakhand? Go ahead and plan your next trip to Uttarakhand, to embark on a spiritual journey to the ancient Bagnath temple and the Bageshwar temple, and witness the majestic Garhwal Himalayas.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bageshwar
What are some of the best accommodations to stay at Bageshwar?
Here’s our pick for the Best accommodations in Bageshwar that are highly recommended for excellent hospitality and luxurious stay-z
- Hotel Narendra palace
- Hotel Prashant Bageshwar
- Hotel Sivark
- Kausari Best Inn
- Hotel Shri Bagnath Palace
What is the best time to experience snowfall in Bageshwar?
The snowfall in Bageshwar can be experienced in November and January. The snowfall covers Bagheshwar into a beautiful and enchanting town covered with snow.
What is the best time to visit Bageshwar for comfortable sightseeing?
The best time to visit Bageshwar in Uttarakhand is during June- September. After July, the area receives heavy rainfall which makes it difficult for tourists to explore the exotic locations of Bageshwar. In winter, the town is covered in snow, which is also a breathtaking view for the tourists
Which is the nearest airport to the town of Bageshwar?
The nearest airport to the town of Bageshwar is the Pantnagar Airport, located at a distance of 188 km. Another airport near the town is the Jolly Grant International Airport. Cabs and other modes of transport are easily available from the airport to the town of Bageshwar.
What are some nearby attractions in the town of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand?
The nearby attractions to the town of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand include The Kausani Hill station, Kanda township, Mussoorie, Ranikhet, Dehradun, Shimla, and many more.
Which is the nearest railway station to the town of Bageshwar?
The nearest railway station is the Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 150 km away from the town. You can hire taxis or local buses to reach the centre of the town of Bageshwar.
How can tourists reach the Bagnath temple in Bageshwar?
Tourists and devotees seeking to visit the Bagnath temple in Bageshwar, Uttarakhand can travel through major cities like Nainital, Almora, or Kathgodam easily by road.
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