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Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple

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About

Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is the most revered shrine of Lord Shiva in Haridwar. Surrounded by lush green views and folklore, the temple is particularly known for fulfilling marriage wishes. Along with this, the temple houses a tree which is associated with Maa Parvati's penance. Located close to the city yet away from the hustle, the Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple offers devotees a spiritual experience.

Significance of Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Haridwar is home to multiple shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, and among them, Shri Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple holds special significance. Located on the outskirts of Haridwar, the Bilvkeshwar Mahadev Mandir is visited by a large number of devotees daily. Within the temple premises, there is a place which is believed to be the sacred place where Maa Parvati performed rigorous penance for 3000 years to attain Lord Shiva as her consort. Devotees visit the shrine with a deep faith, as they believe that Lord Shiva fulfils the sincere wishes of his devotees.

Bilvkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, Haridwar

The Bilvkeshwar Mahadev Temple is situated approximately 2 km from the city bus stand and 4 km from Har Ki Pauri. Devotees on a pilgrimage to Haridwar often include this temple in their Haridwar itinerary, which is why it is surrounded by numerous devotees seeking Lord Shiva's blessings.

Surrounded by forested areas, the temple offers a lush green view, especially during the monsoon season. The calm and serene environment of the temple helps devotees connect spiritually with the divine.

Situated close to the city, the temple is well-connected by motorable roads. However, due to unvailability of direct public transport up to the shrine, devotees are required to hire a taxi or rent a two-wheeler to reach the temple. For pilgrims, the Bilkeshwar Mahadev Mandir opens daily around 6:00 AM and closes about 6:00 PM.

A Shrine That Fulfils Marriage Wishes

The main sanctum of the Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is enshrined with a Shivling, which is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu). Being an ancient shrine, the Bilvkeshwar Mahadev Temple is associated with many folklores. According to one such belief, Maa Parvati performed intense penance here to attain Lord Shiva as her husband.

Because of this belief, various devotees, especially women seeking a suitable life partner, offer prayer to the shivling by offering water and bel patra for five consecutive Sundays, believing this ritual will help fulfil their wish for marriage.

Due to the temple's spiritual significance, many saints have performed penance at this temple. One of them is Swami Bholanand Giri Ji. Behind the Gauri Kund, there is a small cave, named Bhola Cave, where Swami Bholanand Giri Ji is believed to have meditated.

Ancient Gauri Kund in Haridwar

Apart from the main shrine, there is another sacred spot called Gauri Kund, which lies just a few metres away from the temple. It is believed that during her penance, Maa Parvati used to bathe in this kund, and whenever she felt thirsty, she drank this water. The kund in itself is an important spiritual site for devotees, because Lord Brahma himself manifested a stream of Ganga water from this kund.

Accommodation

Due to its location, the Bilvkeshwar Mahadev Temple doesn't offer any stays nearby. However, pilgrims seeking an overnight stay close to the temple must travel a certain distance, where they will get a few lodging options.

Food Guide

Not exactly, but some food options are available at some distance from the temple, where pilgrims can enjoy several items.

Important Travel Tips for Visitors

Due to the unavailability of local transport, visitors must book a tempo or taxi.
Free parking is available outside the temple premises.
Temporary prasad and flower shops are located outside the temple.
Drinking water facilities are available near the temple.
Wear footwear while visiting the Gauri Kund area.
Photography and videography are not allowed inside the sanctum.

Major Nearby Attractions

Well, after taking the blessing of Lord Bilvkeshwar Mahadev, devotees can visit other religious places located nearby: including:

How to Reach

By Road: Bilvkeshwar Mahadev Temple is located approximately 2 km from Haridwar Bus Stand. The temple is well-connected by a motorable road, but direct public transport facilities are not available. Visitors can reach the temple via private vehicle or booking an auto or taxi. They can also rent a two-wheeler from the city to access the temple.

By Rail: Haridwar railway station is the closest to the temple, about 2 km away. From there, visitors can hire an auto to reach the shrine.

By Air: Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport is the closest one and is located 39 km away. Taxi services are readily available from the airport to reach Haridwar.

Best Time to Visit

The temple is accessible to the pilgrims throughout the year. However, the ideal time to visit is from September to April, when the weather and conditions are suitable for pilgrims.