Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple Haridwar
About
Haridwar, a holy pilgrimage city, is known for its religious sites. The city is home to several shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, but the one that is most unique and revered among them is the Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple. The temple derives its name from the Parad Shivlinga (mercury Shivlinga), which is its main attraction. It is believed to be the first temple to house a Parad Shivlinga. Devotees visit this sacred shrine during their pilgrimage to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Paradeshwar Mahadev Temple, Haridwar
Situated within the premises of Harihar Ashram, the Pardeshwar Mahadev Mandir is located in Kankhal, Haridwar. Being part of an ashram, the temple is known for its serene and calm atmosphere. The Parad Shivlinga enshrined in the Pardeswar Mahadev Temple is quite massive and weighs around 150 kg. Due to its rarity and spiritual significance, devotees from all over the country visit the shrine. During the holy month of Sawan, the temple complex is surrounded by numerous devotees.
Parad (Mercury) Shivlinga in Haridwar
Parad refers to mercury that we traditionally see in thermometers. It is believed that Mercury Shivling brings fortune and is highly auspicious. The importance of this Parad (Mercury Shivalingam) is also described in the Brahma Puran, Shiva Purana, and Upanishads. Near the shrine, there is a sacred Rudraksha tree, which also attracts many visitors. It is believed that Rudraksha seeds possess healing properties, which is why we often see devotees wearing them. People often see performing circumambulation (parikrama) around this tree, as its platform houses all 12 Jyotirlingas Shivlingas.
Rudraksh Shop
Within the ashram premises, a shop is housed, where the Pardeshwar Mahadev temple is situated. From this shop, visitors can purchase a variety of Rudraksh and Parad Shivlinga in different sizes.
Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple Timings
The temple remains open for the devotees throughout the week. The shrine portal opens for the pilgrims daily at 7:00 AM and closes around 7:00 PM.
Accommodation near Pardeshwar Mahadev Mandir
A few accommodation options are available near Pardeshwar Mahadev Mandir. Pilgrims wishing to stay overnight here can book these according to their requirements.
Food Guide
A few restaurants and street food carts are available near the temple, which mainly serve basic meals. Visitors seeking more variety can visit other nearby places.
Important Tips for Visitors
- Public toilets and drinking water facilities are available for the devotees.
- Keep your footwear in its designated place.
- Parking facility is also available within the ashram premises.
- Hire an auto or a tempo if direct public transport is not available.
- Expect heavy crowds on weekends and in the Sawan, so plan your visit accordingly.
Major Nearby Attractions
Pilgrims can also explore other major attractions near Paradeshwar Mahadev Mandir, such as:
- Mahamrityunjay Mandir
- Harihar Ashram
- Daksheshwar Mahadev Mandir
- Sati Ghat
How to Reach
By Road: Shri Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple, known for its Parad Shivlinga, is located approximately 4.5 km from Haridwar Bus Stand. From the bus stand, visitors can easily take an auto and e-rickshaw to reach the shrine.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station, which is 3 km away. From there, visitors can easily reach the shrine using local transport facilities.
By Air: The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, approximately 40 km away. Visitors can hire a taxi or a cab to reach Haridwar and its religious sites.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pardeshwar Mahadev Mandir in Haridwar is from September to April. As these months are more pleasant than the others.
Height from Sea Level
Paradeshwar Mahadev Mandir is situated at an elevation of 340 metres (1,030 feet) above sea level.