Uttarakhand is home to many temples that are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, but ‘‘Triyuginarayan’ stands tall among them. This ancient temple is situated in Rudraprayag district, around 252 km away from Dehradun. It is believed that the temple witnessed the Lord Shiva and Parvati marriage in the presence of Lord Vishnu, which is the main reason for its popularity. Since people learn about its significance, they start visiting, and many couples now choose this place to tie the knot. Moreover, the Uttarakhand government is also promoting the temple as a wedding destination.
Built by the revered Hindu guru Adi Shankaracharya ji during the 8th century, the structure of the temple resembles that of the Kedarnath temple. There is a square shaped Hawan Kund (a place of fire) in the temple premises, where devotees have been offering wood since three eras, thus the temple known as “Tri Yug” (three Eras). It is believed that the flame lit during the celestial marriage has been burning perpetually.
Due to its eternal flame, the temple is also known as ‘Akhand Dhuni Temple,’ with ‘Akhand’ meaning ‘Perpetual’ and ‘Dhuni’ referring to its ‘flame.’ Situated in the backdrop of tall lush green mountains, the temple offers a captivating view of its natural surroundings. To access the temple pilgrims need to trek a short distance, which can be covered easily. Visitors can find a limited number of Homestays near the temple which require prior booking.
As per the mythologist, Parvati, the daughter of Himavat or Himavan, tried to attract Lord Shiva with her beauty. After several failed attempts, she undertook a rigorous penance in Gaurikund, located 5 km from the actual shrine place. Later, Shiva proposes to Parvati near Guptkashi before their marriage, as said in Shiva Puran. Devotees who visit Triyuginarayan also offer their prayers at the Goddess Parvati temple in Gaurikund to fulfil their wishes. The temple houses a stone which is called as Brahma Shilla, which is regarded as the actual place of the divine marriage.
The shrine complex includes four holy Kund's that are highly regarded; Rudra Kund, Vishnu Kund, Brahma Kund and Saraswati Kund. Among them, Saraswati Kund is notable, as it is said that a stream of water flows from this kund to other three kunds. It is believed that this Saraswati Kund water flows from Lord Vishnu navel and that bathing in this particular kund is beneficial especially for women's facing infertility issues. Apart from Saraswati Kund, the other Kunds too have their own significance, as Rudra Kund used for bathing, Vishnu kund used for cleansing, and Brahma Kund is for siping.
Pilgrims can access this temple throughout the year but September to April is considered the ideal time to visit. Perched at an height of 6,500 feet, the temple is almost connected with the motorable road, with a small distance to be covered on foot. To access the temple, pilgrims can avail the various transportation services from Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar and other major cities. Prior permission is mandatory from temple authorities for weddings.
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