Dandeshwar Shiv Temple is located in Jageshwar located in Almora District of Uttarakhand. The town is known to all pilgrims across India and globally for its different styles of temples and they have been preserved by the Archeological Survey of India since 13th century. The temple is known for the stone lingams of Lord Shiva and the temple complex is located in the upstream from the Jageshwar temple complex. These shivlingas are naturally formed and are not stone carved. The temple and its architecture prove the ancient and charming impact of ancient mythology.

The temple has a huge bell at the entrance and which is believed to be the important link between the lord and the Gollu Devta. The idol of Shiva during the 18th century can also be found here. The gate of the temple has two idols which represent that the guards of the temple. The entire temple is not carved but is made of natural rocks and that can be seen when one views the temple. The temple is now in the wrecked condition and needs to be renovated.

History

The exact date of the construction of temples in Jageshwar is not found, but according to the Archeological Survey of India (ASI), it is said that they belong somewhere between the 8th Century and 18th century. During the control of King Shalivahandev, these temples were renovated and their inscriptions are found on the temples. The villages were also devoted to the priests of the temples so that they could maintain them properly.

The ASI believes that the Chand Kings of the Kumaon were the regular devotees of the Jageshwar temples and they were cremated in Jageshwar. Adi Shankaracharya also visited the place and believed to have renovated a few temples before they left for Kedarnath. In history, people used to visit Jageshwar when they travelled for the Chardham Yatra. The restrictions on the pilgrimage due to the fewer roads made them visit the place. Also pilgrims passed Jageshwar in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Architecture

Dandeshwar temple was built between the 8th to 18th century. Dandeshwar temple is made up of natural stones and is not at all carved like other temples in Jageshwar. The temple is made up of the Nagada style architecture, is located upstream from the Jageshwar temple complex. The temple is now in the dilapidated condition and the stone lingas in the temple are natural stones. The overall complex of the temple showcases some of the finest ancient style of architecture that is standing still in its tranquility and charm.

Timings

The Dandeshwar Shiv Temple is open from 5.30 am to 11.00 am in the morning and from 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm in the night.

Best Time to Visit

Jageshwar is situated in the mountains and can be visited anytime during the year. Almora being the favorite hill stations attracts a lot of tourists across the world. Summers are cool and pleasant and winters can be very cold including snow.

Places to Visit

Jageshwar Temple

The most renowned temples where the statues of Nandi and Skandi are seen. This temple is the most visited temple and the idol represents the child form of Lord Shiva. The temple is located in the dense forest and still maintains the charm and serenity.

Sri Mahamrityunjaya Temple

This is the largest temple in the complex. The shivlinga in the temple is believed to be the shape of the eye shaped lord Shiva. The temple is the most ancient one and attracts a lot of devotees.

Archeological Museum

This Museum is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India and has housed all the statues and important things from the temple from the 9th to the 13th century.

How to Reach

Jageshwar is well connected via road. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam which is 125 km. Almora is 35 km by road, Pithoragarh is 88 km and Haldwani is 13 km. State transport buses, private taxis and jeeps can be hired to visit Jageshwar.

Festivals

Jageshwar celebrates the monsoon festival during 15th July to 15th August. Apart from this Maha shivaratri is celebrated every year. The Vaddakkunnath Temple celebrates the Pooram festival, which has a magnificent elephant procession and fireworks. Onam is also celebrated during August or September.

Places to Stay

Jageshwar has very few options for stay. The one that are available are at home stay which has very less facilities, but are in budget rates. Most of the visitors prefer staying in Almora which is 35 km and visit Jageshwar as a day visit.