Lakhamandal Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva quite like most of the major temples in Uttarakhand. It is an ancient temple that attracts large number of devotees throughout the year in the strong belief that the Lord will bless them and free them of their miseries and troubles. The temple has a huge mythological relevance among the believers of Lord Shiva.

Location

Known as the perfect religious destination for believers of the Shakti Cult associated with Lord Shiva, the Lakhamandal Temple is a popular tourist destination and attracts large number of devotees from all over the country. It is located in Dehradun district and placed rather uniquely on the slope of a hill. The pious Yamuna River flows right across the village of Lakhamandal.

History

According to local folklore, Lakhamandal was the place where the Kauravas planned to bury the Pandavas alive. Their target was the Lakshyagriha House which was made of inflammable shellac. Their plan was foiled, thanks to the divine grace of Shakti. That’s why, a Shakti Temple was constructed here to acknowledge the power of Lord Shiva. The temple also has a beautiful idol of the Lord’s consort Goddess Parvati.

Temple Details

At the main entrance outside the shrine are two huge carved stones believed to be that of Danav and Manav. They represent the evil and the good respectively. The inscriptions on the temple are from the 8th to the 15th century which makes the Lakhamandal Temple one of the oldest in this region. There is a cave near this place called the Dhundhi Odaari. In local parlance, this means a misty or foggy place or a cave. It is believed that the Pandavas took refuge in this misty cave to save themselves from the evil moves of Kauravas.

The Graphite Lingam

One of the main attractions of Lakhamandal Temple is the shimmering Lingam made of graphite. When it is wet, it gives out a brilliant shine and reflects the temple’s surroundings. The sanctum sanctorum is a huge place with a centrally placed Rekha-Sikhara which keeps the sanctorum protected.

Lakhamandal has a rich archeological history. There are many ancient sculptures and inscriptions on various small temples located in this place. Some historians believe that Lakhamandal was the center of the sculpture making in fifth century AD. Many unique works of art were excavated from this place by the Archeological Survey of India. The ASI now protects this place with the aim of conserving our ancient history.

How to Reach

By Road

Lakhamandal is 75 km from Dehradun and can be reached by road using state transport or private buses, taxis or private cars.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is Dehradun at 107 km.

By Air

The nearest airport is the Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport at 130 km.