JAGESHWAR TEMPLE (Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – Art and Culture)

Context: Prime Minister of India has encouraged people to visit the Parvati Kund and Jageshwar temples in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, emphasizing their natural beauty and spiritual significance.

Jageshwar Temple

• Located: In the Almora district of Uttarakhand's Kumaun region, is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage town.
• This sacred town is famous for its group of 125 ancient temples, which date back to the 7th to the 14th century and were primarily constructed and restored by the Katyuri dynasty kings.
• Dedicated:  Lord Shiva.

• Features: The town is believed to be the place where the worship of Lord Shiva originated, as per the Skandha Purana and Linga Purana, making it a place of great religious significance.

oJageshwar was also a prominent center for Lakulisha Shaivism, a revivalist sect devoted to Lord Shiva. 

oThe temples in Jageshwar are architecturally fascinating, showcasing a blend of North Indian Nagara and South/Central Indian architectural styles.

Parvati Kund

• Parvati Kund in Pithoragarh is one of India's most revered shrines. At an elevation of about 5,338 feet the Hindu pilgrimage site draws the faithful every year. 
• The site has great spiritual significance and is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati meditated.