Jageshwar is a quiet hamlet, set in the Himalayan peaks, surrounded by Deodar forests. Jageshwar is the centre of energies, perched at an altitude of 6135 feet. Believed to be the abode of one of the twelve ‘Jyotirlingas’, it is one of the most important, religious places for Hindus in Kumaon, Uttarakhand. Jageshwar is home to the famous 2500 year old temple and the cluster of 124, beautifully carved, stone temples dating between the 8th and the 13th Century.
Jageshwar is located in the narrow Jat Ganga river valley. The Himalayan mountains form a majestic backdrop for this beautiful temple site. Nandini and Surabhi, the two streams that converge near a sacred spot in the temple complex, surround Jageshwar; it is an absolute delight to walk by the streams and feel calm as one listens to the sound of the water flowing. The perfect culmination of picturesque landscapes, calming environment, history and comfortable lodging The mystical and tranquil setting of Jageshwar makes it an ideal holiday destination to explore, meditate and rejuvenate the body and mind.
Many years ago, Jageshwar used to be a pilgrim halt en-route to the famous Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage. Today, easy access from Delhi via train to Kathgodam and then just a two-three hour drive along beautiful Kumaoni villages and deodar forests makes it a great off-the-beaten track kind of destination. For travellers not having the time to go way up to Badrinath and Kedarnath dhams, it is a convenient option. Jageshwar is also a great stopover for Himalayan jeep safari trips.
Architecture
One can see the simple Nagara style evident in the temples at Jageshwar. Although the presiding deity at Jageshwar is Shiva, a strong Buddhist influence is visible in the carvings. Most of the temples have the stone lingams and very impressive stone images around the altar. A carved doorway leads you to the square sanctum sanctorum. There is a tall curvilinear spire shikhara, surmounted by an amalaka (capstone) and a kalasha crown. Some ashtadhatu (an alloy of eight metals) images are outstanding. One of the rarest specimens in northern India, the Ekamukha Linga can also be seen here.
