LOCATION:-
The spired temple of Baijnath, set against the splendid backdrop of the legendary Dhauladhars, continues to attract people from all corners of the world. The temple is dedicated to Shiva Vaidyanath (Lord of Physicians. It was built by two merchant brothers-Manyuka and Ahuka in 804 AD. The temple of Baijnath has become synonymous with mystic invincibility. The faithful aver that no earthquake can ever damage the temple. It is indeed a remarkable monument in the Beas Valley and lends its name to the rustic township, which has emerged from what was originally a picturesque village called Kiragrama. Baijnath is located near Kausani, a small town 53 km to the north of Almora.
Prime Pilgrimage Attraction of Baijnath:-
Baijnath Temple:
Lord Shiva is venerated here as Vaidyanath (the Lord of Physician) and made in the form of ‘Lingam’ (phallic form of Lord Shiva). The Baijnath Temple is one of the most noteworthy monuments of the Bias valley. The temple was built by two native merchants as Ahuka and Manyuka in 1204 AD. There remain two long inscriptions in front of the present temple. The structure of this temple reminds the early medieval North Indian style of architecture. This style is also called as “Nagara” style. This unique architectural style of the temple has been swallowed from Orissa. The exterior walls of the temple has festooned with numerous alcoves with similes of gods and Goddesses from the Hindu pantheon.
The Baijnath temple consists of a puri or adytum, 8-feet-square inside and 18-feet outside, conquered by a spire of the customary tapering shape. The Mandapa or front hall is 20-feet-square inside and enclosed with a small pyramid fashioned roof. And both the south and north wall of the Mandapa are decorated with an elegant balcony window. Baijnath temple is the landmark of the place and hence the name. Previously the name of this spot was Kirangama, and its name changed after the temple being dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is suffered slight injury from that catastrophe of 1905 whereas neighboring smaller temple of Sidhnath completely collapsed.
Besides its mythological and architectural significance Baijnath temple is also known for its renowned ‘Shivaratri Festival’. The festival is obeyed in the month of March to celebrate the marriage ceremony of Lord Shiva. This festival is meant to be enjoyed in all throughout the night encompasses of many rituals and ceremonies. Every year a huge number of devotes gathered in Baijnath to make their pooja, aarti and Darshan in the blessed festival.
HOW TO REACH:-
BY AIR – The nearest airport is at Pant Nagar, which is at a distance of 180 km from Kausani.
BY RAIL – Kathgodam is the nearest rail station. Some important trains for Kathgodam are the Shatabdi Express, Howrah Express, Ranikhet Express, Rampur Passenger, and Nainital Express.
BY ROAD – Kausani is linked to Almora (54 km), Ranikhet (62 km), Pithoragarh (107 km) and Nainital (117 km). It can be accessed by roads from Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Nainital, Pant Nagar and Ranikhet.
Wher to stay:-
Excellent accommodation facilities in and around Baijnath.