Jageshwar is a temple town in Uttarakhand's Almora district, with over 100 stone temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, which inspired the town's common name, "Valley of Gods." Some small and other notable temples exhibit the most incredible architecture and are placed against a backdrop of verdant mountains and the beautiful Jat Ganga stream.
The temple complex, a cultural site protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), contains over 125 temples and approximately 174 sculptures, including Lord Shiva and Parvati statues. Over 25 inscriptions have been discovered on the walls and pillars of several of these temples.
Best Time To Travel
The best time to visit Jageshwar is between April to June and September to November. The spring and early monsoons are the most incredible times to visit, simply because of the lovely day and night weather, which is suitable for sightseeing.
Places To Visit
Jageshwar Archaeological Museum
Established by ASI, this museum has two galleries showcasing an exquisite collection of ancient idols dating back to the 9th and 13th centuries. It is worth the trip if you're curious about ancient history. The 'Dancing Ganesha' and the highly detailed depiction of 'Uma/Maheshwar Sitting on Nandi' with some decisive snake action are among the highlights.
Virdh Jageshwar
A 1.5-km uphill trek from Jageshwar takes you to the top of a ridge where this ancient temple is situated. This place is also dedicated to an old form of Lord Shiva and is the origin of the Jata Ganga river.
Sri Mahamrityunjaya Temple
Lord Shiva is worshipped as the saviour from death in this temple, the largest and oldest one in the complex. Its stone linga (This one-of-a-kind lingam features an eye-shaped aperture. It is thought that reciting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra cleanses an individual of all negativity) is perched between the openings of an eye and is known for its unique carving.
Jhandhi Top
This location is a hidden gem, especially for mountain and hiking enthusiasts. When you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a sensation of being one with nature. You may even camp there or have a picnic with your tribe.
Kubera Temple
This cluster of temples has just three temples and stands on a hill. Its stone Linga of Lord Shiva is made of natural rock and does not have any carving like other lingas of the Jageshwar complex.
Dandeshwar Temple
This temple is located a little further upstream from the Jageshwar temple complex. The Dandeshwar temple complex is in disrepair, with many artefacts totally destroyed. This place is 200 metres from the beginning of the Jageshwar temples in Artola village.
What To Do
Trekking
The whole temple complex covers around 3.5 kilometres along the Jata Ganga river. Trekking or hiking is the ideal way to tour the entire complex on foot while exploring the beautiful river forest.
Star Gazing
Nestled in a valley surrounded by deodar trees, the location provides an ideal backdrop for camping and stargazing by the river. A bright night sky and a pollution-free atmosphere offer different options to experience nature's beauty.
How To Reach
By Train Kathgodam, about 125 kilometres away, is the nearest railhead.
By Road Jageshwar connects all major towns and cities via motorable highways.
By Air Pantnagar Airport is around 150 kilometres away.
