Madmaheshwar Temple ( Uttaranchal )

Situated in Rudraprayag, the Madmaheshwar Temple is one of the Five Kedar Temples. There is a legendary connection of this place to the birth of Lord Shiva, According to mythical source the stomach of Lord Shiva emerged from here. So devotees throng the temple premise during Shiva Ratri and other festivals related to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is one of the holy Trinities; Lord Brahma is the creator, Lord Vishnu is the preserver and Lord Shiva is the Destroyer.

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Lord Shiva is enshrined in Madmaheshwar Temple. The unique North Indian architecture is noticeable in the construction of this temple focusing on the legendary issues and stories of Kings and warriors. The glorious temple is surrounded by natural vegetation of unparalleled scenic elegance. This sanctified place reflects the spirit of religiosity in India, speaking much of its endless panoramic pilgrim spots and heritage points.

If you want to implore the spiritual vista of India and indulge in sacramental acts, no other place would be more suitable. For a pilgrim as well as a common man, Madmaheshwar Temple is an apt place.

Chennakesava Temple( Belur, Karnataka )

image credit : Benjamin…B

A supreme example of Hoysala temple architecture, the Chennakeshava temple in Belur, Karnataka leaves one spellbound with its exquisite structure. The temple was constructed in 1117 AD by Hoysala king Vishnuvardhan to celebrate his victory over the Cholas at the battle of Talikad. A culmination of over hundred years of painstaking craftsmanship, the Chennakeshava temple is decorated with stories from the Puranas, the Upanishads and the epics of Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

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The worshipped deity of the temple is Chennakeshava or Vishnu and the sanctum contains a 2 m high Keshava image of touchstone. The star-shaped temple also has images of the 10 incarnations of Vishnu accompanied by those of his two wives- Bhu (earth) and Lakshmi (goddess of wealth). Friezes of charging elephants, mythological figures, military scenes, musicians, and elaborate decorative motifs adorn the walls of the Channakeshava temple.

A number of bracket figures portraying celestial nymphs or Madanikas singing, dancing or executing daily chores are sculpted on the walls of this temple. All these nimble figures are said to have been inspired by the sublime beauty of Shantala Devi, queen of Kind Vishnuvardhana. The winged figure of Garuda, Lord Vishnu’s carrier, stands at the entrance facing the temple, palms touching in homage.

Chandi Mandir ( Chandigarh )

One of the booming hotspots of India, Chandigarh encompasses a number of tourist attractions. A large number of tourists throng the capital city of Punjab and Haryana, every year, to catch a glimpse of the picturesque beauty of the place. It is located at Shivalik foothills and is immensely popular for its temples, museums, parks, gardens and sightseeing places, which are spread across the city. Talking about temples, Chandi Mandir – the temple dedicated to Chandi, the Goddess of Power – deserves special mention. Apart from the goddess, Chandi Devi Temple also encompasses the beautiful images of Radha-Krishna, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva and Lord Rama.

Chandi Mandir is popular not only because of the fact that Chandigarh derives its name from it, but also for its own legacy, which dates back many years. The temple’s location makes it even more beautiful – it provides a great view of the Shivalik hills. Hundreds of people visit the temple every year, to offer prayers to the deity. It is believed that if a person worships the Goddess Chandi with immense devotion, his/her wish would be definitely granted. Not only the devotees, but even the tourists visiting Chandigarh make it a point to pay a visit to the Chandi Devi Temple.

Chandi Mandir is well suited for excursions as well. Reaching the beautiful temple would not cost you much time or money, because it is just 15 kilometers away from the city of Chandigarh. To be precise, the temple is located on the Chandigarh – Kalka road. The stunning surroundings and magnificent interiors of the temple would make you simply awestruck and unable to leave the place, without exploring it thoroughly. The best time to visit the temple is the festive occasion of Navratri, when it is beautifully decorated and special pujas are offered to the deity.