The inaccessible and holy site of Uttarakhand, Shrikhand Mahadev Dham, is considered one in Panch Kailash. Every year in the month of July, devotees leave for a difficult journey here, which is organized by the Srikhand Mahadev Trust. This journey is started only after registration and medical examination like a visit to Kailash Mansarovar. The visit of Shrikhand Mahadev is one of the most challenging and difficult pilgrimage in India.
Inaccessible travel and difficulties
The Srikhand Mahadev Yatra begins especially during the rainy season, causing pilgrims to face many difficulties on the way. The journey is to walk about 35 kilometers, in which many times there is also a lack of oxygen due to snow -capped paths and height. There are many waterfalls and dangerous areas on the way, which is extremely difficult for pilgrims to cross. This journey is considered more difficult than the Amarnath Yatra, as the height of Amarnath is 14,000 feet while the height of Shrikhand Mahadev is about 18,570 feet.
Major stops of travel
The Srikhand Mahadev Yatra begins from Jaan village, where the temple of Mata Parvati is located. After this, the pilgrims get to visit the holy site like Parashuram Temple, Dakshineshwar Mahadev Temple, Hanuman Temple, Jotakali, Bakasur Slaughter, Dhak Gate, Bhima Dwar and Nain Sarovar.
Especially the covered door has its own religious significance. It is said that here Lord Shiva had imposed samadhi to avoid Bhasmasura. It is also believed at the Bhima gate that Bhima did penance here among the Pandavas and his footprints can still be seen.
Mythology related to Shrikhand Mahadev
According to an ancient legend, an asura named Bhasmasura did harsh penance to please Lord Shiva. Shiva gave him a boon that whoever puts his hand on his head will be consumed. While misusing this groom, Bhasmasura attacked the gods, but eventually Lord Vishnu took the form of a siren and engaged him in the dance and he was consumed by placing his hand on his head.
It is said that after this incident, Bhasmasura ended near Shrikhand Mahadev, so the soil and water here look red in color.
Religious importance of nan lake
Nain Sarovar arrives about 3 kilometers before the visit of Shrikhand Mahadev. It is believed that when Lord Shiva was hiding in samadhi from Bhasmasura, Mata Parvati cried in her anxiety and became a Nain lake with her tears. This lake is a sacred place for pilgrims.
Pandavas’ relationship with Shrikhand
The Pandavas are also closely associated with Shrikhand Mahadev. It is said that the Pandavas resided here during exile. Bhima did penance to please Lord Shiva. His cave and footprints are still present at Bhima gate.
conclusion
The Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra is not only a symbol of religious faith, but it is also a test of patience and courage of pilgrims. The mythology, natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere here make it a specific pilgrimage site. If you want to experience a difficult but spiritual journey, then the journey of Shrikhand Mahadev Dham will prove to be a precious experience for you.
