Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra | Starting From 11 July 2022

Srikhand Mahadev is revered by Hindus as a holy site since it is believed to be one of Lord Shiva’s abodes. The Hindu temple of Shrikhand Mahadev may be found in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. For those who worship Lord Shiva, this location holds a significant amount of significance. It is known as the “Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash Yatra” when it travels. This trip takes place in the month of Sawan once every calendar year. This excursion includes a trek that is widely regarded as being among the most challenging treks in all of India. This Shivling is one of the largest Shivlings of Lord Shiva, and it stands atop the hill where it is located. Its height is around 75 feet. This particular Shivalinga can be found at a height of around 5,740 metres above mean sea level.

The Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash Yatra begins in the Himachal Pradesh town of Jaun, which is located at the mountain’s foot. From there, it is approximately a 32-kilometre walk to the peak of Shrikhand. The entire path that must be travelled on this trip is fraught with peril. This is one of the reasons why the Amarnath Yatra is regarded as the easier of the two journeys. This pilgrimage is restricted to devotees who have reached the age of 15 or are older.

During the Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra, pilgrims travel to a variety of religious sites as well as Dev Sthan. Approximately fifty metres before the arrival of Shrikhand Mahdava, statues of the deities Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Swami Karthik were also erected. Natural Shiva Caves, seven temples in Nirmand, nine goddesses including Mata Parvati in Javas, Parashurama Temple, Dakshineswar Mahadev, Hanuman Temple Arsu, Sinhagad, Jotkali, Dhankdwar, Bakasur Badh, and Kunsha are all religious places that can be found along the route.

The Legend of Shrikhand Mahadev and Kailash

There once lived a monstrous being known as Bhasmasura, if you believe the legend. By performing arduous penance, he was rewarded with a blessing from Lord Shiva, which granted him the ability to consume anybody he touched. After that, he fell into immorality and entertained thoughts of wedlock with the goddess Parvati. He also desired to bring about their destruction by placing his hands on Lord Shiva. When Lord Vishnu assumed the avatar of Mohini, he successfully convinced Bhasmasura to join him in dance. Bhasmasura was dancing when he placed his hands on his own head, which resulted in him being consumed. Because of this, the soil and water in this area continue to have a crimson colour even today.

Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash Yatra

The trek begins at Jaun, and after walking for three kilometres, pilgrims arrive in Singhad. Singhad is the first base camp along the route, and it is here that the pilgrims are provided with food and other services. Following that, there is a difficult ascent of twelve kilometres leading up to Thachuru, which is also referred to as Dandi-Dhar.

After Thakuru, there is another base camp called Thakuru, which provides both food and tents for its guests. The first part of the journey consists of a three-kilometre ascent to Kalighati, which is widely held to be the residence of Goddess Kali. From this vantage point, one might be able to glimpse the Shrikhand Mahadev Shivling in the event that the sky is clear. From Kalighati in the direction of Bhima Talai, there is a stretch that declines in altitude by one kilometre.

After leaving Bhima Talai, you will arrive in the Kunsa Valley. After travelling another 3 kilometres from here, you will arrive at the next base camp, which is Bhim Dawar. Here, you will find all of the standard amenities. Just two kilometres further on is another base camp known as Parvati Bagh. It is claimed that Mata Parvati was responsible for planting this garden. Flowers such as the Brahma Kamal, often referred to as Saussurea obvallata, can be found in the garden.

It is thought that this is where the elephant head that adorns Lord Ganesha was installed. The next location is Nain Sarvor, which is located 2 kilometres away from there. Afterwards, proceed through some rugged terrain to reach Shrikhand Mahadev, located at the height of around 3 kilometres.