Bairaskund Mahadev Temple - The sacred land of Ravana's penance

thedivineindia.com | Updated UTC time: 2025-11-23 22:28:32

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Important information

Address: Matai - Bairaskund Rd, Khaltara, Kwirali, Uttarakhand 246449.
Timings: Open 05:00 am and close 09:00 pm.
By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Delhi or Dehradun to Nandprayag. From Nandprayag, take a taxi to Bairaskund Mahadev via Kandal Bridge. Route: Karnaprayag – Nandprayag – Vikasnagar Ghat – Kandal Bridge – Bairaskund Mahadev Temple. The total distance is approximately 250-300 km.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. Take a bus or taxi from Rishikesh to Nandprayag, then proceed to Bairaskund.
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport, 214 km from Nandprayag. Taxis are readily available from the airport.

Countless ancient temples are scattered across the Devbhoomi of Uttarakhand, symbolizing faith and spirituality. One such temple is the Bairaskund Mahadev Temple, located in the Bairaskund village of Chamoli district. This temple is known not only for its antiquity but also holds special significance due to an interesting story from Hindu mythology. Ravana performed rigorous penance to Lord Shiva here, making this place even more sacred. If you are a devotee of Lord Shiva or are interested in religious pilgrimages in Uttarakhand, Bairaskund Mahadev is a must-visit.

Location and Significance

The Bairaskund Mahadev Temple is located near Nandprayag in Chamoli district. It is situated near the Kandal Bridge on the Badrinath route, offering a peaceful atmosphere on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most popular ancient temples in Uttarakhand. The serenity and natural beauty here mesmerize visitors. There are several other ancient temples in the Bairaskund area, establishing this place as a religious center.

Mythological History

According to Hindu mythology, Ravana, the king of Lanka, worshipped Lord Shiva at Bairaskund Mahadev. Legend has it that Ravana performed long penances standing on one leg, and Lord Shiva, pleased with him, granted him a boon. This incident is linked to the Ramayana, and the temple is known as the site of Ravana's penance. The temple's ancient structure bears testimony to its historicity, preserving centuries-old traditions.

Be mindful of the hilly terrain during your visit and prepare accordingly for the weather.

Worship and Celebrations

The temple's worship tradition is ancient and vibrant. The chief priest, Nepali Maharaj, begins the puja every day at 4 a.m. He offers water to Lord Shiva, and the puja continues until 12 noon. Residents of nearby villages visit regularly for darshan. Various religious rituals are held throughout the year.

Especially on Mahashivratri, the temple committee organizes a grand religious fair, drawing devotees from various regions. This fair is a unique confluence of faith, devotion, and cultural events.

Nearby Attractions

Being close to Nandprayag, Bairasakund Mahadev is connected to many other tourist destinations. From here, you can travel to Badrinath Dham, Karnaprayag, and the banks of the Alaknanda River. The Nandeshwar Temple and Sangam View in Nandprayag are also worth visiting. Nature lovers can enjoy trekking and riverside walks.

Finally,
Bairaskund Mahadev Temple is not only a center of religious faith but also a symbol of Uttarakhand's rich cultural heritage. Visiting here, you can experience peace, devotion, and the beauty of nature. If you're planning a trip to Uttarakhand, include this ancient temple on your list. Jai Bholenath!