Alakhnath Mandir - अलखनाथ मंदिर

Alakhnath Mandir is a renowned and historic Hindu temple located in the city of Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. The temple belongs to the Nath sect (who are worshippers of Bhagwan Shiva) and is dedicated to Baba Alakhnath, who is considered a form of Bhagwan Shiva. Temple also known as Shree Baba Alakhnath Mandir. This is a major Shiva pilgrimage site, which is the main center of faith of Naga Sadhus. Alakhnath Mandir is a confluence of divine faith, spiritual power and historical glory of the temple.

History of Alakhnath Mandir
This temple is the main place of Anand Akhara, Dashnam where the headquarters of Naga Sadhus is located and is one of the four Nath temples located in the four corners of Bareilly.

According to the legend, Saint Alakhiya Baba (Alakh Giri) discovered a self-manifested Shivalinga during his meditation under a Banyan tree, based on which this temple was established around 930‑1000 years ago. The history of the temple and the place of worship suggest that the grandeur and antiquity of the temple is believed to be at least 6000 years old. There is a 51-feet-high statue of Hanumanji in the temple complex. There are many places of worship in the complex, including Shiva, Surya, Panchmukhi Hanuman, Navgraha, Shanidev, etc.

It is also believed that the Pandavas worshipped Bhagwan Shiva, which makes this place even more sacred. The complex also houses a Banyan tree (believed to be about 3200 years old) and a floating stone resembling Ram Setu, which is a centre of devotion for the devotees.

Alakhnath Mandir Darshan Timings
Alakhnath Temple is open 24 hours, regular Darshan facility is available from 6 am to 12 noon and from 4 pm to 9 pm.

Major Festivals of Alakhnath Mandir
Special Pujas and decorations are organized on Mahashivratri, Sawan and other Shiva festivals, the temple is lit up with religious idols and lights. Especially during the Kanwar Yatra on Shravan Somvar, there is a huge crowd of devotees in the temple, devotees come with Ganga water for Jalabhishek.

How to reach Alakhnath Mandir?
Alakhnath Mandir is in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is easily accessible by road. It is located on Bagrili main road (State Highway 37), Phool Bagh area, near Qila Cantonment. The nearest railway station is Bareilly Junction from where the Mandir is about 3–5 km.