Bankhandi Nath Temple, also known as Baba Bankhandi Nath Temple, is an ancient Shiva temple located in Bareilly (Joginwada area). Bhagwan Shiva is worshipped in the form of Nath. This temple is believed to be associated with the Dwapar era of Mahabharata and was built by Pandavas' wife Draupadi by installing a Shivalinga. It is believed that the wishes of the devotees are fulfilled here.
History and Importance of Bankhandi Nath Temple
According to mythology, this temple is believed to be associated with the Dwapar era, where Draupadi herself established the Shivalinga. For this reason, it is considered a very sacred place. Many saints had performed intense penance here and the samadhi sthals of many are still present in the temple premises. Dashnam Juna Akhara takes care of the temple.
The name \"Bankhandi\" is derived from the word Vankhand (forest + broken) - it is said that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb tried to destroy the temple, but the Shivalinga did not even budge. This temple is one of the seven Nath temples in Bareilly, which makes the city special with the name of Nath Nagari. Devotees believe that the Shivling here is self-manifested and strange events like color change are also seen there. Some sources state that the colour of the Shivalinga changes three times a day.
Located in the old town area of Joginwada, the temple complex houses the main Shiva temple apart from several smaller statues, Shivalingas and a large pond with 108 Shivalingas carved around it. A huge statue of Hanuman Ji (about 51 feet) is installed on the outside of the temple complex.
Bankhandi Nath Temple Darshan Timings
Bankhandi Nath Temple is open for darshan throughout the day. During the month of Sawan and Shivratri, a large number of devotees come to the temple for Jalabhishek and Puja. On these occasions, there is a scene of queues of devotees and Kavad Yatra in the temple premises.
Main festival of Bankhandi Nath temple
Shivaratri and Sawan Somvar are the main festivals of this temple. And during other Shiva festivals the atmosphere here is extremely devotional.
How to reach Bankhandi Nath Temple:
Bankhandi Nath Temple, Joginwada area in Bareilly is well connected to major cities of Uttar Pradesh and other states through national and state highways. Bareilly Junction is the nearest railway station. Since the temple is located in the old city area, you may have to park your vehicle some distance away.
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