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Anegadangavatanathar Temple

Gauri Kund, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, serves as the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand, India. Located at an altitude of 6,502 feet above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas, it is renowned for its natural hot springs, which have been converted into bathing areas. Pilgrims on the Chardham Yatra often stop here to take a holy dip in its sacred waters. The site is named after Goddess Parvati, also known as Gauri, and features a temple dedicated to her. According to legend, it is the place where Parvati meditated to win the love of Lord Shiva. Situated on the route between Rishikesh and Kedarnath, Gauri Kund marks the starting point of the 17-kilometer trek to Kedarnath Temple, a journey of great spiritual significance for devotees.

Timings

The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Entry Fee

Free of charge

This temple, located at Gaurikund at the base of Kedarnath, is known as Anekathangapatham. Situated near the hot springs, the water is ingeniously channeled to flow through the mouth of a bull's head. It is believed that Goddess Parvati (Ambal) performed penance here to win Lord Shiva. The temple also features shrines for Suriyan (Sun) and Chandran (Moon), who are said to have worshiped Lord Shiva at this sacred site.


Legends of Gauri Kund :



  1. Parvati's Penance: Gauri Kund is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati performed penance to win Lord Shiva's love. Shiva accepted her affection here, and they were later married at Triyugi Narayan nearby.
  2. Birth of Ganesha: Parvati created Ganesha from soap suds while bathing in the Kund. When Shiva arrived and was stopped by Ganesha, he severed the boy’s head in anger but later replaced it with an elephant's head, bringing Ganesha back to life.
  3. Parvati’s Bath: It is said that Parvati bathed in the hot springs at Gauri Kund after giving birth to Lord Kartikeya.
  4. Agnikund: The sacred fire from their wedding is believed to still burn at the nearby Agnikund.
  5. Worship of Shiva: Surya (Sun) and Chandra (Moon) are also said to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this holy site.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Respect Sacred Spaces: Maintain silence and show reverence while in and around the temple.
  2. Offer Prayers and Pujas: Participate in rituals and offer flowers, fruits, or other appropriate offerings.
  3. Keep the Area Clean: Dispose of waste responsibly and keep the temple premises clean.
  1. Avoid Loud Behavior: Refrain from making noise or causing disturbances.
  2. No Photography: Avoid taking photographs inside the temple unless permitted.
  3. Do Not Disrespect the Deities: Do not touch the idols or sacred areas without permission.

Dress Code

For Men : Men are advised to wear traditional attire like dhotis or simple clothing that covers the body respectfully.

For Women : Women should wear modest attire, such as sarees or salwar kameez, covering their shoulders and legs.

How to reach

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Best time to visit :

The best time to visit Gaurikund Temple is between May and November, when the weather is pleasant and favorable for pilgrimage.


By Air: The nearest airport to Gaurikund is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located approximately 225 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a private vehicle to reach Gaurikund.

By Rail: The closest railway stations to Gaurikund are Rishikesh Railway Station (209 km) and Haridwar Railway Station (234 km). From either station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund.

By Road: Gaurikund is well-connected by road to several major spots in Uttarakhand. From Rishikesh Bus Station the temple is 212 km.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers Around the Temple :

  1. Mandakini River : The Gauri Kund Lake is located on the banks of the Mandakini River, which is an important river in the Kedarnath region. The river flows through the scenic landscapes of Uttarakhand, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the area.


Cities Around the Temple :

  1. Kedarnath : The Kedarnath Temple, situated 16 km from Gauri Kund, is one of the holiest shrines of Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. It lies at an altitude of 3,584 meters above sea level.
  2. Sonprayag : Sonprayag, located 4 km before Gauri Kund, is a beautiful town in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It serves as an important stop for pilgrims on their way to Kedarnath and Gauri Kund.
  3. Triyuginarayan : The Triyuginarayan Temple, situated in the Rudraprayag district, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati. It is believed to be the site of the divine marriage between Lord Shiva and Parvati, making it a significant pilgrimage site.