Maha Mrityunjaya Temple in Haridwar
Haridwar is the land of temples, mystical magic and holy place of worship. The entire region is dotted by various temples dedicated to several gods and goddesses that welcome devotees from all over the world. One such temple is the Shree Maha Mrityunjaya Temple in Haridwar. Dedicated to Lord Shiva the term Mrityunjaya is made up of 3 words that translate into Mrityu meaning death and Jaya meaning victory that combines to make up the term victory over death. The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is known for being extremely powerful and significant for Hindu believers. A visit to the temple is considered to be extremely holy and removes the evil effects and grants moksha in life by Lord Shiva.
About Mahamrityunjaya Temple
Lord Shiva is considered as the saviour and the redeemer of all his devotees and delivers them from death while also granting them moksha or complete liberation. This temple of Lord Shiva in Haridwar faces in an eastern direction, or in the direction of the rising son. The Shiva Linga worshipped in the Garbha Griha of the temple has a unique eye shaped opening which makes it one of a kind as this kind of a Shiv Linga is not present anywhere in India. It is widely believed that chanting or reciting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra will enable self-realisation and effectively remove all sorts of evil effects.
Architecture
The temple of Maha Mrityunjaya is a place that evokes a feeling of deep-seated power and calmness. Built using the traditional North Indian Nagara style of architecture, the colours and design stays true to the culture. The ceiling is supported by finely carved out pillars with the main entrance or the assembly hall being accessible via a number of neatly made stairs. The temple complex is blessed and adorned with a lush green cover, trees and scenic beauty all around. Upon entering (which is free for all) the devotees will be guided into the main complex area which is very spacious and beautifully landscaped. The temple complex is very well-maintained and neatly kept.
Temple Timing
The temple timings for the Maha Mrityunjaya Temple is from 4:30 am to 12 pm and from 1 pm to 7 pm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Maha Mrityunjaya Temple is from February to March and then from September to November. Avoid travelling on the hills during the monsoon months of June to August. This is considered to be an unsafe time of the year since the roads are susceptible for landslide and flash flooding situations. Even while travelling during the summer months remember to always carry some light warm or winter clothing items as it may get kind of chilly during the night.
How to Reach
The Maha Mrityunjaya Temple of Haridwar is located in the Bhagirathi Nagar of the region. The temple is just 3 kms away from Har Ki Pauri which makes it easily accessible for everyone. You can walk or take an auto-rickshaw or your car, or any other vehicle there. The nearest railway station to the temple is the Haridwar railway station which is located just 5 kms away from the main temple complex. The nearest airport is situated 35 kms away from the temple at the Jolly Grant airport and one can easily get a cab or hire a taxi service to reach the temple easily. If you are in Rishikesh, then a day visit to the temple can be easily made as it is just 28 kms away by road.
Travel Tips
Being a temple and a holy place of worship, remember to wear decent clothing that won’t be offensive to the local population.
If you wish to spend more time here in peace then make sure to visit the temple early in the morning, preferably during the time of its opening.
In order to have the best experience make sure to plan a visit to Maha Mrityunjaya Temple during the time of some festival.
Remember to pack the right kind of clothing no matter what time of the year you are travelling.
