Madmaheshwar Temple, one of the Panch Kedar temples, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Mansoona village of Garhwal in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is the fourth temple to be visited in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, comprising five Shiva temples in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Madmaheshwar Temple holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed to be the place where the middle (navel) part of Lord Shiva appeared. It is an important shrine for Hindu pilgrims and one of the five temples constituting the Panch Kedar pilgrimage.
The temple is situated at an elevation of 3,289 meters (10,794 feet) above sea level in the Mansoona village of Garhwal, close to Chopta in Uttarakhand, India. It's set against the backdrop of the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Tourists can reach Madmaheshwar Temple by first traveling to Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun by train, bus, or air, and then taking a road journey to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath, a trek to Madmaheshwar commences, covering approximately 16 kilometers one way through scenic mountainous terrain.
The ideal time to visit Madmaheshwar Temple is from May to June before the monsoon and after the rainy season from September to October. The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold.
Yes, there are basic accommodation options such as guesthouses, dharamshalas, and ashrams available near the Madmaheshwar Temple. Pilgrims can also pitch their own tents. However, the facilities are quite rudimentary and cater to the basic needs.
Hiring a guide is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for those unfamiliar with high altitude trekking or the local terrain. A guide can ensure a safer and more informative trekking experience.
Tourists should carry warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, water bottles, snacks, a first-aid kit, a raincoat, and personal medication. It is also advisable to carry a good quality tent and sleeping bag if you plan to camp.
Generally, no special permits are required for Indian nationals to trek to Madmaheshwar Temple. However, all tourists should carry valid photo identification. International tourists should check with local authorities if there are any additional requirements.
Visitors should dress modestly as it is a place of worship, and it's considered respectful to avoid wearing revealing clothes. Furthermore, it is customary to remove shoes before entering the temple premises. Follow the local customs and listen to the temple priests' instructions during rituals and offerings.
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