Uttarakhand is steeped in mythology and spirituality, with numerous temples and sacred sites dotting its landscape. Triyuginarayan Temple is one such revered place, deeply associated with Hindu mythology and the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Triyuginarayan Temple is located in the Triyuginarayan village in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, India. The Triyuginarayan Temple is located at an altitude of 1,980 metres about 5 kilometres away from Sonprayag, the confluence of Mandakini and Songanga rivers This ancient temple is dedicated to god Vishnu. Its fame is credited to the legend of god Shiva’s marriage to goddess Parvati witnessed by Vishnu at this place. A perpetual fire, burns in front of the temple which is believed to burn from the times of the divine marriage. The temple is also known as Akhand Dhuni temple.
Legend
Goddess Sati, the first wife of Lord Shiva, immolated herself in the fire of her father Daksha’s yajna (sacrificial fire) due to the disrespect shown by him towards Lord Shiva. This act devastated Shiva, and he withdrew into deep meditation and asceticism. Sati was reborn as Parvati, the daughter of Himavat (the king of the mountains) and Mena. Parvati grew up with the desire to marry Lord Shiv. Parvati undertook intense penance at Gaurikund, which is located about 5 km away from Triyuginarayan. She sought to win Shiva’s heart through her devotion and austerities. Shiva was pleased with Parvati’s devotion and agreed to marry her. It is said that Shiva proposed to Parvati at Guptakashi, a significant pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand. The divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati took place at Triyuginarayan. The marriage was witnessed by Lord Vishnu at this place. The exact spot of their marriage is marked by the eternal flame (Akhand Dhuni) that burns at Triyuuginarayan Temple.
Significance
Triyuginarayan Temple is revered as the holy site where the divine union of Shiva and Parvati occurred. The name “Triyuginarayan” signifies that the temple exists since three yugas (eras) . Pilgrims who visit this temple consider the ashes from the burning fire as holy and carry it with them. It is believed that ashes from this fire are supposed to promote conjugal bliss. There are three kund namely Rudra-kund, Vishnu-kund and Brahma-kund in the premises of the temple. It is believed that the inflow into the three kunds is from the Saraswati kund. Rudra Kund is for bathing, Vishnu kund for cleansing, Brahma kund for sipping. Pligrims sprinkle water from these three kunds on themselves before proceeding for Pooja.
In front of the temple, the havana-kund with the eternal flame, the witness of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati is situated. Devotees add samidha (sacrificial offerings of wood) to the flame and collect the ashes as blessings. A stone called the Brahma Shila located in front of temple – is regarded as the exact spot of the divine marriage. Pilgrims renews their vows of marriage. Some come here for marriage also.
The Triyuginarayan temple resembles the temple of Kedarnath in architectural style. It is believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya. The shrine houses a silver, 2-foot image of god Vishnu (Narayana), accompanied with goddess Lakshmi and the goddess Saraswati.
Access
Access to the Triyuginarayan village where the temple is located is about 12 kilometres from Sonprayag on motorable road till the temple. The nearest airport is Dehra Dun, 244 kilometres from Triyuginarayan. Rishikesh is the nearest railway station, 261 kilometres from the site.
This blog is based on the recent visit made to this place in the month of June 2024.The information provided in this article is based on the author’s personal visit to TriyugiNarayan temple and research from various sources. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, changes in the conditions, accessibility, and local guidelines may occur. Visitors are advised to check the latest travel advisories, road conditions, and local regulations before planning their trip. The author and publisher are not responsible for any inconvenience or loss incurred while following the information provided in this article. Always prioritize safety and consult with local authorities or guides when traveling to remote or religious destinations.
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Wow! A lovely read! There are so many things to explore. The lesser known places or things are ignored. Thanks for sharing and keep it going! All the best!
Very useful information…….👍
Nice information for pilgrims