Patal Bhuvneshwar Caves Temple
Discovering the Gateway to the Underworld
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TEMPLE
Facts to Remember
Starting Point
Gangolihat, Pithoragarh Dist., Uttarakhand
Duration
1 Day Darshan
Difficulty
Easy - Moderate
Max. Altitude
Approx. 4,430 ft
Best time to travel
Sep to June
Total Distance
Approx. 200 km from Haldwani
ABOUT THE TEMPLE
Introducing the Divine
Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a hidden gem of religious significance and exquisite beauty tucked away in the picturesque hills of Pithoragarh district in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. This mystical cave temple complex (a series of multiple caves) is shrouded in legends and mysteries, drawing people from far and wide.
Join us on a captivating journey as we explore Patal Bhuvaneshwar's depths and reveal its mysterious mysteries.
ORIGINS AND LEGENDS
Unraveling the Mythology
Patal Bhuvaneshwar, which translates to "the abode of Lord of the Underworld," is believed to be the sacred dwelling place of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, this ancient cave complex is said to be the gateway to Patal Lok, the netherworld, where Lord Shiva resides along with around thirty-three crore demigods.
Tales of Gods and Demons
The legends surrounding Patal Bhuvaneshwar are as captivating as the cave itself, weaving tales of gods and demons, heroes and sages. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva once revealed the secrets of creation and existence to Lord Vishnu in the depths of Patal Bhuvaneshwar. The cave is also associated with the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana sought refuge during their exile.
Discovery of the caves
As per the legend Queen Damayanti, the husband of King Nal, once defeated him. Due to the fear of prison time, Nala asked King Ritupurna to hide him. Ritupurna hid him in the Himalayan forest - Uttarakhand of today. On his return journey, he stumbled to a cave where a guard was waiting for him. He was permitted to enter the cave after asking questions. Ritupurna encountered Sheshnag at the entrance, and he consented to lead him carrying him on its hood through the cave. He saw all 33 Crores gods and goddesses, including Lord Shiva inside the cave.
According to legend, the cave was shut down following his visit. As per the prophecy in Skanda Purana, it would be reopened during the Kali Yuga which was fulfilled when Adi Shankaracharya rediscovered this cave during his visit to Uttarakhand Himalayas.
ARCHITECTURE AND RITUALS OF THE TEMPLE
Enchanting Moments
Architecture of Patal Bhuvneshwar Caves
The geological formation of Patal Bhuvaneshwar dates back millions of years, shaped by the forces of nature and the passage of time. Carved out of limestone rocks by the continuous flow of underground streams, the cave system boasts intricate stalactites and stalagmites, captivating formations that evoke a sense of wonder and awe. Each chamber of the cave tells a story of geological evolution, a testament to the Earth's ancient past.
Exploring the Depths
As we venture deeper into the labyrinthine passages of Patal Bhuvaneshwar, we encounter a series of caverns and chambers adorned with natural rock formations and sacred shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the revered lingam of Lord Shiva, a symbol of divine energy and cosmic consciousness. Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings in this sacred space, believing in the transformative power of their faith.
For centuries, Patal Bhuvaneshwar has been a place of pilgrimage and spiritual retreat, attracting devotees and ascetics in search of divine enlightenment and inner peace. The tranquil ambience of the cave, coupled with the mystical energy that permeates its walls, creates a conducive environment for meditation and introspection. Pilgrims undertake the arduous journey to Patal Bhuvaneshwar to pay homage to Lord Shiva and seek his divine blessings.
LOCATION, VIEWS AND AMBIENCE
Where faith meets Majesty
It is located in the village of Bhubneshwar around 15 km from Gangolihat, Pithoragarh. From the entrance, the cave is approximately 160 meters long and 90 feet deep. There are several other electrically illuminated caves accessible from the entrance of the main cave. And, as it is now known, Patal Bhuvneshwar caves are formed due to the flow of water for centuries in the past.
Ecological Importance: Biodiversity and Conservation
Beyond its spiritual significance, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is also a haven for biodiversity, harbouring a diverse range of flora and fauna within its subterranean ecosystem. The cave provides a sanctuary for unique species of insects, bats, and other cave-dwelling organisms, contributing to the ecological diversity of the region. Conservation efforts are underway to preserve the delicate balance of this fragile ecosystem and ensure its protection for future generations.
HOW TO REACH & CLIMATE CONDITIONS
Undertaking the journey of Discovery
How to Reach Patal Bhuvneshwar Caves Temple
Patal Bhuvneshwar Temple can be reached via Gangolihat. Pithoragrah is the district headquarters and the biggest town nearby.
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport and the closest railway station is Kathgodam.
Weather Conditions at Patal Bhuvneshwar Temple
Gangolihat encounters dry and somewhat hot summers while winters are very cold and foggy.
TEMPLE TRAVEL GUIDEBOOK
Detailed Information
Private Transport
You can directly reach Haat Kalika temple by road through private transport via the following routes:
Dehradun - Srinagar - Karnaprayag - Gwaldam - Bageshwar - Berinag - Gangolihat - Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple - Approx. 397 km
Dehradun - Haridwar - Kashipur - Rudrapur - Champawat - Gangolihat - Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple - Approx. 506 km
Haldwani - Kathgodam - Bhimtal - Dhauladevi - Gangolihat - Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple - Approx. 205 km
Haldwani - Kathgodam - Bhimtal - Almora - Raigar - Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple - Approx. 197 km
Delhi - Moradabad - Rudrapur - Champawat - Lohaghat - Gangolihat - Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple - Approx. 519 km
Public Transport - Shared Taxis are available from Gangolihat to Patal Bhuvneshwar Caves.
You can avail a direct bus to Gangolihat from Haldwani, Pithoragarh or Almora.
You can avail a sharing taxi to Gangolihat from Almora, Berinag or Pithoragarh.
You can directly hire a local taxi from Haldwani or Pithoragarh to Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple.
Important note: The frequency of public transport to Gangolihat is low.
By Road
The nearest Inter State Bus Station (ISBT) is in Pithoragarh.
Distance between Gangolihat & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 13 Km
Distance between Pithoragarh & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 90 Km
Distance between Almora & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 110 Km
Distance between Kathgodam & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 190 Km
Distance between Haldwani & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 197 Km
Distance between Pantnagar & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 271 Km
Distance between Dehradun & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 397 Km
Distance between Delhi & Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: Approx. 532 Km
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam. From there you can either take a bus or hire a local taxi to Gangolihat.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport. You can reach Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple directly by hiring a local taxi from the airport or reach Haldwani & take a direct bus.
DID YOU KNOW THESE INTERESTING FACTS?
Tales of the Temple
Hidden Treasures: Patal Bhuvneshwar is believed to be one of the 18 Siddha Peethas, ancient sites of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, the cave system contains hidden treasures, including invaluable gems and divine artifacts, concealed within its depths.
Eternal Flame: One of the most intriguing features of Patal Bhuvneshwar is the presence of a perennial flame known as the Akhand Jyoti, which is said to have been burning continuously for centuries, symbolizing the eternal presence of divine energy.
Sage Vyas's Revelation: According to Hindu mythology, Sage Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata, is believed to have meditated in the caves of Patal Bhuvneshwar, receiving divine revelations and spiritual insights that he later imparted to humanity through his epic writings.
Healing Waters: The underground streams that flow through Patal Bhuvneshwar are believed to possess curative properties, with devotees often bathing in these sacred waters to seek relief from ailments and spiritual purification.
Sacred Shrines: Explore the intricately carved shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and other Hindu deities, adorned with exquisite sculptures and offerings.
Natural Formations: Marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cavernous chambers, forming intricate patterns and shapes that evoke a sense of awe and wonder.
TEMPLE ROUTE
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up from Delhi or Haldwani, Arrival in Gangolihat
Day 2: Patal Bhuvneshwar Caves Darshan
Day 3: Departure to Delhi or Haldwani