Shivkhodi is such a supernatural and wonderful cave of Lord Shiva in which Lord Shiva resides with his entire family and it is believed that the path of this cave leads directly to heaven because there are stairs leading to heaven. Also, the other end of this cave leads directly to the Amarnath cave.
You must be well familiar with Amarnath, the world-famous abode of Lord Shiva located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, but there is another ancient and historical cave temple of Lord Shiva named Shivkhodi Dham.
The main belief of this ancient temple is that if you have the darshan of Lord Shiva and his family in this temple, then you will get rid of all the sins and reside in Shivlok in heaven.
In this cave, there is a darshan of Ardha Narishwar form of Lord, this cave temple of Lord Shiva is about 107 km away from Jammu which is situated in the Reasi district of the Jammu division and 70 km away from Katra.
In the Reasi district, there are many temples like Mata Vaishno Devi, Merhada Mata, Baba Dhansar, and Sidh Baba. According to belief, 33 crore deities praise Lord Shiva here during morning and evening aarti.
The shape of the Kamdhenu cow is made in the rock just above the Shivling, whose udder is clearly visible, from which water keeps falling drop by drop on the Shivling. It is believed that on the day of Shivratri this water becomes white like milk.
On the left side above the Shivling, the symbols of Trishul, Damru, Shankh, Chakra, and Om of Lord Vishnu and Kalia Sheshnag of Lord Krishna are clearly visible on the rocks. Moving a little further inside the Shivkhodi cave, Maa Saraswati, Maa Lakshmi, and Mahakali are seated in the form of three bodies. The feet are always filled with holy water. Devotees sprinkle water on themselves with great devotion.
There are bodies of five Pandavas on the left rock near them. There is a tunnel built near this, according to the mythological opinion, Pandavas went to heaven through this cave. There is a small self-manifested Shivling on this premises, along with which Lord Shankar is seen in a lying posture and Maa Kali’s feet are clearly visible above him.
A big cave is visible from here. It is believed that a path leads to Amarnath from here. A long time ago, two sages went to Amarnath through this cave, one of whom reached Amarnath after six months, but nothing could be found about the other monk. But now this cave has been closed from the point of view of security. It is believed that whatever wish is asked for by coming here, it definitely gets fulfilled.
Table of Contents
Shivkhodi Shiva Temple Story
Bhasmasur was burnt to ashes by Lord Shiva at Shri Shivkhodi Dham, the second largest religious place after Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in Jammu. According to the Puranas, this cave was built by Lord Shankar himself with the tip of his trident.
According to the legend, Bhasmasur pleased Lord Shiva by worshiping him, as a result of which Shiva asked him to give a boon and said that on whose head Bhasmasur If he keeps his hand, he will be consumed there.
Bhasmasur became arrogant after getting a boon from Shiva. In his arrogance, he thought of destroying Shiva himself and started chasing him. With the desire to marry mother Parvati, Bhasmasur proceeded to put his hand on Lord Shankar only. There was a fierce battle between the two, so the place where the battle took place was named Ransu, and now Ransu.
Sensing the intention of Bhasmasur, Lord Shiva came to the hills of Shivkhodi and sat in a cave. In course of time, this cave became the center of faith of people by the name of Shivkhodi.
It is believed that in order to save Lord Shankar, Shri Vishnu Ji took the form of the beautiful woman Mohini and fascinated Bhasmasur. While dancing with Vishnu in the form of Mohini, Bhasmasur forgot the boon given by Lord Shiva and burnt himself to ashes by placing his hand on his own head.
The natural cave of Shivkhodi is situated in the hills of Sangad. The way to enter the old cave is very narrow and crooked. One can go out from there only by standing or sitting. About thirteen years ago, a new cave was constructed by the Konkan Railway, so that the devotees can go inside in any way.
Shivkhodi base camp can be reached from Ransu by any vehicle from Jammu, Katra, Udhampur, or any other place. There is an easy climb of four and a half kilometers from the base camp to the cave. Apart from this, the service of horse palanquin can also be availed.
All kinds of facilities have been made available on the foot track by Shri Shivkhodi Shrine Board Ransu. Along with the arrangement of water, toilets have also been made here. Rooms have been made by making a five-storey building outside the cave. Along with this, lockers have also been arranged. Two lakh devotees come here every year on the occasion of Mahashivaratri, for which complete arrangements are made.
FAQ
1. Where is Shivkhodi Shiva Temple located?
Shivkhodi Shiva Temple is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is nestled amidst the scenic surroundings of the Trikuta Mountains.
2. What is the significance of Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
Shivkhodi Shiva Temple holds great religious significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the sacred cave where Lord Shiva manifested in the form of a lingam, attracting devotees from far and wide.
3. How can I reach Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
The nearest airport to Shivkhodi Shiva Temple is Jammu Airport, which is approximately 120 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple. The nearest railway station is Udhampur Railway Station, around 35 kilometers from the temple.
4. Is there any special time to visit Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
Shivkhodi Shiva Temple attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year. However, special religious festivals like Shivratri and Shravan month witness a significant influx of devotees. It is advisable to check the local calendar and plan your visit accordingly.
5. Are there any entry fees or tickets required to enter the temple?
No, there are no entry fees or tickets required to enter Shivkhodi Shiva Temple. It is open to all devotees, and offerings or donations are voluntary.
6. Are there any accommodation options near Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
Yes, there are accommodation options available near Shivkhodi Shiva Temple, ranging from budget guesthouses to hotels and Dharamshalas. However, it is advisable to make prior arrangements, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, to ensure availability.
7. Are there any restrictions or guidelines for devotees visiting the temple?
Yes, while visiting Shivkhodi Shiva Temple, it is important to maintain decorum and respect the sanctity of the place. Devotees are advised to follow the instructions given by temple authorities, such as removing footwear before entering the cave and adhering to the designated pathways.
8. Can photography be done inside Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
Photography and videography are allowed in the outer areas of Shivkhodi Shiva Temple. However, capturing images inside the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted to maintain the religious sanctity.
9. Are there any nearby attractions or places of interest to visit near Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
Yes, there are several attractions near Shivkhodi Shiva Temple that are worth exploring. These include the famous Vaishno Devi Temple, Reasi Fort, Baba Dhansar Temple, and Siar Baba Waterfall. These places offer a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.
10. Is there any specific dress code to be followed while visiting Shivkhodi Shiva Temple?
While there is no specific dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully while visiting Shivkhodi Shiva Temple, as it is a place of worship. Devotees generally prefer to wear traditional attire during their visit.
11. What is Katra to Shiv Khori distance?
77.5 KM
12. What is Katra to shiv khori distance by car fare?
its starts from rupees 2000 to 3000. it depends upon the car you choose.
13. How long is the shivkhodi cave?
200 Mtr
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shivkhodi Shiva Temple stands as a revered destination for devotees seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir, the temple holds immense religious significance.
The cave of Shivkhodi is believed to be the sacred spot where Lord Shiva revealed himself in the form of a lingam, drawing devotees from far and wide. The tranquil ambiance and spiritual aura of the temple create an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
Visiting Shivkhodi Shiva Temple provides an opportunity for devotees to immerse themselves in prayer and seek solace in the divine presence. The temple’s location amidst natural surroundings adds to its serene charm, offering a sense of tranquility and peace.
Travelers can reach Shivkhodi Shiva Temple by accessing nearby transportation hubs such as Jammu Airport and Udhampur Railway Station. Accommodation options are available in the vicinity to ensure a comfortable stay during the pilgrimage.
While visiting the temple, it is important to adhere to the guidelines and maintain the sanctity of the place. Respectful conduct and following the instructions of the temple authorities contribute to a harmonious and sacred experience.
Exploring the nearby attractions, such as Vaishno Devi Temple, Reasi Fort, Baba Dhansar Temple, and Siar Baba Waterfall, adds to the overall spiritual and cultural experience of the visit.
Shivkhodi Shiva Temple serves as a beacon of faith and devotion, attracting devotees who seek solace and spiritual upliftment. It stands as a testament to the timeless reverence for Lord Shiva and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Embark on a spiritual journey to Shivkhodi Shiva Temple, where devotion merges with natural beauty, and experience the blessings and serenity that await within its mystical cave.