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Uttaranchal Jyotirmath Temple
Jyotirmath or Joshimath is a Math or a monastery situated in the hilly town of Joshimath located in Chamoli district of Garhwal region in Uttaranchal, Northern India. Jyotirmath is considered to be one among the four Maths or monasteries set up by Shri Adi Shankaracharya. Hence, it is also known as the Shankaracharya Math. This math is placed at an elevation of 6150 ft amidst the great mountains of Himalaya. It is believed that Adi Guru Shankaracharya had attained enlightenment in this holy place of Joshimath. There is a sacred cave located in this site where he supposedly undertook his Tapasya. Adi Shankaracharya is believed to attain enlightenment under a 2500 years old Mulberry tree, known as Kalpavriksha located near the cave. The math has temple of Lord Badrinarayan and Rajrajeshwari Devi inside it. According to Mythologies, it is believed to be one of the 108 Divya Deshams of Lord Vishnu. Jyotirmath known as the temple of light and wisdom is the one and only Hindu math in Northern India.
History
Jyotirmath is also known as the Northern monastery in the first four cardinal institutions set up by Shri Adi Shankaracharya and his appointees in 8th century. It is a belief that Adi Guru had attained enlightenment in the sacred cave under the Kalpavriksha located in this place. His famous Shankar Bhasya had been written inside this holy cave. After the expiration of Brahmananda in 1953 many gurus and disciples have been appointed who claim to be its rightful occupant.
How To Reach
By Air
For the pilgrims travelling by air the nearby airport to Joshimath is the Jolly Grant Airport that is 293 km away from Dehradun.
By Rail
Rishikesh is the closest railway station. It is located at a distance of 253 kms away from the town. Many major cities are connected by the Rishikesh Railway Station. Haridwar situated 24 km away from Rishikesh is another railway junction which has connecting trains to other important cities.
By Road
There is a very good network of roads connecting Joshimath to other parts of the country. The National Highway NH58 passes through Joshimath. Hence, all pilgrim vehicles going from New Delhi to Badrinath runs across Joshimath in summer season. Regular bus service is also available from Rishikesh to Joshimath.
Important Shrines
Lord Badrinath or Badri Vishal is the chief deity of the temple. Lord Badrinath along with Rajrajeshwari Devi is worshipped in a temple inside the math. There are also other temples of Lord Narsimha and Lord Basu Dev who are the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. There is a sphatik or crystal Shivlingam inside the cave that Adi Shankaracharya himself brought from Kailash.
Significance Of The Temple
Jyotirmath holds a highly significant position in history because of its role in Vedic revivalism. The early father of Hinduism, Shri Adi Shankaracharya had founded this ancient math as one of his four cardinal institutions. It is the first among the four religious peeths established by Adi guru, namely Jyotirmath, Dwarka, Puri and Rameshwaram. This math is also believed to be the place where he got enlightenment and composed the famous Shankar Bhasya.
Weather And Time To Visit
The climatic conditions of Jyotirmath are generally very cold. In fact, it is considered as the winter home of Lord Badrinath. During the journey to Jyotirmath pilgrims may experience abrupt changes in the temperature. Heavy rainfall may occur at any time of the year. Sudden snowfall also takes place during the month of winter and the temperature may fall up to an intense limit.
Accomodation
Good accommodation services are available in Joshimath for the lodging of the pilgrims. Some of the best accommodations of Joshimath are listed below:
- The Chardham Camp Badrinath with Swiss cottage tents has good arrangements of accommodation
- Narayan Palace is a highly comfortable and luxurious place to stay
- Sarovar Portico set amidst excellent location gives reasonable service
- Hotel Dronagiri is one of the best and affordable hotels near Joshimath
- Hotel Mountain View offers high quality accommodation in an affordable rate
Tips For Devotees
Jyotirmath is located at an elevation of 6150 ft. Hence it may involve a little of trekking. So, devotees should be physically fit while starting to visit the temple.
- Being situated at a high altitude amidst the Himalayas temperature falls suddenly and heavy rain or snow may be experienced. In the winter season the weather can be severe and adverse. Hence, the pilgrims should be well prepared with their essential belongings.
Rules And Rituals Of The Temple
The rules of Jyotirmath or Joshimath are very strict and carefully maintained. Holiness and sanctity of the temple premise is very strictly maintained. The devotional aspects of Hinduism are carefully maintained in the temple. Pure Vedic rituals are followed inside the temple while worshiping the several deities presiding there. Lord Badrinath, the presiding deity is worshipped with full respect and devotion.
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