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Uttar Pradesh Tilbhandeshwar Shiva Temple
One of the oldest temples in Varanasi, is the Tilbhandeshwar Temple situated near Bengal Tola Inter College and the most well-known weaver's colony, Madanpura. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
It is believed that the Shiva Lingam in this temple has come about on its own several years ago and is known as 'Shvambhu'. Devotees offer water to the Lingam and meditate at the feet of the Lord. Devotees experience the Supreme Power of the Lord at this temple.
This temple is unique in one way: it combines the cultures of Varanasi with Kerala in this temple. Hindu devotees here celebrate not just Shravan, Dussehra and Diwali, Mahashivratri and Makar Sankrantri but also Onam and perform Ayyappa Puja.
Other Hindu deities in this temple include Bhairav, Lord Ayappa, Maa Parvati and Vibhandeshwar. Devotees believe that Mata Sharda, the Goddess of Enlightenment, spent some time in Varanasi at the Tilbhandeshwar Temple.
The tranquil and pristine environment of Varanasi is perfect for praying to the Lord here.
Anyone worshipping at this temple will find that most part of this temple is painted in a bright orange. It has a large central hall. The holy shrine done up in magnificent architectural splendor has intricately carved doorways and large balconies.
Devotees are allowed to enter the sanctorum in the morning and perform pooja and abhishekh and touch the lingam. Devotees are encouraged to visit this temple when making a pilgrimage to Varanasi.
History
One of the most spiritual cities of India, Varanasi, is home to this Shiva temple. Not only do people believe that the Shiva Lingam originated by some miracle on its own, but also that it grows by a few inches every year.
They took this to be a divine portent and performed a series of poojas and sacrifices to appease Lord Shiva and to seek His help to restrain the growing Lingam. Hence, the temple got its name, Tilbhandeshwar Lingam.
A mention of the Shiv Lingam is made in the Shri Shiv Puran. At present, the Shiv Lingam that is visible to the naked eye is 3.5 ft. in height and its diameter is about 3 ft. The total height of the Lingam is estimated to be about 20 ft.
How To Reach
By Air
Varanasi has a domestic airport, so devotees residing in any part of India can fly in to Varanasi and then make their way to this temple.
By Rail
About 5 m from Varanasi's railway station is the Tilbhandeshwar Temple. Any auto, rickshaw or taxi can reach you to this very famous temple.
By Road
Varanasi has a good fleet of taxis, autos and rickshaws that go all over the city and are affordable and in plenty.
Weather And Time To Visit
Faith usually draws devotees to the holy city of Varanasi, so there's no right or wrong time to make a pilgrimage here. However, since summers are oppressive and monsoons are heavy, the weather is fine between October and April. However, visiting this holy city in the festival months is most appropriate.
Accomodation
Varanasi has a cross-section of hotels, ranging from cheap hotels and budget hotels, to three, four and five-star hotels.
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