Sudh Mahadev Temple - Jammu and Kashmir

Sudh Mahadev temple is one of the popular Shiva temples in Jammu and Kashmir state of India. This temple is located at Chanhani town near Patnitop hill resort. The place is located at around 120 kms from Jammu, the capital of J&K state. The complete name of this temple is Sudh Mahadev Shool Paneeswar temple. However, both this temple as well as the location are popular by the name "Sudh Mahadev".

Sudh Mahadev temple is mythologically important Hindu temple. As per the belief, there was a Rakshasa named Sudheet who went to the Goddess Parvati (wife of Lord Shiva) to pay his respect. However, his demonic look frightened the Goddess and hence she made a shriek. Lord Shiva who was under penance heard the voice of Parvati. Thinking that Paravati was in trouble, he threw his trident (tri shool) towards the Rakshasa and killed him. However, he realized his mistake soon and offered the Rakshasa his life back. However, the Rakshasa preferred to die in the hands of Lord Shiva. Thereafter, the site got the name 'Sudh Mahadev'.

Sudh Mahadev Shool Paneeswar is a small temple, which is believed to be 1000 years old. However, the current building of the temple was built around 100 years ago. The sanctum enshrines the idol of Lord Shiva along with his consort Parvati and his son Ganesh. Lord Shiva has three eyes. Nandi idol and two Shiv Linga idols are also located in the same shrine.

Opposite to the main shrine, there is a separate shrine for Goraknath. There are big idols of Kal Bhairav and Bhayankar Bhairav located in this temple. There is a small shrine for Lord Ganesha. Few idols of Ganesha in different postures are also found in the various places in the temple. The site has the samadhi (tomb) of the saint Babu Roopnath and other saints. Each tomb has a Shiv Linga idol installed on the top.

The main highlight of the temple is the broken pieces of the trident, which is believed to be one used by Lord Shiva to kill the Rakshasa.

Happy travelling.
Fast Facts:
Site Name: Sudh Mahadev Temple
Site Type: Hindu temple, pilgrimage, holy shrine
Location:  120 kms from Jammu, nearest city is Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir state, India
Highlights: The site where the trident (trishul) of Lord Shiva is located
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu - well connected from the cities/towns all over India
Nearest Airport: Jammu
How to reach: Reachable by road from Jammu, Katra or Udhampur
Hotel: A lot of hotels are available in Katra, Udhampur and Jammu; 
Restaurants: Good restaurants are available in Katra, Udhampur and Jammu


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