Located in the serene hills of Uttarakhand, Buda Kedar Temple is one of the most ancient and lesser-known temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at the confluence of the Bal Ganga and Dharam Ganga rivers, Buda Kedar lies at an altitude of approximately 1,520 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque Himalayan landscapes. This temple holds significant spiritual and mythological importance, attracting pilgrims and spiritual seekers alike.
Though not as famous as the Panch Kedar temples, Buda Kedar has a unique place in Hindu mythology and offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with divinity in the lap of nature.
Mythological Significance
According to Hindu mythology, Buda Kedar is believed to be the spot where the Pandavas, from the great Indian epic Mahabharata, offered their Pind Daan (a ritual to honor ancestors) for their deceased loved ones after the Kurukshetra War. It is said that the Pandavas built the temple in honor of Lord Shiva, seeking penance for the loss of lives during the war.
The temple’s name, “Buda Kedar,” is derived from two words: ‘Buda’, which means ‘old,’ and ‘Kedar’, referring to Lord Shiva, also known as Kedar. Some also believe that the temple was established by an elderly sage, thus the name “Buda” (old) refers to him. Another belief suggests that the term ‘Buda’ is used because the temple predates the famous Kedarnath Temple and is thus “older” in spiritual context.
The Temple’s Architecture and Idol
Buda Kedar Temple is small but sacred, reflecting the simplicity of hill temple architecture. The main sanctum houses a Shiva Linga, which is the prime object of worship. The Shiv Linga is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu), adding to the temple’s spiritual aura. The surrounding areas also feature several smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati, and other Hindu deities.
A special feature of this temple is the large footprint, said to be that of Bhima, one of the Pandavas, near the Shiva Linga. Pilgrims and locals believe that Bhima left this mark when he performed the rituals for the ancestors at this sacred site.
Spiritual Importance of Buda Kedar
Buda Kedar is particularly famous for the Pind Daan ritual, where pilgrims perform rites for their ancestors. Many people visit this temple to seek blessings for the departed souls and to attain peace for their families. The temple is considered one of the holiest sites in Uttarakhand for performing these ancestral rites, alongside Haridwar and Rishikesh.
The presence of the two rivers, Bal Ganga and Dharam Ganga, is another reason for the site’s holiness. These rivers are considered sacred, and their confluence is believed to purify the soul. Pilgrims often take a dip in the river before offering prayers at the temple.
How to Reach Buda Kedar
Buda Kedar is located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Despite its remote location, it is accessible by road, and the journey itself is a spiritual experience, offering stunning views of the Himalayan foothills, dense forests, and the flowing rivers.
By Road:
- The nearest major town to Buda Kedar is Tehri, which is about 59 km away. From Tehri, regular taxis and buses are available to Buda Kedar.
- Rishikesh, a major pilgrimage hub, is about 128 km from Buda Kedar and serves as a good starting point for those coming from other parts of India. From Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located approximately 167 km from Buda Kedar. From the airport, one can hire a taxi to reach the temple.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station is at Rishikesh or Haridwar, which are well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Buda Kedar.
Best Time to Visit Buda Kedar
Buda Kedar can be visited throughout the year, but the best time is during the summer months (April to June) and the post-monsoon season (September to November). The weather during these times is pleasant, and the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills is at its peak.
- Summer (April to June): The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it an ideal time for pilgrims and tourists to visit the temple.
- Monsoon (July to September): The area experiences heavy rainfall during monsoons, and landslides may block roads, so it’s advisable to avoid visiting during this time.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as 0°C, but the temple remains accessible. For those who enjoy solitude and don’t mind the chilly weather, this is a great time to visit.
Nearby Attractions
Tehri Dam: Located about 60 km from Buda Kedar, the Tehri Dam is one of the largest dams in Asia and a popular tourist attraction. The dam offers stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains. It’s also a great spot for water sports like jet skiing and boating.
Sem Mukhem Temple: Just a few kilometers away from Buda Kedar, Sem Mukhem is another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its religious significance and beautiful surroundings, making it a great spot for pilgrims and trekkers alike.
Chandrabadni Temple: Located approximately 35 km from Buda Kedar, the Chandrabadni Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrabani, another form of Parvati. This temple offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys.
Accommodation
Since Buda Kedar is a small and relatively remote location, accommodation options are limited. However, simple guesthouses and homestays are available in nearby villages and towns. Pilgrims can also find basic accommodation at Tehri or Rishikesh, from where they can make day trips to the temple.
For those seeking a more immersive spiritual experience, camping is also an option. The natural beauty of the area, coupled with the serenity of the temple, makes camping a unique and peaceful way to experience the spiritual energy of Buda Kedar.
Conclusion
Buda Kedar Temple offers an authentic spiritual experience amidst the peaceful beauty of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. While it may not be as famous as Kedarnath or Badrinath, the quiet serenity, historical significance, and mythological importance of this temple make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and divinity.
Whether you’re a pilgrim performing ancestral rituals, a trekker exploring the hidden gems of Uttarakhand, or a traveler looking to escape the chaos of city life, Buda Kedar Temple offers an experience that blends spirituality, history, and the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.
