Rudranath is situated in the north-western Indian state of Uttarakhand. It lies amidst thick woods. Here the ‘mukh’ or the Lord’s face appeared and Shiva is worshipped as Neelkanth Mahadev. Rudranath is situated at a height of 2,286 meters All around are fragrant flower laden meadows where herbs grow in profusion. In the background, are the glittering snow-covered peaks of Trishul, Nanda Devi, Devastan etc.
Near the temple is a stream of sparkling water known as Vaitarini – the ‘Water of Salvation’.
Passing through the glorious mountain scenery, the seventeen kilometres trek passes on its way through Anusuyadevi. At a height of 2,439 metres, Nandikund is a place where the people worship some rusty old historic swords thrust into the rocks. The local populace earnestly believe that the swords belonged originally to the Pandavas.
A trek to Rudranath can be organised either from Gangodgaon or Helang. A cross-country trek from Mandai to Helang via Anusuyadevi, Rudranath, Bansi Narayan, Urgam and Kalpeshwar or vice-versa can really be rewarding.
The temple is surrounded by a number of pools – Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Tara Kund, Manas Kund – while the great peaks of Nand a Devi, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti rear overhead.
NEPAL
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