History:

, Bhagwan Shive ji Mandir, located in the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the entire region. This temple is believed to have been built by the illustrious king “Raja Dara Shikoh” in 1635 AD. It is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds immense religious importance for the devotees who flock here to seek His blessings. The temple has been named after one of His five names, Shive means the auspicious one and this name symbolizes the positivity associated with the teachings of Lord Shiva. Dara Shikoh was the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was believed to be an ardent worshipper of Lord Shiva. As per the legends, Dara Shikoh made a pilgrimage to Jammu and was so impressed by the view of the Tawi River surrounding this area that he wanted to build a temple here to seek the blessings of Lord. The temple was completed in 1640 and ever since, the shrine has been witnessing a steady influx of devotees on a daily basis. Bhagwan Shive ji Mandir is an important pilgrimage centre for thousands of Hindus across the world who come here to seek the gods’ blessings. The temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and also houses several shrines dedicated to several other Hindu gods like Ganesha, Parvati, Nandi, etc. The walls of the temple are decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful paintings depicting the various religious scenes. Its iconic pyramidal shaped dome adds to the grandeur of the temple. Apart from being a popular temple, Bhagwan Shive ji Mandir also plays a very important role in promoting faith and devotion amongst the devotees who visit here. The priests at the temple perform special prayer ceremonies and havans to invoke the divine grace and benevolence of Lord Shiva. During the annual festival of Shravan, devotees from all over India come here to take a dip in the holy water of the Tawi River and offer their prayers to the Lord. Bhagwan Shive ji Mandir is a place where devotees come to immerse themselves in the devotion and seek the blessings of the Almighty. The centuries old shrine has been witnessing a steady influx of pilgrims since the time of Dara Shikoh and continues to do so till date. It is one of the best temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Bhagwan Shive Ji Mandir is located in the Dhingsara area of Akhnoor Tehsil in Jammu and Kashmir. 2. The temple was built in the 10th century during the reign of Mihir Bhoj. 3. The temple is said to be built in honour of the Lord Shiva. 4. It is said that the temple was originally five stories high, but the top two floors were destroyed in an earthquake in the 16th century. 5. The remaining three floors are dedicated to the Mahadev, Surya Dev and Ganesh Ji, respectively. 6. The main idol of Lord Shiva is formed of a single stone. 7. According to mythology, Lord Shiva once resided in the hills of Dhingsara and performed 'Tandav' dance in the temple. 8. The temple is surrounded by a pond, which is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva. 9. The temple premises and its surrounding area have been declared as a protected site by the Archaeological Survey of India. 10. The temple is a center of faith for the local population who visit the temple every day to pay their respect and seek blessings. Here are some facts about the Jammu-and-Kashmir temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir

Worship Method:

The worship method of Bhagwan Shive ji Mandir in Jammu and Kashmir is a blend of Hindu and Kashmiri Pandit customs. The temple staff perform traditional mantra puja for the deity every morning. Devotees offer fresh flower garlands, incense, and coins to the deity. They light lamps and diyas around the temple and conduct aarti rituals in the evening. Homam (fire ceremony) is celebrated during special occasions. The temple hosts a bi-annual festival, which is called ‘Shivaratri’ and is celebrated as per Hindu solar calendar. The priests of the temple perform special pujas and offerings are made to the deity. Devotees participate in special bhajans to mark the occasion. This most visited temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir

Opening Timing:

The temple opens everyday, at the following times: Monday to Sunday – 6am to 9pm top temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir

How to reach:

The Bhagwan Shive ji Mandir in Jammu-and-Kashmir is located at the Narsingh Mandir area, on the banks of the holy Ravi river, near Bikram Chowk in Jammu City. The nearest airport is Jammu Airport and the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station. From either of these two locations, one can take a taxi or any public transport to reach the temple. famous temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir