History:

is an ancient temple located in the small village of Purmandal, near Jammu city. It is one of the oldest temples in India and is considered to be the place where Lord Shiva first arrived in Jammu. The temple is renowned for its enormous idol of Lord Shivalingam (which is about 7.5 feet tall), and its numerous ancient sculptures. The major attraction of this temple is a large water pond (Surya-Kund) which is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva himself. Devotees flock to the temple to pay homage to the deity and take a holy dip in the kund. It is one of the best temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Swayambhoo Shiv Temple is located in the Pahalgam Tehsil of Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. 2. It is believed that the structure was built by Pandavas in the Dwapar Yuga. 3. The temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and is considered as one of the holiest sites for Hindus in Jammu and Kashmir. 4. The structure is small yet beautifully carved with various carvings and sculptures depicting Lord Shiva. 5. It is said that a cobra resides in the temple and is revered by the devotees who come to offer their prayers. 6. The temple has been a site of pilgrimage for a long time, and sees a good number of devotees each year from the Hindu community. 7. A fair called Minimarg Mela is organised every year near this temple in the month of August. 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 Swayambhoo Shiv temple at Jammu-and-Kashmir is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located near Mansar Lake, which is a popular pilgrimage spot in Jammu-and-Kashmir. The temple is believed to be self-manifested or established on its own and does not contain any idol worship. Devotees follow certain rituals while offering their prayers and homage to Lord Shiva. Devotees perform aaritans which involves offering of flowers, incense and special water on the Shiv linga. Devotees chant mantras and ask for His blessings. After the aaritans, devotees perform pujas by offering sacred plants and fruits as well as offering lighted lamps and deepaas. This is followed by chanting of mantras and aarti while offering prayers and devotions to Lord Shiva. To complete the puja, devotees perform the havan or homa, in which a fire is lit in a specially made pit. The devotees make offerings of grains, ghee and other materials in the fire and chant mantras. The puja ends with the distribution of prasadam and sweets. Offering of Bilva leaves is also considered important while praying at the temple. This most visited temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir

Opening Timing:

The Swayambhoo Shiv temple is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day. top temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir

How to reach:

Swayambhoo Shiv Temple is located in Katara, Udhampur in the Jammu and Kashmir region. The most convenient way to reach this temple is by taking a bus from Jammu or Udhampur. Private vehicles are also available from both these cities. Tourists can also hire a cab from nearby cities to reach this temple. Once at Katara, take the 3.7 KM long road trip to reach the temple. famous temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir