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Jageshwar
(82 kms.) from Kausani, is a cluster of ancient temples from 8th
to 12th century A.D. The complex consisting of 124 temples and hundreds
of statues is not merely famous for its exquisite craftsmanship
but also for its Swayambhu Lingum named Naagesh. The main temples
are dedicated to Maha Mrityunjaya, Mahisasur Mardini, Kedarnath,
Baleshwar, Surya, Navagraha, Mahakali, and Navdurga.
Jageshwar is amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and Aadi Shankaracharya
also meditated here. Vridha Jageshwar, 12 km from here by motorable
road is the source of Jata Ganga river. Jageshwar, apart from its
countryside, it also offers imposing view of Hiriya Shikhar (2200
m).
Uttar Vrindavan is enroute to Jageshwar and is close to proximity.
It is 3 km beyond Panuwa Naula on the left hand side. The Uttar
Vrindavan Ashram of Mirtola was established in 1929 by Yashoda Ma,
spouse of Dr. G.N. Charkravarty, first Vice Chancellor of Lucknow
University and her disciple Krishna Prem. The present temple was
constructed in 1937.
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Bageshwar
(40 kms.), Situated on the confluence of two sacred rivers, Saryu
and Gomti, Bageshwar is an important centre for Shiva worshippers.
It is known that Markendaya Muni lived here and Lord Shiva wandered
in the form of a tiger in this holy tract. The present 'Bagnath'
(bagh means tiger) temple located here was constructed by the king
Laxmi Chand in 1602 A.D. In close proximity is the old temple of
Vaneshwar as well as the recently constructed Bhairav temple.
The various statues in the temples dates back to 7th century A.D.
to 16th century A.D. This town is not only famous for the Baghnath
temple but also for the Uttarayani fair held on the confluence of
the sacred rivers, in mid January every year. Bageshwar is also
base camp for trekkers going to Pindari, Kafani and Sunderdhunga
glaciers. The rugged beauty of these glaciers is a breath taking
sight.
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