Image Credits : Jaiambey
Image Credits : Lalit gupta
Image Credits : Lalit gupta
Image Credits : Nishchal18
Patal Bhubneshwar, located nearly 1350 meters above the sea level, is a magical place having many unexplored and hidden aspects. Patal Bhuvaneshwar is the limestone cave temple that is situated in the Bhubneshwar village. This cave is nearly 90 feet deep and 160 meter long from its entry point. The cave has a slim tunnel-like opening that leads to many more caves. Electrically illuminated, the cave enshrines God Shiva. Nearly every God is known to reside in this mysterious cave. The limestone formations inside the cave have taken the shape of various Gods and Goddesses. The forms of Sheeshnag, Ganesha, Shivlinga, Garurh are visible distinctly to the pilgrims. Worshipping Patal Bhubneshwar is equal to worshipping the Char Dham. As per one belief, Lord Ganesh’s original head that was cut by God Shiva is also situated here.
The Patal Bhubneshwar cave is thought to be just as old as our Earth. Ritupama of the Surya Dynasty was the first person to enter the cave during the Tretyuga. It is believed that Sheshnaag was his guide during his visit and he also encountered many demons. The four entrances in the cave include “Randwar,” “Dharamdwar,” Paapdwar,” and “Mokshadwar.” The Randwar was got closed following the Mahabharat, while Paapdwar closed after Ravana’s death. Presently, two gateways are only opened. The Patal Bhubneshwar caves have many wonders inside them like the hair of Lord Shiva, the tongue of Kali Bhairav, and Aravati of Indra. The cave was rediscovered in the Dwaparyuga by Pandavas while in Kaliyuga, Adi Shankaracharya blessed this cave. Since 1911, the cave has become a religious as well as a sightseeing place.
Although the Patal Bhubneshwar cave has the depiction of many gods and goddesses, primarily the cave belongs to God Shiva. Who else can select such a mysteriously attractive and nice-looking cave to be his abode? Every other formation in the cave looks like a real Shivalinga. You will be amazed by knowing that the water which falls on the Shivalinga constantly doesn’t stagnate or collect. This cave is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Pilgrims from around the world come to get blessings of Lord Shiva and 33 Koti Gods and Goddesses. The serene and quiet environment and surroundings at Patal Bhubneshwar also makes it a perfect place for meditating in peace. Narayan Ashram near Patal Bhubneshwar welcomes tourists to learn the great art of meditation.