Baghnath that literally suggests the ‘Tiger Lord’ is a temple after which the Bagheswar city is named. This famous Hindu temple is a Shaivism site dedicated to Lord Shiva the transformer within the ‘Trinity’ namely Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh (Shiva himself). This ancient shrine is adorned in the Bageshwar city of Kumaon and is flooded with devotees during the auspicious Shivratri festival.
The Baghnath Temple exhibits a marvellous architecture with brass bells of different sizes and features festooned in the temple.
Some sources states that the Baghnath Temple existed since 7th century and the present Nagara style building was built in 1450 by Chand ruler, Laxmi Chand. The temple also finds mention in the Skanda Purana. Also, the various stone figurines seen in the temple dates back to the 7th century AD to 16th century AD.
According to the Hindu scriptures, Baghnath temple site is the place where Sage Markandeya worshipped Lord Shiva. Pleased with the sage’s prayers Lord Shiva manifested in his Tiger avatar and blessed Markandeya with his presence.
In the month of January, the temple hosts a grand fair called ‘Uttarayani’ on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. This festival is marked by holy bathing which takes at the confluence of Gomati and Saryu river during dawn. After the holy bath, the water is offered on the Shivalinga installed inside the Baghnath temple. The religiously inclined people continue this ritual for three consecutive days which is known as ‘Trimaghi’.
Baghnath Temple is located in Bageshwar ( The temple is situated at a confluence of Saryu and Gomti River in Bageshwar. A short trail downward from main road leads to this temple.).
Baghnathtemple in Bageshwar is situated on the confluence of Gomati and Saryu rivers.The travellers can take the private bus from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi to thenearby cities like Almora, Nainital and Haldwani, from where local transport to Bageshwar is easily available. Kathgodam railway station at 151 km away is the nearest railhead from Baghnath temple. Pantnagar airport at 297 km away is the closest air connectivity to the temple. Taxis to Baghnath temple are easily available from here.
Baghnath Temple is popular place for following activities/ interests - Historical, Pilgrimage, Religious, Shiva Temples, Temples.
