Pandukeshwar, the name itself, says this place has a connection to the Pandavas. But how is it related to the Pandavs? Let’s time travel to history…
Pandukeshwar is associated with the name of Pandu, who was the king and the father of the Pandavas. Located on the way to Badrinath, this is a small village nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. The deity worshipped here is Vishnu. The village is a lesser-known hidden gem. One of the mythological stories behind Pandukeshwar is about King Pandu, who worshipped Shiva. Also mentioned in the Mahabharata, this place holds two sacred Temples, one is the Yogdhyan Badri and the other is the Vasudev Temple. The Yogdhyan Badri Temple is one of the Panch Badri situated here. The idol was installed by King Pandu himself, and this is a life-size idol positioned in the Yog Dhyan mudra of Lord Vishnu. The Vasudev Temple was established by the Pandavas to honour Vasudev.
History of Pandukeshwar
Pandukeshwar is a small Himalayan village that exists today but has its history connected to the Mahabharata. King Pandu left his kingdom, entrusting it to his brother Dhritarashtra, and went to live in a forest with his two wives. Once he went hunting in the forest, and he killed a deer who was making love. He discovers that the deer was Sage in the form of a deer, and when the Sage died, he cursed Pandu that if he loved anyone, he would die. Hearing this, Pandu performed penance at Pandukeshwar, setting him free from the curse from the murdering of the Sage. Later, Pandu visited Yogdhyan Badri, where he installed a life-size idol of Lord Vishnu and meditated for several years.
Many years later, one day, when Madri was bathing in the Alaknanda river, Pandu became attracted to her. As per the curse said, he could not love anyone. The curse got triggered, and Pandu died, leaving behind his wives and children. It is also said that the Pandavs came to Pandukeshwar to perform the funeral ritual at the time of their exile. During this time, Arjun meditated here and received blessings from Lord Indra. It is said that the Vasudev temple was constructed by the Pandavs during this period.
Rituals and Festivals
Pandukeshwar is not only the home of the Pandavas but also plays an important religious role. During the winter, when Badrinath Temple remains closed for six months, this place becomes the winter abode for Lord Vishnu. Just after the closing of the Badrinath Temple, the Utsav Murti is brought ceremoniously to the Yogdhyan Badri temple. Here, Lord Vishnu is worshipped for six months during winter. At the closing ceremony of Badrinath Temple, Pandukeshwar is decorated like a wonderland. Every house in the village comes together to celebrate the welcoming of Vishnu and offer prayer.
When the Badrinath temple reopens, the Utsav Murti is transferred back to the Badrinath. Even then, the daily rituals and prayers are being performed in the Yogdhyan Badri Temple. The major festivals celebrated here are Makar Sankranti, Janmastmi, Navratri and Deepawali. In Pandukeshwar, a local fair is also organised with the cultural charm of garhwali music and dances.
Best Time to Visit Pandukeshwar
In my opinion, there is no such “best time” to visit Pandukeshwar. As no one plans specifically for the Pandukeshwar until, if your main purpose is to stay in this place for a longer time. Anyone visiting Badrinath can take a small stoppage at Pandukeshwar on the way. This place is open throughout the year. Better to avoid the months of monsoon, as the landslide in this area is very frequent and blocks the roads for a longer time.
The weather is usually pleasant here, but do carry an umbrella and a jacket or scarf, as weather changes are very sudden in the mountains.
How to Reach Pandukeshwar?
Pandukeshwar lies on the way to Badrinath, so you can take a stop and a quick visit to the temple. The temple is a few steps away from the main road. The distance from Badrinath to reach Pandukeshwar is 22 km, and from Joshimath, it is 17 km.
Stays/Accommodation
Pandukeshwar is a small mountain village, with a few options available for stays and food. One planning to stay here should be prepared for limited options, as the facilities available are limited.
But trust me, the local hospitality and the warm food win your heart. Also, there are mixed options for hotels, ashrams and homestays. Lastly, always check beforehand or use local references for a perfect stay.
Yati Gaur: https://youtu.be/qBlgDi4bWDI
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