Mukteshwar
Location
The Mukteshwar is located 51 Km from Nainital, in Kumaon district of
Uttaranchal.
Mukteshwar- a Unique Hillstation
Mukteshwar is known for being a tourists destination, apart from being
known as temple town. The hillstation is a lush green cover of
coniferous forests. Facilities for trekking and mountaineering are also
available in the town. Mukteshwar is also known for its evening and
bird-watching. Its a scenic picnic spot, which fulfills all the
tourists' requirements and leaves him longing for more. The best season
to visit Mukteshwar is during March to August. Though it starts raining
from mid July, the place looks stunning in the first few showers of
monsoon.
The Mukteshwar Temple
The temple of Mukteshwar is dedicated to lord Shiva. Set on a height of
2300 mt, the temple represents a pristine sense of devotion. Lush green
surroundings, mesmerising hilltop, beautiful temple and the thick
vegetation of fruit orchards and coniferous forests gives a heavenly
experience to the traveler. The temple enshrines a white marble idol of
Shiva, in the form of Shiva-linga. There are many other idols, including
Vishnu, Brahma, Parvati, Ganesh, Nandi and Hanuman around the linga.
Myths and Religious Attachments
Mukteshar has been popular as a tourists destination. Due to its
proximity with Nainital, Mukteshwar gained immense popularity as a
tourism destination, rather than a pilgrimage. But the temple has been a
centre of high devotion amongst the locals. Chauthi Jali, near the
temple, is another place of intrest. The structure has rocks cut out
from the hill, facing at a bizarre angle. It is believed if a married
lady touches the stones, she will be very soon blessed with a child.
Getting There
Mukteshwar can be reached by road from Nainital and Haldwani. Nainital
is 51 Km and Haldwani is 49 km from Mukteshwar. Nearest railhead is
Kathgodam, 72 Km away. Regular taxis and buses are available from
Nainital, Haldwani and Kathgodam to reach Mukteshwar. The town is 330 km
from New Delhi.
Accommodations
Accommodations in Mukteshwar is not a problem. There are few very good
hotels in the town, which provide with luxury and spiritual stay at
Mukteshwar. Alternatively, one can stay at Nainital and make trip to
Mukteshwar.
