Baidyanath Temple
Deoghar, Jharkhand, India, Jharkhand
Temple
Nagara Architecture (Variant)
N/A
Major Pilgrimage Site (Jyotirlinga), managed by Temple Committee.
Year Built
N/A
Built By
Raja Puran Mal (Gidhaur dynasty, 16th century rebuilt); Legends attribute original to Vishwakarma
Patronage
Gidhaur dynasty, Local rulers, Devotees
Baidyanath Temple
overview
Overview data: 0% complete
Heritage Overview
Temple
Baidyanath Temple
Located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, Baidyanath Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site, enshrining one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest representations of Lord Shiva. Known as Baba Baidyanath Dham, the complex comprises the main Shiva temple and 21 other temples dedicated to various deities. It attracts vast crowds, particularly during the Shravan Mela, where devotees carry sacred water from the Ganges to offer to the Jyotirlinga. The site holds immense religious importance for Hindus across India and beyond.
Location
Deoghar, Jharkhand, India(Jharkhand)
Year Built
N/A
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
4:00 AM - 3:30 PM & 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
General entry free; fees apply for VIP Darshan.
Heritage Status
Major Pilgrimage Site (Jyotirlinga), managed by Temple Committee.
Preservation Status
Good, ongoing maintenance for active pilgrimage site.
Historical Context
The site's antiquity is rooted in Puranic legends of the Jyotirlinga and the disputed Shakti Peetha (where Sati's heart fell, or alternative traditions place the Peetha elsewhere). The Ravana legend adds another layer of mytho-history. While ancient, the present imposing structure likely dates to Raja Puran Mal of the Gidhaur dynasty (16th C), reflecting Rajput patronage in eastern India. Its importance grew as a key pilgrimage point, especially during the Shravan Mela, attracting devotees from vast distances, often enduring arduous journeys, a practice with deep historical roots in the region. Its history is also marked by control disputes between various local powers and priests over centuries.
Archaeological Survey
Likely involves state authorities for documentation; primary management by Baidyanath Dham Managing Committee.
Location Map
Architectural Details
Nagara Architecture (Variant)
N/A
Built by
Raja Puran Mal (Gidhaur dynasty, 16th century rebuilt); Legends attribute original to Vishwakarma
Materials
Stone
Dimensions
Height22m
Featured Image
Excavation Details
No major archaeological excavations reported. Focus is on religious significance and historical accounts. Architectural style suggests periods of construction/renovation. Ancient origins are mentioned in Puranas.
Restoration Work
Regular maintenance and upkeep by temple authorities for active pilgrimage site.
Patronage
Gidhaur dynasty, Local rulers, Devotees
Construction Technique
Stone masonry, Carving
Architectural Influences
1 items
Building Techniques
Construction of pyramidal shikhara, Mandapa construction
Coordinates
24.492800, 86.696100
Accessibility Info
{"notes":"Crowded complex, especially during peak season. Main pathways generally paved but can be congested. Steps lead to some shrines.","restrooms":"Available, often basic, cleanliness variable","wheelchair_accessible":"Limited (difficult due to crowds and steps)"}
Visitor Facilities
8 items
Best Visit Times
October to March offers pleasant weather. Shravani Mela (July-August) is the peak pilgrimage season, incredibly vibrant but extremely crowded. For a calmer darshan, visit early morning (4 AM - 7 AM) on a non-festival weekday.
Seasonal Events
3 items
Visitor Restrictions
Modest attire is expected. Remove footwear before entering premises. Photography inside the main shrine is generally prohibited. Be prepared for large crowds and organized queues, especially during Shravan. Leather items (belts, wallets) may be disallowed inside.
View Count
3
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
67
Completion Status
in-progress
Created By
68408625-44a5-46e3-b746-71290aac1079
Created At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00
Updated At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00