Bareilly Shree Baba Alakhnath ji Mandir – Uttar Pradesh 

Address

Bareilly Shree Baba Alakhnath ji Mandir – Uttar Pradesh 

State Highway 37, Phool Bagh,

Quilla Chhawni, Bareilly,

Uttar Pradesh 243001

Moolavar

Alakhnath (Shiva)

Introduction

• Location: The Alakhnath Temple is one of the four Natha (Shiva) temples located at the four corners of Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. It is a prominent Shiva shrine and serves as the primary akhaara for the Naga Sadhus of the district.
• Deity: While the main presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, the temple is also known for its huge statue of Lord Hanuman, which stands at an impressive height of 51 feet, making it a prominent landmark in the area.
• Naga Sadhus: The temple holds significant importance as the headquarters of the Naga Sadhus, who are part of the Anand order. The temple complex serves as their place of residence and worship.

Puranic Significance

• Akharas and Naga Sadhus: The devotees of Lord Shiva are spread across various faiths, orders, and sects. One of the major sects is the Naga Sadhus who belong to akharas. These are spiritual communities of ascetics, also known as babas, primarily found in Northern India. The Alakhnath Temple is the headquarter of the Anand akhaara of Naga Sanyasis and serves as their base for worship and penance.
• Legend of Saint Alakhiya: The temple is named after Saint Alakhiya, who is said to have meditated under a Banyan tree in the dense forests of the Qila region during ancient times. According to local legends, the temple’s name, Alakhnath, is derived from this saint.
• Historical Significance: The temple has a rich history of over 930 years. During the late 17th century, when many temples were demolished under Mughal rule, the Alakhnath Temple remained a stronghold. It is believed that the Mughals were unable to breach the temple’s inner sanctum, adding to its historical and cultural significance.
• Temple Complex: The temple complex includes several buildings surrounding a central courtyard, each dedicated to various gods, goddesses, and deities. Devotees move from one shrine to another, offering prayers and making offerings. The temple is not just a spiritual center but also a shelter for animals, including cows, goats, and a camel.

Special Features

1. Four Natha Temples in Bareilly: The Alakhnath Temple is one of the four Natha temples located at the four corners of Bareilly, each dedicated to Lord Shiva and significant for their spiritual and cultural contributions.
2. Akhaara for Naga Sadhus: This temple serves as the prime akhaara for the Naga Sadhus in the region, with the Anand order of sadhus making it their headquarters. The presence of Naga sadhus adds a unique aspect to the temple’s spiritual practices and rituals.
3. Animal Shelters: In addition to its religious significance, the temple also provides shelter for various animals. The temple complex houses cattle shelters for cows, buffaloes, and goats, demonstrating a commitment to protecting and caring for animals. A camel can also be found behind one of the buildings.
4. 51 Feet Hanuman Statue: A 51-foot statue of Lord Hanuman stands just outside the temple complex. This massive statue is a key attraction for visitors and devotees, symbolizing strength, devotion, and the divine presence of Lord Hanuman.

Festivals

 Maha Shivaratri

Century/Period

930 years

Nearest Bus Station

Bareilly

Nearest Railway Station

Bareilly Junction

Nearest Airport

Bareilly

Location on Map

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