Narayan Koti Group of Temples, Uttarakhand
Address
Narayan Koti Group of Temples, Uttarakhand
Narayan Koti Village,
Ukhimath Tehsil, Rudra Prayag District
Uttarakhand 246439
Moolavar
Lord Vishnu
Introduction
The Narayan Koti Group of Temples is a collection of ancient temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated in Narayan Koti Village, which is in the Ukhimath Tehsil of Rudra Prayag District in the state of Uttarakhand, India. These temples are considered a significant historical and religious site and are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple complex is located approximately 4 kilometers from Guptkashi, along the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund highway in Uttarakhand.
Puranic Significance
Historical Significance:
- The temples in this complex are believed to have been constructed in the 9th century CE, making them ancient and historically valuable.
- This temple complex is mentioned in the Kedarkhand, which is a significant section of religious texts and epics in Hindu mythology.
Legend:
- According to legend, Lord Krishna is said to have revealed his one crore (ten million) Narayana forms to the Pandavas when they were in distress or feeling disheartened. This divine revelation by Lord Krishna lifted their spirits.
Temple Complex:
- The Narayan Koti Group of Temples comprises around thirty ancient temples within the complex.
- The primary temple in this complex is dedicated to Lakshmi Narayana, a form of Lord Vishnu who represents wealth and prosperity.
- One unique aspect of this temple complex is that it includes temples dedicated to all nine celestial bodies, known as the Navagrahas. These celestial bodies are Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Sun, Moon, Rahu, and Ketu. Having all these temples within the same complex is distinct and significant in Hindu temple architecture.
- Additionally, the complex houses temples dedicated to Veerabhadra and Satya Narayana.
- There is a Kund (water tank) within the temple complex known as Virabhadra Kund or Brahma Kund. This Kund is fed by two streams representing the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna.
State of Preservation:
- Unfortunately, the temples in this complex are in a dilapidated state and have suffered from the effects of time and natural elements. Preservation and restoration efforts may be needed to safeguard this historical and religious heritage.
The Narayan Koti Group of Temples is a valuable historical and religious site, rich in architectural and mythological significance. It represents Lord Vishnu in various forms, including Lakshmi Narayana, and is known for its unique inclusion of temples for all nine celestial bodies.
Century/Period
9th century CE
Managed By
Archaeological Survey of India
Nearest Bus Station
Guptkashi
Nearest Railway Station
Rishikesh
Nearest Airport
Dehradun