New Delhi: Dev Bhoomi, the Land of Gods – Uttarakhand – is known for its many temples, with every step leading towards divine presence. Every temple, not just in Uttarakhand but countrywide, tells a story that has lived through the ages, etched in faith, mythology and tradition. And among the many temples nestled in the hills of Uttarakhand stands a shrine of great spiritual and historical significance — the Triyuginarayan Temple.
According to legends, it is believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married here. Read on to learn more about the temple and if anyone can get married here.
Triyuginarayan Temple is in Triyuginarayan village, Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is famous for the story of Lord Shiva’s marriage to Goddess Parvati, which Vishnu witnessed here. This makes it a popular Hindu pilgrimage site. A key feature of the temple is the eternal fire, which is said to have burned since the divine marriage. Though it used to ignite by itself, the Jamloki Brahmins now keep it burning. The temple is also called Akhand Dhuni because of its everlasting flame.
The name “Triyuginarayan” means pilgrims have offered wood to the fire for three yugas or ages. The temple is important in the story of Parvati, the daughter of Himavat, who won Shiva’s love through penance. Their wedding took place at this site, with Vishnu acting as Parvati’s brother and Brahma as the priest. This spot is marked by a stone called Brahma Shila. Visitors see the ashes from the fire as sacred and believe they can bring happiness in marriage.
Triyuginarayan is unique because of its connection to divine events and continuous sacred fire. This fire witnesses Shiva and Parvati’s union and enriches the spiritual experience for pilgrims.
The Triyuginarayan Temple is similar in style to the Kedarnath Temple, attracting many visitors. This shrine is also known as the Akhand Dhuni Temple and is believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya, who constructed several temples in Uttarakhand. Inside the temple is a two-foot silver image of God Vishnu (Narayana), his wife, Goddess Lakshmi, and the Goddess of music and learning, Maa Saraswati.
In front of the temple is a havana-kund with an eternal flame, symbolising Shiva and Parvati’s wedding. Devotees add wooden offerings to the flame and collect the ashes for blessings. A stone called Brahma Shila is located in front of the temple and is considered the site of the divine marriage. Saraswati Ganga flows from the temple courtyard and fills the nearby holy ponds.
These ponds include Rudra Kund, which is for bathing; Vishnu Kund, for cleansing; Brahma Kund, for drinking; and Saraswati Kund, for making offerings.
To reach the Triyuginarayan village and temple, drive 12 kilometres from Sonprayag or take a 5-kilometre trek along the Ghuttur–Kedarnath path through a forest. The trek is about 25 kilometres from Kedarnath. Ghuttur is connected by road to Haridwar and other hill stations. Dehradun Airport is 244 kilometres away, and Rishikesh railway station is 261 kilometres from the temple.
Many people believe marriages are made in heaven, which could be true since it takes something special to unite two strangers. Choose an amazing location for your wedding to make this special moment even better. The venue where you marry is very important. Recently, destination weddings have become very popular. You can choose from options like a luxurious palace in Rajasthan, a quiet spot in the hills, or spiritual places like Triyuginarayan in Uttarakhand.
Imagine saying your vows surrounded by tall mountains, lush greenery, and peacefulness. This setting is perfect. Marrying in a place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are united is truly magical. If you want your wedding day to be unique and unforgettable, then Triyuginarayan Temple in Uttarakhand is a great choice for your ceremony.
