A Pilgrimage to Baidyanath: All You Need to Know

Baidyanath Temple is an auspicious place of worship for Hindus, that’s famous for being one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. It is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva — the principal deity in Hinduism. Located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, the lush and sprawling temple complex will win you over instantly. There are 21 temples inside the complex, apart from the main temple of Baba Baidyanath where the primary linga is present.

While just a darshan at this legendary site is an unparalleled experience in itself, there’s a lot more that you can see and do on your pilgrimage to Baidyanath Temple.

Read on to find out...

Places to See Around Baidyanath Temple

Naulakha Mandir

As the name suggests, Naulakha Mandir was built with a budget of 9 lakh rupees. This 146-feet-high temple is dedicated to the divine duo of Radha and Krishna, and is one of the major spots to visit in Deoghar other than Baba Baidyanath Dham. This place is located close to the main temple (just about 1.5 kilometres), so reaching here won’t feel like a task.

Basukinath Temple

One of the most auspicious temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Indian states of Bihar and Jharkhand, Basukinath Temple is a must-visit on a pilgrimage to Baidyanath. There are two main temples in the complex, one dedicated to Lord Shiva and the other to Goddess Parvati, Shiva’s wife. Both these temples face each other and are opened in the evening. There are other temples in the complex as well that are dedicated to other Gods and Goddesses.

Nandan Pahaar

This is an amusement park that is located atop a hill in Deoghar, and houses the Nandi Temple. People usually come to Nandan Pahaar for picnics. There are many activities here that you and your group can indulge in, like joy rides and boating. The theme houses, lush gardens and the pond here also attract a lot of visitors. Also, the sunrise and sunset views from the top of this hill is simply mesmerising.

Trikuta Parvata

The Trikuta Parvata (2,470 feet high) is named so due to the topography of this place. The hill has three main peaks, hence the name. A drive of about 10 kilometres from Deoghar and subsequently a ropeway ride will take you to the top of the hill. The view from here is spectacular and would enthral your senses to the core! The monsoon enhances the beauty of this place further with misty clouds, seasonal streams and waterfalls.

Mayurakshi River

The beautiful Mayurakshi River originates from the Trikuta Parvata, and makes it way through the several districts of West Bengal. It finally joins the River Hooghly in its state of culmination. Visiting the banks of River Mayurakshi while in Deoghar would make for a calming experience, after you’ve paid your respects at Baidyanath and the other temples.

Places to Eat Around Baidyanath Temple

Mint - The A.C. Restaurant

This cosy air-conditioned restaurant is located in close proximity to Baba Baidyanath Temple. Head to this place for pure vegetarian food, that’s prepared without onion and garlic, keeping in mind the needs of the devotees visiting the temple.

Ambar Restaurant

Another restaurant located close to Baba Baidyanath Temple, Ambar Restaurant is one of the most popular eateries in Deoghar. The place serves a variety of cuisines at reasonable rates. You can enjoy several Chinese, North Indian and South Indian delicacies here.

Hotpott

This restaurant near Baba Baidyanath Templei is for tourists who are looking for more than just the usual vegetarian options. You can indulge in finger food, along with North Indian specialties. The place is located in a food court, giving people the option of trying out food items from other places as well.

Anand Foodies Veg Restaurant

A humble eatery located at a distance of around 7.4 kilometres from Baba Baidyanath Temple, Anand Foodies Veg Restaurant makes for a great place to eat in Deoghar. The place has no air conditioning, however, there is a provision of coolers for visitors. The North Indian dishes here are lip-smacking. This is also a haven for vegetarians, who are looking for cheaper dining options. Cleanliness and a family-friendly ambience can be expected here.

Moti Mahal Delux Deoghar

A part of Hotel Rajkamal, the Moti Mahal Delux restaurant is a haven for foodies, especially the ones who love Tandoori delights. The place has air-conditioning, comfortable seating and an extensive menu, serving North Indian and Mughlai delicacies. There are several options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians here.

Places to Stay Near Baidyanath Temple

Hotel Rudraksh Inn

Located about half a kilometre away from Baba Baidyanath Temple, this hotel is one of the top-rated ones. It offers facilities like free Wi-Fi, 24-hour Room Service, Power Backup, Kitchenette, Air Conditioning (Room controlled), Bathroom, LAN, Intercom, Refrigerator, Housekeeping and more.

Hotel Ganga Palace

This place is another great hotel located just about half a kilometre from Baba Baidyanath Temple. The property offers humble and clean accommodations, along with other services like Power Backup, Laundry, Housekeeping, First-aid, Luggage Storage and Doctor-on-call.

Central Inn

A sophisticated property located close to Baba Baidyanath Temple, Central Inn is a great accommodation option. The hotel provides all basic amenities along with other facilities like Wi-Fi and Free Parking.

Hotel Rajkamal

A comfortable and sophisticated property in Deoghar, Hotel Rajkamal is located about a kilometre away from Baba Baidyanath Dham. The hotel offers great rooms with additional perks like Free Wi-Fi, Free Parking, Air Conditioning (Room controlled), Restaurant, Doctor-on-call, Travel Assistance and a whole lot more.

Best Time to Visit

The winter months – from October to March are perfect for enjoying a pilgrimage to Baba Baidyanath Temple. This is when the Shravan Mela ends and majority of the devotees leave, hence is an apt time for you if you prefer less crowd. However, if you are looking to make the most of the grand event of Shravan Mela, plan your visit during July-August.