Jammu and Kashmir attracts people from all over the world for its presence of religious temples and striking scenic beauty. Sudh Mahadev Temple and Mantalai Temple in Udhampur are considered sacred.

Sudh-Mahadev Temple is situated 42 km away from Patnitop and it is 120 km away from Jammu. A few kilometres farther you will find Mantalai Temple at an elevation of 1450 metres from the ground, surrounded by deodar trees. The surrounding area is peaceful.

During festivals and fairs people visit this temple to just listen to the songs sung by the sages and saints. These songs are dedicated to love shared between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This temple is of great archaeological significance as red earthenware and terra cotta figures were discovered at this place.

This shrine is quite small and it has an idol of Goddess Parvati as kanya. There are sets of idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati together and also Parvati and Ganesha together riding on a bull called Nandi. Two idols of Nandi face the shrine. There lies a divine rock that is a sign of the marriage. Five kilometres away from the temple you will find a way through the woods to Naina Devi. This spot offers great views of the mountain landscape in the surroundings. The breathtaking views from the hill top make this place worthy of a visit.

History

A Shiv-ling at Sudh-Mahadev Temple is said to be at least 3000 years old. This temple was built around 80 years ago. It is said that Goddess Parvati worshipped this Shiv Ling in ancient times. This temple has a marble statue of Shiva and Parvati in black. There is a Trishula preserved at this temple. It is believed that Lord Shiva had killed a demon with this Trident, accidently and later the Lord had realised that he was one of his devotees.

Legends

It is said that Goddess Parvati was born at the location of Mantalai Temple. It is also believed that Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati here.

How to Reach

By Air

Jammu Airport is the closest to the location of this temple. People from all parts of the country can fly to this place as major airlines have regular flights.

By Road

State transport services offer regular bus services from Udhampur, Jammu and Katra. You can avail buses as per your convenience.

By Rail

Nearest railway station from this temple is Jammu Tawai Railway Station. This station is well connected to other parts of the country. From here, one can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-June is considered to be the best time for a pilgrimage during the period between full moon and Chaudash. To make it more sacred, pilgrims are recommended to visit the temple between Punya Jayeshth purnima and Vayas purnima.

Accommodation

The city nearest to this temple is Patnitop. Tourists can avail accommodation facilities here. Budget as well as luxury hotels are available here. Oasis Resort at Patnitop has good staff and the location is great too. The hill side rooms are great options if you want great views. Sushant Hotel at Patnitop is popularly known for its world class service and affordable room rates. Jai Skahan Hotel is purely a budget hotel and offers inexpensive leaving. The hotel staff is friendly and cooperative here.

Other than these a few other renowned hotels are Holiday Inn Hotel, Greentop Hotel, Forest view Hotel and Vardaan Resort. All these hotels are well-known for their quality of service and the extra amenities that they offer to the guests.