Jammu and Kashmir is known for beautiful sceneries and the many religious places one can visit here. Its tourism is flourishing mainly due to the presence of several temples, where people from all over the world come to offer their prayers.

To the western part of Jammu lies the town of Chanhani where you can find a sacred temple named Sudh-Mahadev. It is built at a height of 1225 metres at a place near Patnitop, approximately 120 kilometres from Jammu. Devak Stream is seen to originate from this temple. A few kilometres down, this stream disappears into the rocks.

The temple, however, houses a natural lingam made from black marble. This temple has a three-faced idol of Shulpaneshwar Mahadev, Parvati and Ganesh. They are seen riding Nandi the Bull. It also has idols of Bhairava, Garbha Jun and Gorak Nath, because of which the temple is considered sacred for pilgrims. ‘Mitra vavli’ or ‘Papnashi Vavli’ is a small stream in the temple.

The Trishul or Trident in the temple premises, locally known as Gaja, carries inscriptions of ancient manuscripts. This has been a great topic of research for several years for archaeological scholars. Amardhuni is said to be the first religious head of this temple. Great sages and saints of Chanhani and the temple are heard singing poems of Lord Shiva and Parvati getting married in Mantalai.

History

This temple is said to be 80 years old. It is said to have been constructed by Chaudhari Ramdas along with his son Chaudhari Parag Mahajan. Sudh-Mahadev Temple has a beautiful entrance gate that was created by Shri Masu Shahane.

Traditionally, these temples were managed by the Pirs or Mahantas (religious heads). They were appointed by Kings reigning Chanhani. Once the reign of kings got over, management by Pirs weakened too. In 1959-60, Pir Dhuni was the last religious head who formed a committee that managed this temple and Shri Shiv Lal Sadathia became the head. This temple was finally given over to Dharmarth Trust, guided by Dr. Karan Singh.

Legend

It is believed that the Trishul at this temple belonged to God and he used it to kill a demon. The sacred fire or Dhooni commemorates Baba Roopnath’s spiritual attainments. He is believed to have attained Samadhi at this place. Dhooni is kept lighted since Baba started residing here. Legend also says that Lord Shiva had accidently killed one of his greatest devotees with this Trishul. While Lord Shiva was in Samadhi, he heard a loud cry from his consort Uma. Goddess Uma had given out a cry as she got scared when Sudheet, Lord’s devotee, approached her to offer his prayers. Sidheet had demonic appearance since he was a demon in his previous life. This had frightened Uma for which the Lord shot his Trishul. When the Lord realised his mistake he offered Sudheet resuscitation. But his devotee was determined to accept death given to him by the Lord. This got Lord Shiva to command that Sudheet’s name be used as a prefix to his name. Thus, the temple got its name Sudh Mahadev. The Trishul in its broken form is still there in the temple.

Major Attractions

Asad Purnima Festival

This festival is celebrated at the temple in mid-June every year. Pilgrims come from every part of the world to witness the three days of singing, music and dance.

Man Talai

About 5 km away from the temple tourists will find Man Talai, which of great archaeological significance as terra cotta figures and red earthenware were discovered here.

Gauri Kund

This is where a cave is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. You can see different sculptures at Pap Nashni Bauli springs. The highest mountain in this area is Shiv Garh.

How to Reach

The temple is 120 km away from Jammu and the nearest city is Udhampur.

By Air

Jammu Airport is closest to this temple. It is connected with all the major cities in the country. You can then reach the temple by taxi or bus.

By Road

State transport services offer bus services from Jammu, Udhampur and Katra for your convenience. There are regular buses on this route.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawai Railway Station that is well-connected with all major cities and towns in India. From the station you can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.

Best Time to Visit

The most auspicious time to visit for pilgrims is considered in June during the days that fall between full moon and Chaudash. If you undertake a pilgrimage between Punya Jayeshth purnima and Vayas purnima, it is considered the most sacred one.

During Chaudesh, a pilgrimage to Gauri Kund is considered to be sacred. Another sacred place called Nada, 2 kilometres on the mountains, can be reached from there.

Accommodation

Tourists can avail accommodation facilities at Patnitop, which is closest to the temple. All kinds of hotels are available here starting from budget to luxury. Oasis Resort at Patnitop is a great option. It has good staff and the location is good too. The hill side rooms offer great views from the room. Sushant Hotel is well-known for its world class service at affordable room tariffs. Jai Skahan Hotel is a pure budget hotel will cheap tariff rates. The service by the staff is good.

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