India is a land of diverse religions and cultures, and it is home to numerous pilgrimage sites that attract millions of devotees from across the world. One such unique destination is the Nartiang Temple in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, India. This ancient temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, is a place of great spiritual significance and attracts devotees from all over the country. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of the Nartiang Temple and why it is a must-visit for anyone seeking a spiritual experience in India.  

The History and Significance of Nartiang Temple  

The Nartiang Temple, also known as the Nartiang Durga Temple, is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the Jaintia Hills. It is believed to have been built by the Jaintia Kings, who ruled over the region from the 16th to the 18th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here in the form of a stone lingam, which is believed to be one of the oldest and largest in the region.  

The temple is situated in the small town of Nartiang, which is located about 60 km from the city of Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. It is surrounded by lush green hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The temple complex also includes several other shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Goddess Durga.  

The Architecture of Nartiang Temple  

The Nartiang Temple is renowned for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Jaintia styles. The temple is built using red sandstone, which gives it a distinctive look and feel. The main shrine of Lord Shiva is housed in a large hall, which is supported by several pillars and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.  

The temple complex also includes a large courtyard, which is used for various religious and cultural events throughout the year. The courtyard is surrounded by several smaller shrines, which house idols of various Hindu deities. The entire complex is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Jaintia Hills and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.  

The Significance of Nartiang Temple for Devotees  

The Nartiang Temple is a place of great significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that worshipping at the temple can bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to one's life. The temple is particularly important for the people of the Jaintia Hills, who consider it a symbol of their cultural identity and heritage.  

Every year, the temple attracts thousands of devotees from across the country, who come here to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple is also an important site for various religious and cultural events, including the annual Shivratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm.  

How to Reach Nartiang Temple  

The Nartiang Temple is located in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya and can be easily reached by road. The nearest airport is in Shillong, which is about 60 km from the temple. From Shillong, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nartiang. The town is also well-connected by road to other major cities in the region.  

Hidden facts about Nartiang Temple, Jaintia Hills:-

Nartiang Temple is a historical Hindu temple located in the Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, India. Here are some lesser-known facts about the temple:

Age: The Nartiang Temple is believed to be one of the oldest Shiva temples in the region and is estimated to be around 500 years old.

Shivling: The temple houses a unique Shivling made of crystalline stone that is believed to have been self-manifested. This Shivling is considered to be one of the holiest in the region.

Annual Fair: A grand annual fair called the 'Behdienkhlam' is held at the Nartiang Temple premises every year. The fair is celebrated in the month of July and is considered to be one of the biggest cultural festivals of Meghalaya.

Lingam Worship: The Nartiang Temple is one of the few temples in the country where both male and female devotees are allowed to perform Lingam worship.

Monoliths: The temple premises also house several ancient monoliths, some of which are believed to date back to the 16th century. These monoliths are considered to be a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the Jaintia Hills.

Legends: According to legend, the Nartiang Temple was built by the Khasi king, Nartiang, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. It is said that the king received a vision from Lord Shiva himself, asking him to build the temple in his honor.

Architecture: The temple's architecture is a unique blend of Hindu and indigenous Khasi styles. The temple's roof is made of bamboo and thatch, while its walls are made of brick and stone.

Location: The Nartiang Temple is located in the picturesque town of Nartiang, which is situated around 65 kilometers from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. The temple is situated at an altitude of 4,500 feet above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

How to reach Nartiang Temple, Jaintia Hills by train and nearest railway station?  

The nearest railway station to Nartiang Temple, Jaintia Hills is in Guwahati, Assam. From Guwahati, visitors can take a train or a bus to reach the town of Jowai, which is located approximately 40 kilometers from Nartiang. From Jowai, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nartiang and the temple.  

Alternatively, visitors can also take a train to the city of Shillong, Meghalaya, which is approximately 70 kilometers from Nartiang. From Shillong, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nartiang and the temple. The journey from Guwahati or Shillong to Nartiang is a scenic one, with beautiful views of the rolling hills and lush greenery of the region.  

How to reach Nartiang Temple, Jaintia Hills by air and nearest airport?  

The nearest airport to Nartiang Temple, Jaintia Hills is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the town of Jowai, which is located approximately 40 kilometers from Nartiang. From Jowai, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nartiang and the temple.  

Alternatively, visitors can also take a flight to the Shillong Airport, which is located approximately 70 kilometers from Nartiang. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nartiang and the temple. The journey from either Guwahati or Shillong to Nartiang is a scenic one, with beautiful views of the rolling hills and lush greenery of the region.  

Closure  

The Nartiang Temple is one of the most unique and significant pilgrimage destinations in India. Its rich history, unique architecture, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a spiritual experience. The serene atmosphere of the temple, coupled with the breathtaking beauty of the Jaintia Hills, makes it a truly memorable experience for all visitors. Whether you are a devotee seeking blessings from Lord Shiva or a traveler interested in history and architecture, the Nartiang Temple is an ideal destination for you.  

FAQs  

What is the significance of the Nartiang Temple in Hindu mythology?   

The Nartiang Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to house one of the oldest and largest lingams in the region. It is also an important site for various Hindu festivals and is considered a place of great spiritual significance.  

What is the best time to visit the Nartiang Temple?   

The best time to visit the Nartiang Temple is during the annual Shivratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. However, the temple can be visited throughout the year, and each season offers a unique experience.  

Is photography allowed inside the temple complex?  

 Yes, photography is allowed inside the temple complex, but visitors are requested to be respectful and mindful of the sanctity of the temple.  

Are there any accommodation options near the temple?  

There are several accommodation options available in the town of Nartiang, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose an option that suits their budget and preferences.  

Are there any other tourist attractions in the Jaintia Hills region?   

Yes, the Jaintia Hills region is home to several other tourist attractions, including the Krang Suri Waterfall, Dawki River, and the Nohkalikai Falls. Visitors can explore these sites to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region.