India is known for its rich cultural and religious diversity, and it is no surprise that it is home to many pilgrimage sites. Among these sites is the Sharda Temple, a revered shrine located in the town of Sharda in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. This temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, is one of the most important and sacred pilgrimage destinations in India. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Sharda Temple and what makes it such a popular destination for pilgrims.  

Overview of Sharda Temple  

The Sharda Temple is situated in the Neelam Valley, near the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan. The temple is located on the banks of the river Kishanganga, which is also known as the Neelam river. The temple is believed to have been built during the 9th century AD, and it has been a significant site for Hindu worship ever since.  

Significance of Sharda Temple  

The Sharda Temple is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, who is considered to be the goddess of knowledge, music, and art. The temple is believed to be one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, which are considered to be the most sacred shrines of the Hindu faith. According to legend, the goddess Sati's right hand fell at this location during the time of Lord Shiva's Tandava dance. The temple is also mentioned in several ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Skanda Purana and the Kalika Purana.  

Architecture of Sharda Temple  

The Sharda Temple is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The temple has a unique architectural style that is a blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. The temple is made of grey stone, and it has a shikhara-style roof with a pinnacle that rises to a height of 10 meters. The temple has a main sanctum, which houses the idol of the goddess Saraswati, along with several smaller shrines that are dedicated to other Hindu deities.  

Festivals and Celebrations at Sharda Temple  

The Sharda Temple is a hub of activity throughout the year, with several festivals and celebrations taking place. The most significant festival celebrated at the temple is the Sharada Navratri, which is a nine-day festival that is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati. The festival usually falls in the months of September or October, and it is celebrated with great pomp and splendor. Other festivals that are celebrated at the temple include Shivratri, Diwali, and Holi.  

How to Reach Sharda Temple  

The Sharda Temple is located in a remote part of Jammu and Kashmir, and reaching the temple can be a bit of a challenge. The nearest airport is in Srinagar, which is around 200 kilometers away from the temple. From Srinagar, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the town of Sharda. The temple is around 20 kilometers from Sharda, and one can hire a local taxi or take a shared jeep to reach the temple.  

Accommodation at Sharda Temple  

There are several budget hotels and guesthouses available in the town of Sharda, which provide basic accommodation facilities for pilgrims. However, if you are looking for more luxurious accommodation options, then you may have to travel to the nearby towns of Dawar or Kel. It is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak season.  

Safety Tips for Visiting Sharda Temple  

The Sharda Temple is located in a remote and politically sensitive area, and visitors are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the temple. Visitors should check the latest security situation before embarking on their journey to the temple. It is also recommended to travel in groups and hire a local guide to ensure a safe and hassle-free visit. Visitors should carry their identity cards at all times and follow the instructions of the local authorities.  

Best Time to Visit Sharda Temple  

The best time to visit the Sharda Temple is between the months of May and September when the weather is pleasant, and the road conditions are good. During the winter months, the temple is covered in snow, and the road conditions can be challenging, making it difficult to access the temple.  

Things to Do at Sharda Temple  

Apart from offering prayers at the temple, there are several other activities that visitors can indulge in. The Neelam Valley is known for its natural beauty, and visitors can take a stroll along the river Kishanganga or go for a trek in the surrounding hills. There are also several small villages around the temple, which offer a glimpse into the local way of life.  

Hidden facts about Sharda Temple:-

Here are some lesser-known facts about Sharda Temple:

Historical significance: The temple is believed to date back to the 8th century CE, making it one of the oldest surviving Hindu temples in the region. It was once an important center of learning and pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists alike.

Location: Sharda Temple is situated on the banks of the River Neelam, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and scenic valleys. The temple's location makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Reconstruction: The temple was damaged over the centuries due to wars and natural disasters, and it underwent extensive restoration work in the early 2000s. The restoration work was carried out by the governments of Pakistan and India, as a symbol of peace and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Religious significance: Sharda Temple is considered a sacred site by Hindus, and it attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple's sanctum sanctorum houses an ancient idol of Saraswati, which is believed to have been installed by the great sage Adi Shankaracharya.

Mythology: According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, had visited the temple during his exile period. The temple is also mentioned in the Skanda Purana, one of the eighteen Mahapuranas of Hinduism.

Despite its historical and religious significance, Sharda Temple remains relatively unknown to many people outside of the region. Nevertheless, it continues to draw visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its beauty and soak in its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

How to reach Sharda Temple by train and nearest railway station?  

The nearest railway station to Sharda Temple is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is located approximately 325 kilometers away. From Jammu, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the town of Sharda, which is the closest settlement to the temple. However, the roads leading to the temple can be challenging, especially during the winter months when the area is covered in snow. It is, therefore, advisable to hire a local guide or a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the roads safely.  

There are several other railway stations located in the vicinity of Sharda Temple, including the Udhampur Railway Station, which is approximately 310 kilometers away, and the Kathua Railway Station, which is around 350 kilometers away. However, these stations are relatively smaller and may not have direct connections to major cities in India. Visitors can also consider taking a train to Srinagar, which is located approximately 200 kilometers away, and then hiring a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.  

How to reach Sharda Temple by road and nearest bus stand?  

Sharda Temple is located in the Neelam Valley, which is accessible by road from several major cities in northern India. Visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities such as Jammu, Srinagar, and Pahalgam to reach the town of Sharda, which is the nearest settlement to the temple. However, the roads leading to the temple can be challenging, especially during the winter months when the area is covered in snow.  

The nearest bus stand to Sharda Temple is located in the town of Sharda, which is approximately 8 kilometers away from the temple. Visitors can take a local bus or hire a taxi from the bus stand to reach the temple. It is also possible to hire a four-wheel-drive vehicle or a local guide to navigate the roads leading to the temple safely.  

There are several other bus stands located in the vicinity of Sharda Temple, including the Jammu Bus Stand, which is approximately 325 kilometers away, and the Srinagar Bus Stand, which is around 200 kilometers away. Visitors can take a bus from these stands to reach the town of Sharda and then hire a taxi or a local guide to reach the temple.  

How to reach Sharda Temple by air and nearest airport?  

The nearest airport to Sharda Temple is the Srinagar International Airport, which is located approximately 200 kilometers away. Visitors can take a flight from major cities in India to reach the airport and then hire a taxi or a bus to reach the town of Sharda, which is the nearest settlement to the temple. However, the roads leading to the temple can be challenging, especially during the winter months when the area is covered in snow. It is, therefore, advisable to hire a local guide or a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the roads safely.  

Closure  

The Sharda Temple is a must-visit pilgrimage destination for anyone interested in exploring India's rich religious and cultural heritage. The temple's stunning architecture, beautiful location, and religious significance make it a popular destination for pilgrims from all over the world. Despite its remote location, the temple's unique charm and spiritual aura make it well worth the effort to visit.  

FAQs  

Is it safe to visit Sharda Temple?  

Visitors are advised to check the latest security situation before traveling to the temple and to take appropriate precautions.  

When is the best time to visit Sharda Temple?  

The best time to visit the temple is between May and September when the weather is pleasant and the road conditions are good.  

What are the accommodation options near Sharda Temple?  

There are several budget hotels and guesthouses available in the town of Sharda, while more luxurious options can be found in nearby towns.  

What are the activities that visitors can do at Sharda Temple?  

Visitors can indulge in activities such as taking a stroll along the river, going for a trek in the hills, or exploring nearby villages.  

How old is Sharda Temple?  

The temple is believed to have been built during the 9th century AD.