Alakhnath Temple
Shree Baba Alakhnath Ji Mandir is one of the four legendary Natha (Shiva) temples defining the four corners of the ancient city of Bareilly (the city is known as NathNagri). This centuries-old temple, believed to have been constructed in the 12th century, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned as the primary akhara (base) for the Naga Sadhus (ascetics) of the area, belonging to the Nath sect. The temple complex is unique because it is situated beneath the naturally formed Shivling of an extremely old banyan tree, and it is traditionally managed by the Naga Sadhus who perform their own rituals. The temple is named after Saint Alakhiya, who performed penance under the banyan tree centuries ago. The complex offers a stark, serene, and unique spiritual experience, contrasting with mainstream Hindu temples, and is particularly noted for its 51-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman in the courtyard, which is a significant landmark. The temple complex is a blend of large and small shrines, both indoor and outdoor, and is a major center for pilgrimage and spiritual seeking.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration:
1-2 Hours:Place Type:
Category:
Pilgrimage & Spirituality:Entry Fees:
Free of Cost:
Temple Entry: There are absolutely no entry fees for visiting the temple complex, as it is a place of worship for all.
Offerings: Devotees can purchase flowers, prasad, or other offerings from ...Free of Cost:
Temple Entry: There are absolutely no entry fees for visiting the temple complex, as it is a place of worship for all.
Offerings: Devotees can purchase flowers, prasad, or other offerings from outside stalls, but this is voluntary.
Donations: Voluntary donations towards the temple's upkeep or the maintenance of the Naga Sadhus are accepted, but never mandatory.
Photography: No special fees are levied for general photography, though flash photography or photography inside the main sanctum is usually prohibited.Timing:
Open 24 Hours, Day is Best:
Regular Timings: The temple complex is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing devotees to visit at any hour.
Worship Times: Peak hours for ritual and aarti are typically ear...Open 24 Hours, Day is Best:
Regular Timings: The temple complex is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing devotees to visit at any hour.
Worship Times: Peak hours for ritual and aarti are typically early morning (around 6:00 AM) and evening (around 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM).
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) is ideal for a quiet visit and reflection, while the evening is best for experiencing the spiritual chants and the illuminated temple atmosphere, avoiding the midday heat and the rush of devotees.Special Events:
Shivaratri Festival:
Maha Shivaratri: This is the most important festival celebrated with immense fervor, drawing thousands of devotees for special pujas, aartis, and all-night vigils dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Gu...Shivaratri Festival:
Maha Shivaratri: This is the most important festival celebrated with immense fervor, drawing thousands of devotees for special pujas, aartis, and all-night vigils dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Guru Purnima: The festival dedicated to spiritual teachers is celebrated with significance by the Nath sect, with special ceremonies and gatherings of ascetics and followers at their main Akhara.
Hanuman Jayanti: The birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman is marked by a grand celebration, particularly at the site of the large statue, with special prayers, recitations of the Hanuman Chalisa, and communal feasts.Best Photo Spots:
Photo Spots:
Hanuman Statue Base: The area directly in front of the 51-foot statue of Lord Hanuman is the most photogenic spot, especially from a low angle to emphasize its towering height against the temple backdrop.
Read MorePhoto Spots:
Hanuman Statue Base: The area directly in front of the 51-foot statue of Lord Hanuman is the most photogenic spot, especially from a low angle to emphasize its towering height against the temple backdrop.
The Banyan Tree Sanctum: The ancient banyan tree enveloping the main Shivling structure is a unique and spiritual photo opportunity, symbolizing the union of nature and worship.
Elaborate Gate: The main entrance gate, often adorned with carvings and vibrant colors, provides a classic temple-style photograph.
Courtyard Life: Candid shots of the temple life—devotees performing rituals or the Naga Sadhus gathered (always with respect and permission)—capture the unique atmosphere.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Seek Blessings from Lord Shiva and Hanuman:
Perform Self-Ritual: Unlike most temples, you should perform your own offerings (puja) to the svayambhu Shivling under the Banyan tree, a distinct spiritual experience.
Observe the Naga Sadhus: Spend time respectfully observing the lives and practices of the resident Naga Sadhus (ascetics), who embody a unique tradition of Hindu spiritualism.
Pray at Hanuman Statue: Offer prayers at the monumental 51-foot statue of Lord Hanuman in the courtyard.
Circumambulation (Parikrama): Perform a parikrama around the main sanctum and the banyan tree to soak in the ancient, serene atmosphere and spiritual energy.
Photography of Architecture: Capture the impressive s...Seek Blessings from Lord Shiva and Hanuman:
Perform Self-Ritual: Unlike most temples, you should perform your own offerings (puja) to the svayambhu Shivling under the Banyan tree, a distinct spiritual experience.
Observe the Naga Sadhus: Spend time respectfully observing the lives and practices of the resident Naga Sadhus (ascetics), who embody a unique tradition of Hindu spiritualism.
Pray at Hanuman Statue: Offer prayers at the monumental 51-foot statue of Lord Hanuman in the courtyard.
Circumambulation (Parikrama): Perform a parikrama around the main sanctum and the banyan tree to soak in the ancient, serene atmosphere and spiritual energy.
Photography of Architecture: Capture the impressive scale of the Hanuman statue and the intricate details of the exterior temple architecture (Note: Photography may be restricted inside the main sanctum).
Visit Local Market: Explore the small stalls and shops outside the temple that sell prasad, flowers, and religious artifacts, engaging with the local economy and culture.
Meditation: Find a quiet corner in the expansive courtyard to sit and meditate, leveraging the temple's profound spiritual aura and tranquil environment.
Information
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Why Famous:
Famous:
Naga Sadhus and Ancient Shivling:
Naga Base: It is famous as the headquarters (Akhara) of the Naga Sadhus (ascetics) in the region, offering a rare glimpse into their unique lifestyle and spiritual pra...Famous:
Naga Sadhus and Ancient Shivling:
Naga Base: It is famous as the headquarters (Akhara) of the Naga Sadhus (ascetics) in the region, offering a rare glimpse into their unique lifestyle and spiritual practices.
The Natha Circle: It is one of the four essential Natha temples (Alakhnath, Trivati Nath, Madni Nath, Dhopeshwar Nath) that historically mark the boundary and spiritual protection of Bareilly, earning the city the title NathNagri.
Historical Shelter: It is celebrated for having provided refuge to numerous saints and devotees during the destruction of temples in the late 17th century, according to local legend, remaining untouched by external invaders. -
Architecture:
The Spiritual Citadel of the Nath Sect:
Style: The architecture is a traditional North Indian Hindu temple style, characterized by a complex of structures built around a central courtyard, which evolved over centuries due to various addition...The Spiritual Citadel of the Nath Sect:
Style: The architecture is a traditional North Indian Hindu temple style, characterized by a complex of structures built around a central courtyard, which evolved over centuries due to various additions and expansions.
The Banyan Sanctuary: The most unique architectural feature is the main sanctum, which is literally beneath the massive, ancient Banyan tree, integrating nature and divinity. The Shivling is considered svayambhu (self-manifested).
Dimension: The most prominent feature is the 51-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman standing in the expansive open courtyard, a striking example of modern monumental religious art, which dominates the complex's skyline.
Outer Design: The temple exterior features elaborate characteristics, sometimes incorporating vibrant paintings and sculptures, leading through a prominent gate to the inner complex, which offers a serene and introspective atmosphere. -
How To Reach:
Easily Accessible within City Limits:
By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 84 KMS away. A taxi from the airport is the most convenient option to reach the temple.
By Train: Bare...Easily Accessible within City Limits:
By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 84 KMS away. A taxi from the airport is the most convenient option to reach the temple.
By Train: Bareilly Junction (BE) is the major railway station. The temple is just a few kilometers away. One can easily hire an auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, or a local cab from the station.
By Road: The temple is located on State Highway 37 in the Quilla Chhawni area, making it easily reachable by local buses or private vehicles from any part of Bareilly city.
By Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available throughout the city and are the best way to get around the local streets and reach the temple from the main bus stand or railway station. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter and Festival Season:
Seasons: The winter season (October to March) is the most comfortable time to visit, as the weather is cool and pleasant for a religious visit. The Monsoon season is beautiful but can make the surroundings damp. ...Winter and Festival Season:
Seasons: The winter season (October to March) is the most comfortable time to visit, as the weather is cool and pleasant for a religious visit. The Monsoon season is beautiful but can make the surroundings damp.
Festival Time: Visiting during Maha Shivaratri (Feb/March) or Guru Purnima (July) provides the most vibrant and spiritual experience of the temple life and the Naga Sadhus.
Time of Day: Evenings are vibrant with aarti and chants, while early mornings are the quietest for a personal spiritual experience, offering a serene atmosphere. -
Near Tourist Places:
Near Tourist Places:
Chunne Miyan's Lakshmi Narayan Temple (3 KMS):
Dargah-e-Ala-Hazrat (7 KMS):
Gandhi Udhyan Park (4 KMS): Trivati Nath Temple (
5 KMS):
Bareilly Junction Railway Station (3 KMS):
Jagannath Temple (4 KMS): Children's Park (4.
5 KMS):
Phoenix United Mall (7 KMS):
Jat Regimental Centre (
5 KMS):
Sadar Bazaar (3 KMS):
Tourism Tips
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Dress Code and Respect:
Health & Safety: The complex is generally safe, but be mindful of the open courtyard and the ancient banyan roots. Carry a small water bottle.
Packing: Keep your camera handy but be ...Dress Code and Respect:
Health & Safety: The complex is generally safe, but be mindful of the open courtyard and the ancient banyan roots. Carry a small water bottle.
Packing: Keep your camera handy but be discreet and respectful, especially near the main dhuni and the ascetics.
Accommodation: Numerous hotels are available in the close vicinity of the Civil Lines and Qila areas of Bareilly.
Cultural Respect: Visitors must dress modestly, cover their shoulders and knees, and remove footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography is restricted inside the main shrine. Do not disturb the Naga Sadhus while they are meditating or performing rituals.
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