Baijnath is a small town in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, India. It is located near the banks of River Gomti. This place is famous for ancient temples. Baijnath is the capital of Katyuri Kings. They ruled this place between 7th century to 11th century AD. Trekking is another major attraction of this place. In the Kumaon Region, this is the most famous pilgrim place. Town is named after Baijnath temple. Lord Shiva is worshipped here. During Mahashivratri, tourists rush is more in this place.
Temple was constructed during Katyuri dynasty was in rule. Architecture of this temple is so attractive. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Shiva and Parvati got married at the place where River Gomti River and Garur River got confluence.
What to see in Baijnath:
Baijnath Temple: This temple complex was built during Katyuari dynasty in 1150. Lord Vaidyanatha incarnation of Lord Shiva is worshipped in this temple. Idol of Goddess Parvati is also worshipped here. This was made up of Black stone. This place has most historical significance. Other idols of this temple are Brahma, Surya, Kuber, Chandika, Parvati, and Ganesha. People believe that temple was constructed by Brahmin woman who built this temple. She was the devotee of Lord Shiva.
Bamani Temple: It is another attraction of Baijnath. This temple can be seen on the way to the main temple.
What to see around Baijnath:
Kot Bhramri Devi Temple: It is located just 2kms away from the Baijnath. Other name of this temple is Kota ka Mandir. It was once the fort of Katyuri Kings. It is also says that, Shankaracharya, Adi Guru, stayed at this place while he is travelling to Badrinath. Face of Goddess Bhramri should be seen by the priest itself. It this rule is not followed, Katur valley has to face serious disasters. Hence people see only backside of the Goddess. Radha Ashtami celebrates grandly during the month of September. Once in 12years, Raj Jaat Yatra celebrates here.
Bageshwar: It is located 26kms away from the town. During Makara Sankranti Season, big fair conducts here. This temple is situated at the place where confluence of River Gomti and River Sarayu takes place.
Kausani: It is located 17kms away from Baijnath. This place is famous for its scenic beauty. Mahatma Gandhi called this place as Switzerland of India. Kausani Attractions are Anasakti Ashram, Lakshmi Ashram, Sumitranandan Pant Gallery, Planet Show, Rudradhari Falls and Caves, Trekking.
Pant Museum: It is located 15kms away from Baijnath. Sumitranandan Pant, Hindi Literature’s home is now converted into museum. Museum consists of awards he received, his poet’s and manuscripts of literary works. Uttarakhand Archaeology department is managing this museum.
Getting to Baijnath: Baijnath is well connected with road ways. From Kausani, Pithoragarh, Nainital, Ranikhet, Almora etc buses come to this place. Rush is more to the buses. So visitors can opt for Tongas from Kausani. Nearest railway head is located at Kathgodam which is located 160kms away from the town. From Delhi, Jammu, Kanpur, Dehradun etc trains come to this place. Taxis are available to reach Baijnath from the railway station. Nearest airport is located at Pantnagar which is 175kms away from the town.
Getting around Baijnath: Baijnath can be explored on foot as it a small town. Buses and Taxis are available to visit the surrounding places to Baijnath.
Best time to visit Baijnath: It is advisable to avoid visit this place during the rainy season as this place is so slippery. Best time to visit this place is between September to May.
Where to stay in Baijnath: Limited accommodations are available to stay in Baijnath. Only Budget hotels are available. Visitors usually prefer to stay at Kausani which is 17kms away from the town.
Where to eat in Baijnath: Limited option to have food in Baijnath. In-house restaurants of the hotels are the best option to eat in Baijnath. Only vegetarian food is available. Continental, Indian and Chinese cuisines are available.