Airwan Temple

Airwan Temple

Hidden away in the peaceful surroundings of Jammu's Kathua district is the charming Airwan temple, a historical and cultural landmark. This historic temple attracts tourists from all over the world to marvel at its architectural beauty and learn more about its fascinating past. It is a testament to the rich heritage of the area. It is a well-known Shiva temple located in the village of Airwan. The temple dates back to the 4th century and is thought to have been built by King Vikramditya. The River Ravi is the source of the village's name, Airwan. This place hosts fairs during Baisakhi and Shivratri. Near the temple, there are lots of Bowlies where pilgrims bathe before worship. According to legend, Airwan is where Airawat, the famous king elephant, was reborn. It's said that during the descent of the Ganga river from heaven to earth, an obstruction arose from a stony mountain. Despite efforts, only Lord Indra's elephant, Airawat, could remove it. However, Airawat became prideful, claiming credit for Ganga's flow. In response, Ganga increased her flow, washing away the elephant to the underground realm known as "Pataal Lok." The stream that flowed secretly underground was named Patal Ganga or Gupt Ganga. Every year on "Chaitra Chaturdashi," which falls in March, a large crowd gathers at the temple to pay their respects to the sacred shrine of Lord Shiva and to take a holy dip. As holy as Ganga is the Gupt Ganga, the sacred stream that allowed Lord Indra to reclaim Airawat. Those who cannot afford to travel to Haridwar immerse deceased people's ashes in GUPT GANGA's holy water.