LAKHAMANDAL TEMPLE :

Lakhamandal situated in the Jaunsar Bawar region of Dehradun in Uttarakhand is an ancient Hindu Temple. Lakhamandal derives its name from two words Lakha meaning ‘many’ and Mandal meaning ‘temple’ or ‘lingam’. The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and quite popular with Shiv Bhaktas who visit this temple to end their misfortunes.

Lakhamandal temple is also famous as there is its mention in the Mahabharat.

LOCATION & HOW TO REACH

Lakhamandal temple is situated in the Lakhamandal village in the Jaunsar Bawar region of Dehradun in the state of Uttarakhand. It is 128kms from Dehradun and 35 kms from Chakrata on Mussoorie Yamunotri road just ahead of Kempty Falls which is another famous tourist attraction. Yamunotri is located just 75kms away. The river Yamuna runs alongside the village.

Dehradun railway station is just 107 kms away from Lakhamandal and Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun is about 130 kms away. Dehradun is easily connected via trains and roads from where shared or private taxis and busses are easily available. 

LEGENDS & MYTHS 

The main attraction of Lakhamandal temple is the graphite Lingam. The beauty of it is that it shines when wet and one can see yourself and its surroundings very clearly.

There are two twin statues located near the main shrine known as Manav and Danav. Locals believe that these two statues are of Pandava brothers Bhim and Arjun but according to archaeological survey these statues have its resemblance to Jai and Vijay the doormen to Lord Vishnu. The local belief is that someone dying or who has just died if they come in front of these statues they come to life for few moments before finally dying.

Another popular legend states that it was here that Duryodhana planned to burn the Pandavas alive (Lakshyagriha) but the Pandavas along with their mother Kunti escaped. A nearby cave which locals call is ‘Dhundhi Odaari’ (foggy cave) is where the Pandavas escaped to.

Another popular belief is the during Mahashivratri chanting Lord Shivas name blesses fertility to women who seek them. Hence during Mahashivratri people from all over come and visit this temple.