Triyuginarayan Temple - Revision history

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	{{Famous Vishnu temples}}		{{Famous Vishnu temples}}
	{{Hindu ~~temples~~ in Uttarakhand}}		{{Hindu Temples in Uttarakhand}}

	[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]		[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]

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	\| map_caption =		\| map_caption =
	\| coordinates =		\| coordinates =
	\| country = [[India]]		\| country = India
	\| state = [[Uttarakhand]]		\| state = [[Uttarakhand]]
	\| district = [[Rudraprayag district\|Rudraprayag]]		\| district = [[Rudraprayag district\|Rudraprayag]]
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	\| website =		\| website =
	}}		}}
	'''Triyuginarayan Temple''' ({{lang-sa\|त्रियुगी-नारायण}}) is a [[Hindu temple]] located in the Triyuginarayan village in [[Rudraprayag district]], [[Uttarakhand~~\|Uttarakhand~~,India]]. The ancient temple is dedicated to god [[Vishnu]]. Its fame is credited to the legend of god [[Shiva]]’s marriage to goddess [[Parvati]] witnessed by Vishnu at this venue and is thus a popular [[Hindu pilgrimage sites]].<ref name=vishnu>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.indyahills.com/garhwal/temples/tm_uk_grh.htm \|title=Places of worship: Vishnu Temple\|accessdate=25 July 2009}}</ref><ref name=trig>{{Cite web\|url=http://rudraprayag.nic.in/Triyujinarayan.htm\|title= Triyuginarayan\|accessdate=25 July 2009\|publisher=National Informatic Centre}}</ref> A special feature of this temple is a perpetual fire, that burns in front of the temple. The flame is believed to burn from the times of the divine marriage.<ref name = "kedarnath">{{cite web\|url=http://www.badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/content-kedar.aspx?id=52\|title=Temples Attached to Shri Kedarnath Temple\|year=2006\|publisher=Shri Badrinath Shri Kedarnth Temple Committee\|accessdate=12 August 2009}}</ref> Thus, the temple is also known as '''Akhand Dhuni temple'''.		'''Triyuginarayan Temple''' ({{lang-sa\|त्रियुगी-नारायण}}) is a [[Hindu temple]] located in the Triyuginarayan village in [[Rudraprayag district]], [[Uttarakhand]], India. The ancient temple is dedicated to god [[Vishnu]]. Its fame is credited to the legend of god [[Shiva]]’s marriage to goddess [[Parvati]] witnessed by Vishnu at this venue and is thus a popular [[Hindu pilgrimage sites]].<ref name=vishnu>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.indyahills.com/garhwal/temples/tm_uk_grh.htm \|title=Places of worship: Vishnu Temple\|accessdate=25 July 2009}}</ref><ref name=trig>{{Cite web\|url=http://rudraprayag.nic.in/Triyujinarayan.htm\|title= Triyuginarayan\|accessdate=25 July 2009\|publisher=National Informatic Centre}}</ref> A special feature of this temple is a perpetual fire, that burns in front of the temple. The flame is believed to burn from the times of the divine marriage.<ref name = "kedarnath">{{cite web\|url=http://www.badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/content-kedar.aspx?id=52\|title=Temples Attached to Shri Kedarnath Temple\|year=2006\|publisher=Shri Badrinath Shri Kedarnth Temple Committee\|accessdate=12 August 2009}}</ref> Thus, the temple is also known as '''Akhand Dhuni temple'''.

	The temple courtyard is also the source of a water stream, which fills three sacred bathing ponds (kunds) nearby.		The temple courtyard is also the source of a water stream, which fills three sacred bathing ponds (kunds) nearby.
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	==Legend==		==Legend==
	[[File:Ellora-caves-1.jpg\|thumb\|Wall carvings in [[Ellora Caves]]- A scene depicting the wedding of Shiva (four armed figure, right) and Parvati (two armed, left).]]		[[File:Ellora-caves-1.jpg\|thumb\|Wall carvings in [[Ellora Caves]] - a scene depicting the wedding of Shiva (four armed figure, right) and Parvati (two armed, left)]]

	According to Hindu dharma, goddess Parvati was daughter of [[Himavat]] or Himavan – the personification of the Himalayas. She was the rebirth of [[Dakshayani\|Sati]], the first wife of Shiva – who sacrificed her life when her father insulted Shiva. Parvati initially tried to allure Shiva by her beauty, but failed. Finally, she won Shiva by practising rigorous penance at [[Gauri Kund]], which is {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} away from Triyuginarayan. Pilgrims visiting Triyuginaryan temple also visit the Gauri Kund temple, dedicated to Parvati, which is the base camp for trek to [[Kedarnath Temple]].<ref>[http://www.euttaranchal.com/uttarakhand/gauri-kund Gauri Kund]</ref> Mythology states that Shiva proposed to Parvati at [[Guptakashi]], before they got married in the small Triyuginarayan village at the confluence of [[Mandakini River\|Mandakini]] and Sone-Ganga rivers.<ref name =roma>{{Cite book\|author= Roma Bradnock\|title= Indian Himalaya handbook\|work=Kedarnath\|pages=113–114\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TyZGp_YVzb8C&pg=PA114\|publisher= Footprint Travel Guides\|year= 2000\|isbn=9781900949798}}</ref>		According to Hindu dharma, goddess Parvati was daughter of [[Himavat]] or Himavan – the personification of the Himalayas. She was the rebirth of [[Dakshayani\|Sati]], the first wife of Shiva – who sacrificed her life when her father insulted Shiva. Parvati initially tried to allure Shiva by her beauty, but failed. Finally, she won Shiva by practising rigorous penance at [[Gauri Kund]], which is {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} away from Triyuginarayan. Pilgrims visiting Triyuginaryan temple also visit the Gauri Kund temple, dedicated to Parvati, which is the base camp for trek to [[Kedarnath Temple]].<ref>[http://www.euttaranchal.com/uttarakhand/gauri-kund Gauri Kund]</ref> Mythology states that Shiva proposed to Parvati at [[Guptakashi]], before they got married in the small Triyuginarayan village at the confluence of [[Mandakini River\|Mandakini]] and Sone-Ganga rivers.<ref name =roma>{{Cite book\|author= Roma Bradnock\|title= Indian Himalaya handbook\|work=Kedarnath\|pages=113–114\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TyZGp_YVzb8C&pg=PA114\|publisher= Footprint Travel Guides\|year= 2000\|isbn=9781900949798}}</ref>

	Triyuginarayan is believed to be the capital of Himavat. It was the venue of the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati, during the [[Satya Yuga]], witnessed in the presence of the holy fire that still burns eternally in front of the temple in a [[Yajna\|Havana]]-kund or Agni-kund, a four-cornered fireplace on the ground. Vishnu formalised the wedding and acted as Parvati's brother in the ceremonies, while the creator-god [[Brahma]] acted as the priest of the wedding, that was witnessed by all the sages of the times. The exact location of the wedding is marked by a stone called Brahma Shila, in front of the temple.<ref name=trig/><ref name=badri>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.badrikedar.com/temple/Triyuginarayan.html\|title= Triyuginarayan Temple\|accessdate=25 July 2009\|publisher=Kedarnath.com}}</ref><ref name = bansal/> The greatness of this place is also recorded in a [[Purana\|sthala-purana]] (a scripture specific to a pilgrimage centre). According to the scripture, pilgrims who visit this temple consider the ashes from the burning fire as holy and carry it with them.<ref name=Mittal>{{Cite book\|last=Mittal\|first=Sushil\|author2=G.R.Thursby \|title= The Hindu world\|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=fz6KBkgEacAC~~&dq=The+Hindu+World&printsec=frontcover&source=bl&ots=o9uJEJ8Sk9&sig=PlXMAOJJc2A1EN492ciRMeeIg1o&hl=en&ei=MeGGSt7xD5KK6APx8qX6Aw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1#v=onepage~~&q=Triyuginarayan~~&f=false~~\|work=Triyuginarayan temple\|page=480\|accessdate=14 August 2009		Triyuginarayan is believed to be the capital of Himavat. It was the venue of the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati, during the [[Satya Yuga]], witnessed in the presence of the holy fire that still burns eternally in front of the temple in a [[Yajna\|Havana]]-kund or Agni-kund, a four-cornered fireplace on the ground. Vishnu formalised the wedding and acted as Parvati's brother in the ceremonies, while the creator-god [[Brahma]] acted as the priest of the wedding, that was witnessed by all the sages of the times. The exact location of the wedding is marked by a stone called Brahma Shila, in front of the temple.<ref name=trig/><ref name=badri>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.badrikedar.com/temple/Triyuginarayan.html\|title= Triyuginarayan Temple\|accessdate=25 July 2009\|publisher=Kedarnath.com}}</ref><ref name = bansal/> The greatness of this place is also recorded in a [[Purana\|sthala-purana]] (a scripture specific to a pilgrimage centre). According to the scripture, pilgrims who visit this temple consider the ashes from the burning fire as holy and carry it with them.<ref name=Mittal>{{Cite book\|last=Mittal\|first=Sushil\|author2=G.R.Thursby \|title= The Hindu world\|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=fz6KBkgEacAC&q=Triyuginarayan\|work=Triyuginarayan temple\|page=480\|accessdate=14 August 2009
	\|publisher= Routledge\|year=2004\|isbn= 9780415215275}}</ref> It is also believed that ashes from this fire are supposed to promote conjugal bliss.<ref name=vishnu/><ref name=trig/> ~~efore~~ the marriage ceremony		\|publisher= Routledge\|year=2004\|isbn= 9780415215275}}</ref> It is also believed that ashes from this fire are supposed to promote conjugal bliss.<ref name=vishnu/><ref name=trig/> Before the marriage ceremony, there were no people who witnessed the incident, the gods are believed to have taken bath in four kunds or small ponds namely, [[Rudra]]-kund, Vishnu-kund and [[Brahma]]-kund. The inflow into the three kunds is from the [[Saraswati]]-kund, which – according to legend – originated from Vishnu's navel. Hence, the water of these kunds is considered to cure infertility. The ashes from Havana-kund are supposed to promote conjugal bliss.<ref name=trig/>
	,~~here~~ were no people who witnessed the incident
	, the gods are believed to have taken bath in four kunds or small ponds namely, [[Rudra]]-kund, Vishnu-kund and [[Brahma]]-kund. The inflow into the three kunds is from the [[Saraswati]]-kund, which – according to legend – originated from Vishnu's navel. Hence, the water of these kunds is considered to cure infertility. The ashes from Havana-kund are supposed to promote conjugal bliss.<ref name=trig/>

	==Structure==		==Structure==
	{{Hinduism}}		{{Hinduism}}
	The Triyuginarayan temple resembles the temple of [[Kedarnath]] in architectural style and hence attracts a lot of devotees. The present shrine is also called as ''Akhand Dhuni temple''. It is believed to have been built by [[Adi Shankara]]charya. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with building many temples in the Uttarakhand region. The shrine houses a silver, 2-foot image of god Vishnu (Narayana), accompanied with consort – goddess of wealth [[Lakshmi]] and the goddess of music and learning – [[Saraswati]].<ref name="bansal">{{cite book\|last=Bansal\|first=Sunita Pant\|title=Hindu Pilgrimage\|pages=31\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=F303Zb7EC0kC~~&pg=PT31~~&dq=Triyugi+narayan&lr=~~&as_brr=3&client=firefox-a#v=onepage&q=&f=false~~ \| isbn=978-81-223-0997-3 \| year=2008 \| publisher=Pustak Mahal}}</ref>		The Triyuginarayan temple resembles the temple of [[Kedarnath]] in architectural style and hence attracts a lot of devotees. The present shrine is also called as ''Akhand Dhuni temple''. It is believed to have been built by [[Adi Shankara]]charya. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with building many temples in the Uttarakhand region. The shrine houses a silver, 2-foot image of god Vishnu (Narayana), accompanied with consort – goddess of wealth [[Lakshmi]] and the goddess of music and learning – [[Saraswati]].<ref name="bansal">{{cite book\|last=Bansal\|first=Sunita Pant\|title=Hindu Pilgrimage\|pages=31\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=F303Zb7EC0kC&dq=Triyugi+narayan&pg=PT31 \| isbn=978-81-223-0997-3 \| year=2008 \| publisher=Pustak Mahal}}</ref>

			In front of the temple, the havana-kund with the eternal flame - the witness of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati - is situated. Devotees add samidha (sacrificial offerings of wood) to the flame and collect the ashes as blessings. A stone called the Brahma Shila – in front of temple – is regarded as the exact spot of the divine marriage.<ref name="bansal"/> A water stream called Saraswati Ganga originates in the courtyard of the temple. It fills all the holy ponds in the vicinity.<ref name = "kedarnath"/> The ponds of Rudra Kund, Vishnu Kund, Brahma Kund and Saraswati Kund are holy spots situated near the temple. Rudra Kund is for bathing, Vishnu for cleansing, Brahma for sipping and Saraswati for offering libations.

	In front of the temple, the havana-kund with the eternal flame - the witness of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati - is situated. Devotees add samidha (sacrificial offerings of wood) to the flame and collect the ashes as blessings. A stone called the Brahma Shila – in front of temple – is regarded as the exact spot of the divine marriage.<ref name="bansal"/> A water stream called Saraswati Ganga originates in the courtyard of the temple. It fills all the holy ponds in the vicinity.<ref name = "kedarnath"/> The ponds of Rudra Kund, Vishnu Kund, Brahma Kund and Saraswati Kund are holy spots situated near the temple.Rudra Kund is for bathing, Vishnu for cleansing, Brahma for sipping and Saraswati for offering libations.		[[File:Triyuginarayan Temple - OCT 2014 Pic1.JPG\|thumb\|Triyuginarayan Temple, Oct. 2014]]
	~~There is no place in the history of religion regarding witnesses to the event~~		[[File:Triyuginarayan Temple - OCT 2014 Pic2.JPG\|thumb\|Triyuginarayan Temple, Oct. 2014]]
	[File:Triyuginarayan Temple - OCT 2014 Pic1.JPG\|thumb\|Triyuginarayan Temple ~~– OCT~~ 2014 ~~Pic1~~]]
	[[File:Triyuginarayan Temple - OCT 2014 Pic2.JPG\|thumb\|Triyuginarayan Temple ~~– OCT~~ 2014 ~~Pic2~~]]

	==Geography==		==Geography==
	The ~~Triguninarayan village~~ is located at an altitude of {{convert\|1980\|m\|ft}} about {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} away from Sonprayag, the confluence of Mandakini and Songanga rivers.<ref name =roma/> The geographical belt is {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} away from Sonprayag that extends to {{convert\|14\|km\|mi}} between Triyugninarayan and Toshi villages with an average altitude of {{convert\|2200\|m\|ft}} that has favourable agro-climatic conditions for growing horticultural crops such as apple and stone fruits. During the three winter months, the area is covered by snow.<ref name=sati>{{Cite book\|author= Vishwambhar Prasad Sati\|title= Horticultural Development in Hills\|work= Trigunnarayan –Tishi belt\|page=99\|accessdate=25 July 2009\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vbfBfIM79OYC&pg=PA99\|publisher= Mittal Publications\|year=1905\|isbn=9788170999430}}</ref>		The Triyuginarayan Temple is located at an altitude of {{convert\|1980\|m\|ft}} about {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} away from Sonprayag, the confluence of Mandakini and Songanga rivers.<ref name =roma/> The geographical belt is {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} away from Sonprayag that extends to {{convert\|14\|km\|mi}} between Triyugninarayan and Toshi villages with an average altitude of {{convert\|2200\|m\|ft}} that has favourable agro-climatic conditions for growing horticultural crops such as apple and stone fruits. During the three winter months, the area is covered by snow.<ref name=sati>{{Cite book\|author= Vishwambhar Prasad Sati\|title= Horticultural Development in Hills\|work= Trigunnarayan –Tishi belt\|page=99\|accessdate=25 July 2009\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vbfBfIM79OYC&pg=PA99\|publisher= Mittal Publications\|year=1905\|isbn=9788170999430}}</ref>

	==Access==		==Access==
	Access to the Triyuginarayan village where the temple is located is about {{convert\|12\|km\|mi}} from Sonprayag on motorable road till the temple. There exist a few trek routes too, like a short trek of {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} via Sonprayag on the Ghuttur –Kedarnath bridle path that passes through thick forest area is involved to reach the temple precincts. From Kedarnath, which is to the ~~south~~ of this temple the total trekking distance is about {{convert\|25\|km\|mi}}. Ghuttur is around {{convert\|12\|km\|mi}} from Sonprayag, which is connected by road with [[Haridwar]] and other important hill stations of the [[Garhwal Division\|Garhwal]] and [[Kumaon Division\|Kumaon]] Hills. The nearest airport is [[Dehra Dun]], {{convert\|244\|km\|mi}} from Triyuginarayan, but it is better to start the journey from Delhi. [[Rishikesh]] is the nearest railway station, {{convert\|261\|km\|mi}} from the site.<ref name=badri/><ref>{{cite book\|title=The Hindu World\|author=Sushil Mittal, G. R.Thursby\|year=2004\|publisher=Routledge\|isbn=0-415-21527-7}}</ref>		Access to the Triyuginarayan village where the temple is located is about {{convert\|12\|km\|mi}} from Sonprayag on motorable road till the temple. There exist a few trek routes too, like a short trek of {{convert\|5\|km\|mi}} via Sonprayag on the Ghuttur –Kedarnath bridle path that passes through thick forest area is involved to reach the temple precincts. From Kedarnath, which is to the north of this temple the total trekking distance is about {{convert\|25\|km\|mi}}. Ghuttur is around {{convert\|12\|km\|mi}} from Sonprayag, which is connected by road with [[Haridwar]] and other important hill stations of the [[Garhwal Division\|Garhwal]] and [[Kumaon Division\|Kumaon]] Hills. The nearest airport is [[Dehra Dun]], {{convert\|244\|km\|mi}} from Triyuginarayan, but it is better to start the journey from Delhi. [[Rishikesh]] is the nearest railway station, {{convert\|261\|km\|mi}} from the site.<ref name=badri/><ref>{{cite book\|title=The Hindu World\|author=Sushil Mittal, G. R.Thursby\|year=2004\|publisher=Routledge\|isbn=0-415-21527-7}}</ref>

	The ~~Triguninarayan~~ temple is also accessed by trekking. A popular trekking or excursion route followed is from [[Mussoorie]]. The trek route followed from Mussorie, which involves 17 days of trekking, passes through [[Tehri]], [[Mala, Kerala\|Mala]] (road point), Belak, Budakedar-Ghuttu-Panwali Kanta, Triyuginarayan and Kedarnath in that order.<ref name=trek>{{Cite book\|last=Thadani\|first=Prem.K\|title=		The Triyuninarayan temple is also accessed by trekking. A popular trekking or excursion route followed is from [[Mussoorie]]. The trek route followed from Mussorie, which involves 17 days of trekking, passes through [[Tehri]], [[Mala, Kerala\|Mala]] (road point), Belak, Budakedar-Ghuttu-Panwali Kanta, Triyuginarayan and Kedarnath in that order.<ref name=trek>{{Cite book\|last=Thadani\|first=Prem.K\|title=Chronicles of the Doon Valley, an environmental exposé\|work= Some Trekking/Excursion Routes from Mussorie\|page=132\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yUOezV-JjvgC&dq=Triyuginarayan+Temple&pg=PA132\|publisher= Indus Publishing\|year= 1993\|isbn=9788185182841}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.india9.com/i9show/-Uttaranchal/Triyuginarayan-19415.htm\|title= Triyuginarayan\|accessdate=14 August 2009}}</ref> Apart from this trekking route, the Department of Tourism, [[Government of Uttarakhand]], to encourage tourism has identified and developed six major circuits, which includes the [[Rudraprayag]]–Kedarnath circuit, covering temples at Rudraprayag, [[Tungnath]], [[Okhimath]], [[Madhyamaheshwar]], [[Guptkashi]], Triyuginarayan and Kedarnath, along the [[Mandakini River]] valley. This circuit involves a total trekking of {{convert\|69\|km\|mi}}, in addition to road journey.<ref>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.cothm.ac.cy/Tourism%20Today%20No%205.pdf\|title= Tourism Today The College of Tourism and Hotel Management Number 5 Autumn 2005\|work=Tourism pattern in Uttaranchal: cure for seasonality syndrome\|pages =79–90\|accessdate=14 August 2009}}</ref>
	Chronicles of the Doon Valley, an environmental exposé\|work= Some Trekking/Excursion Routes from Mussorie\|page=132\|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yUOezV-JjvgC~~&pg=PA132~~&dq=Triyuginarayan+Temple&~~as_brr~~=~~3&client=firefox-a#v=onepage&q=Triyuginarayan%20Temple&f=false~~\|publisher= Indus Publishing\|year= 1993\|isbn=9788185182841}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.india9.com/i9show/-Uttaranchal/Triyuginarayan-19415.htm\|title= Triyuginarayan\|accessdate=14 August 2009}}</ref> Apart from this trekking route, the Department of Tourism, [[Government of Uttarakhand]], to encourage tourism has identified and developed six major circuits, which includes the [[Rudraprayag]]–Kedarnath circuit, covering temples at Rudraprayag, [[Tungnath]], [[Okhimath]], [[Madhyamaheshwar]], [[Guptkashi]], Triyuginarayan and Kedarnath, along the [[Mandakini River]] valley. This circuit involves a total trekking of {{convert\|69\|km\|mi}}, in ~~adddtion~~ to road journey.<ref>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.cothm.ac.cy/Tourism%20Today%20No%205.~~pdf\|format=~~pdf\|title= Tourism Today The College of Tourism and Hotel Management Number 5 Autumn 2005\|work=Tourism pattern in Uttaranchal: cure for seasonality syndrome\|pages =79–90\|accessdate=14 August 2009}}</ref>

	==References==		==References==

imported>PQR01: Adding local short description: "Hindu Temple in Uttarakhand, India", overriding Wikidata description "building in India" (Shortdesc helper)

2021-05-29T07:07:36Z

Adding local short description: "Hindu Temple in Uttarakhand, India", overriding Wikidata description "building in India" (Shortdesc helper)

New page

{{Short description|Hindu Temple in Uttarakhand, India}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2020}}
{{EngvarB|date=March 2020}}
{{Infobox Hindu temple
| name = Triyuginarayan Temple
| image = Triyuginarayan Temple.jpg
| alt =
| caption =
| map_type =
| map_caption =
| coordinates =
| country = [[India]]
| state = [[Uttarakhand]]
| district = [[Rudraprayag district|Rudraprayag]]
| location = [[Triyuginarayan]]
| elevation_m =
| deity = [[Vishnu]], [[Shiva]] and [[Parvati]]
| festivals=
| architecture = [[North India]]n Architecture
| temple_quantity =
| monument_quantity=
| inscriptions =
| year_completed = Ancient (unknown)
| creator = Unknown
| website =
}}
'''Triyuginarayan Temple''' ({{lang-sa|त्रियुगी-नारायण}}) is a [[Hindu temple]] located in the Triyuginarayan village in [[Rudraprayag district]], [[Uttarakhand|Uttarakhand,India]]. The ancient temple is dedicated to god [[Vishnu]]. Its fame is credited to the legend of god [[Shiva]]’s marriage to goddess [[Parvati]] witnessed by Vishnu at this venue and is thus a popular [[Hindu pilgrimage sites]].<ref name=vishnu>{{Cite web|url=http://www.indyahills.com/garhwal/temples/tm_uk_grh.htm |title=Places of worship: Vishnu Temple|accessdate=25 July 2009}}</ref><ref name=trig>{{Cite web|url=http://rudraprayag.nic.in/Triyujinarayan.htm|title= Triyuginarayan|accessdate=25 July 2009|publisher=National Informatic Centre}}</ref> A special feature of this temple is a perpetual fire, that burns in front of the temple. The flame is believed to burn from the times of the divine marriage.<ref name = "kedarnath">{{cite web|url=http://www.badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/content-kedar.aspx?id=52|title=Temples Attached to Shri Kedarnath Temple|year=2006|publisher=Shri Badrinath Shri Kedarnth Temple Committee|accessdate=12 August 2009}}</ref> Thus, the temple is also known as '''Akhand Dhuni temple'''.

The temple courtyard is also the source of a water stream, which fills three sacred bathing ponds (kunds) nearby.

==Etymology==
The word "Triyugi Narayan" is formed of three words "tri" means three, "yugi" denotes the period of time – [[Yuga]] and "[[Narayana|Narayan]]" is another name of Vishnu. Pilgrims have been offering wood to the fire in the [[yajna|havana]]-kund (fireplace) since the three Yugas – hence the place is given the name "Triyugi Narayan".<ref name=vishnu/> Yuga in Hindu philosophy is the name of an epoch or era within a cycle of four ages. The four Yugas are [[Satya Yuga]] (1,728,000 human years), [[Treta Yuga]] (1,296,000 years), the [[Dvapara Yuga]] (864,000 years) and finally [[Kali Yuga]] (432,000 years), which is the present Yuga.<ref name=Elphinston>{{Cite book|last=Elphinston|first=Mount Stuart|author2=Edward Byles Cowell| title= History of India |work=Chapter III – Chronology|page=[https://archive.org/details/historyindiahin00cowegoog/page/n186 150]|accessdate=7 August 2009|url=https://archive.org/details/historyindiahin00cowegoog|quote=History of India by Elphinston.|publisher= J. Murray|year= 1866}}</ref>

The name "Akhand Dhuni temple" also originates from the eternal flame legend, "Akhand" means perpetual and "Dhuni" means flame.

==Legend==
[[File:Ellora-caves-1.jpg|thumb|Wall carvings in [[Ellora Caves]]- A scene depicting the wedding of Shiva (four armed figure, right) and Parvati (two armed, left).]]
According to Hindu dharma, goddess Parvati was daughter of [[Himavat]] or Himavan – the personification of the Himalayas. She was the rebirth of [[Dakshayani|Sati]], the first wife of Shiva – who sacrificed her life when her father insulted Shiva. Parvati initially tried to allure Shiva by her beauty, but failed. Finally, she won Shiva by practising rigorous penance at [[Gauri Kund]], which is {{convert|5|km|mi}} away from Triyuginarayan. Pilgrims visiting Triyuginaryan temple also visit the Gauri Kund temple, dedicated to Parvati, which is the base camp for trek to [[Kedarnath Temple]].<ref>[http://www.euttaranchal.com/uttarakhand/gauri-kund Gauri Kund]</ref> Mythology states that Shiva proposed to Parvati at [[Guptakashi]], before they got married in the small Triyuginarayan village at the confluence of [[Mandakini River|Mandakini]] and Sone-Ganga rivers.<ref name =roma>{{Cite book|author= Roma Bradnock|title= Indian Himalaya handbook|work=Kedarnath|pages=113–114|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TyZGp_YVzb8C&pg=PA114|publisher= Footprint Travel Guides|year= 2000|isbn=9781900949798}}</ref>

Triyuginarayan is believed to be the capital of Himavat. It was the venue of the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati, during the [[Satya Yuga]], witnessed in the presence of the holy fire that still burns eternally in front of the temple in a [[Yajna|Havana]]-kund or Agni-kund, a four-cornered fireplace on the ground. Vishnu formalised the wedding and acted as Parvati's brother in the ceremonies, while the creator-god [[Brahma]] acted as the priest of the wedding, that was witnessed by all the sages of the times. The exact location of the wedding is marked by a stone called Brahma Shila, in front of the temple.<ref name=trig/><ref name=badri>{{Cite web|url=http://www.badrikedar.com/temple/Triyuginarayan.html|title= Triyuginarayan Temple|accessdate=25 July 2009|publisher=Kedarnath.com}}</ref><ref name = bansal/> The greatness of this place is also recorded in a [[Purana|sthala-purana]] (a scripture specific to a pilgrimage centre). According to the scripture, pilgrims who visit this temple consider the ashes from the burning fire as holy and carry it with them.<ref name=Mittal>{{Cite book|last=Mittal|first=Sushil|author2=G.R.Thursby |title= The Hindu world|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=fz6KBkgEacAC&dq=The+Hindu+World&printsec=frontcover&source=bl&ots=o9uJEJ8Sk9&sig=PlXMAOJJc2A1EN492ciRMeeIg1o&hl=en&ei=MeGGSt7xD5KK6APx8qX6Aw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1#v=onepage&q=Triyuginarayan&f=false|work=Triyuginarayan temple|page=480|accessdate=14 August 2009
|publisher= Routledge|year=2004|isbn= 9780415215275}}</ref> It is also believed that ashes from this fire are supposed to promote conjugal bliss.<ref name=vishnu/><ref name=trig/> efore the marriage ceremony
,here were no people who witnessed the incident
, the gods are believed to have taken bath in four kunds or small ponds namely, [[Rudra]]-kund, Vishnu-kund and [[Brahma]]-kund. The inflow into the three kunds is from the [[Saraswati]]-kund, which – according to legend – originated from Vishnu's navel. Hence, the water of these kunds is considered to cure infertility. The ashes from Havana-kund are supposed to promote conjugal bliss.<ref name=trig/>

==Structure==
{{Hinduism}}
The Triyuginarayan temple resembles the temple of [[Kedarnath]] in architectural style and hence attracts a lot of devotees. The present shrine is also called as ''Akhand Dhuni temple''. It is believed to have been built by [[Adi Shankara]]charya. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with building many temples in the Uttarakhand region. The shrine houses a silver, 2-foot image of god Vishnu (Narayana), accompanied with consort – goddess of wealth [[Lakshmi]] and the goddess of music and learning – [[Saraswati]].<ref name="bansal">{{cite book|last=Bansal|first=Sunita Pant|title=Hindu Pilgrimage|pages=31|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=F303Zb7EC0kC&pg=PT31&dq=Triyugi+narayan&lr=&as_brr=3&client=firefox-a#v=onepage&q=&f=false | isbn=978-81-223-0997-3 | year=2008 | publisher=Pustak Mahal}}</ref>

In front of the temple, the havana-kund with the eternal flame - the witness of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati - is situated. Devotees add samidha (sacrificial offerings of wood) to the flame and collect the ashes as blessings. A stone called the Brahma Shila – in front of temple – is regarded as the exact spot of the divine marriage.<ref name="bansal"/> A water stream called Saraswati Ganga originates in the courtyard of the temple. It fills all the holy ponds in the vicinity.<ref name = "kedarnath"/> The ponds of Rudra Kund, Vishnu Kund, Brahma Kund and Saraswati Kund are holy spots situated near the temple.Rudra Kund is for bathing, Vishnu for cleansing, Brahma for sipping and Saraswati for offering libations.
There is no place in the history of religion regarding witnesses to the event
[File:Triyuginarayan Temple - OCT 2014 Pic1.JPG|thumb|Triyuginarayan Temple – OCT 2014 Pic1]]
[[File:Triyuginarayan Temple - OCT 2014 Pic2.JPG|thumb|Triyuginarayan Temple – OCT 2014 Pic2]]

==Geography==
The Triguninarayan village is located at an altitude of {{convert|1980|m|ft}} about {{convert|5|km|mi}} away from Sonprayag, the confluence of Mandakini and Songanga rivers.<ref name =roma/> The geographical belt is {{convert|5|km|mi}} away from Sonprayag that extends to {{convert|14|km|mi}} between Triyugninarayan and Toshi villages with an average altitude of {{convert|2200|m|ft}} that has favourable agro-climatic conditions for growing horticultural crops such as apple and stone fruits. During the three winter months, the area is covered by snow.<ref name=sati>{{Cite book|author= Vishwambhar Prasad Sati|title= Horticultural Development in Hills|work= Trigunnarayan –Tishi belt|page=99|accessdate=25 July 2009|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vbfBfIM79OYC&pg=PA99|publisher= Mittal Publications|year=1905|isbn=9788170999430}}</ref>

==Access==
Access to the Triyuginarayan village where the temple is located is about {{convert|12|km|mi}} from Sonprayag on motorable road till the temple. There exist a few trek routes too, like a short trek of {{convert|5|km|mi}} via Sonprayag on the Ghuttur –Kedarnath bridle path that passes through thick forest area is involved to reach the temple precincts. From Kedarnath, which is to the south of this temple the total trekking distance is about {{convert|25|km|mi}}. Ghuttur is around {{convert|12|km|mi}} from Sonprayag, which is connected by road with [[Haridwar]] and other important hill stations of the [[Garhwal Division|Garhwal]] and [[Kumaon Division|Kumaon]] Hills. The nearest airport is [[Dehra Dun]], {{convert|244|km|mi}} from Triyuginarayan, but it is better to start the journey from Delhi. [[Rishikesh]] is the nearest railway station, {{convert|261|km|mi}} from the site.<ref name=badri/><ref>{{cite book|title=The Hindu World|author=Sushil Mittal, G. R.Thursby|year=2004|publisher=Routledge|isbn=0-415-21527-7}}</ref>

The Triguninarayan temple is also accessed by trekking. A popular trekking or excursion route followed is from [[Mussoorie]]. The trek route followed from Mussorie, which involves 17 days of trekking, passes through [[Tehri]], [[Mala, Kerala|Mala]] (road point), Belak, Budakedar-Ghuttu-Panwali Kanta, Triyuginarayan and Kedarnath in that order.<ref name=trek>{{Cite book|last=Thadani|first=Prem.K|title=
Chronicles of the Doon Valley, an environmental exposé|work= Some Trekking/Excursion Routes from Mussorie|page=132|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yUOezV-JjvgC&pg=PA132&dq=Triyuginarayan+Temple&as_brr=3&client=firefox-a#v=onepage&q=Triyuginarayan%20Temple&f=false|publisher= Indus Publishing|year= 1993|isbn=9788185182841}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.india9.com/i9show/-Uttaranchal/Triyuginarayan-19415.htm|title= Triyuginarayan|accessdate=14 August 2009}}</ref> Apart from this trekking route, the Department of Tourism, [[Government of Uttarakhand]], to encourage tourism has identified and developed six major circuits, which includes the [[Rudraprayag]]–Kedarnath circuit, covering temples at Rudraprayag, [[Tungnath]], [[Okhimath]], [[Madhyamaheshwar]], [[Guptkashi]], Triyuginarayan and Kedarnath, along the [[Mandakini River]] valley. This circuit involves a total trekking of {{convert|69|km|mi}}, in adddtion to road journey.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cothm.ac.cy/Tourism%20Today%20No%205.pdf|format=pdf|title= Tourism Today The College of Tourism and Hotel Management Number 5 Autumn 2005|work=Tourism pattern in Uttaranchal: cure for seasonality syndrome|pages =79–90|accessdate=14 August 2009}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist|35em}}

{{Famous Vishnu temples}}
{{Hindu temples in Uttarakhand}}

[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
[[Category:Hindu temples in Uttarakhand]]
[[Category:Vishnu temples]]
[[Category:Rudraprayag district]]