Some beautiful thoughts

Deoghar, the cultural capital of Jharkhand, is a gem of Incredible India. If you are looking for a short weekend trip, you can visit this city, encircled by green hills and free-flowing rivers. The place is easily accessible via train and roadways.

Deoghar is a pilgrimage for the Lord Shiva devotees. Throughout the holy month of “Sawan” devotees in saffron attire carry water from the sacred Ganges, at Sultanganj to the Baidyanath Dham to worship the Lord; the temple is known to house one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Baidyanath Dham is of great mythological significance as Lord Ravana worshiped Lord Shiva here to gain supreme power.

You can visit the temple on rickshaws or enjoy a rare ‘tanga’ ride, that is, a ride on rickshaws pulled by ponies. Time seems to revert to the old days as the ‘tangas’ move through the narrow lanes of Deoghar.

Before entering the temple you can bath in the pious and cool waters of Shiv Ganga; the temple complex is at the banks of this river. There are adjoining shops where puja offerings can be purchased; the priests of Baidyanath Dham, popularly known as ‘panda’ guide tourists into the temple to offer puja. Be ready for chaos as you enter the temple.

Besides the Shiva temple there are 21 other temples at Baidyanath Dham, temples of goddess Parvati, Kal Bhairab, goddess Kali and others; the deities are sculpted from black stone. There are many photographers here assisting tourists to capture the memorable moments with Baidyanath Dham at the backdrop. If you want to avoid chaos and crowd you can visit the Basukinath Temple, at Dumka, just 40 km from Deoghar. This shrine is also dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Get a glimpse of the simple lifestyle of sages at Tapoban.  Surrounded by dense forests, this is an ideal place for meditation. There are several temples here where puja offerings are of beads.

Trikut Pahar is a paradise for trekkers. This majestic hill is visible from a distance as a green landmark of Deoghar. The Trikut Hills is the natural habitat for monkeys. If trekking is not your cup of tea, opt for the ropeways to reach the peak. It is a thrilling experience as you pass over the rocky hills and mottled greenery.

Naulakha Mandir is often visited by locals and tourists. Constructed with a lump sum 9 lakhs by Queen Charushila, this amazing architecture resembles the Belur Math temple of Kolkata. Dedicated to Radha and Krishna, the temple is decorated with breathtaking sculptures.

Girls cannot resist wearing the multi-colored beautiful bangles sold at the streets of Deoghar. You can also checkout the rare antiques available at the Government store of Santhal handicrafts, located near Baidyanath Dham.

If you are visiting Deoghar at ‘Sawan,’ you can have only vegetarian food here. From hot and soft rasgullas, cool and creamy rabri to refreshing lassi, you can satisfy your sweet tooth here. The aroma of mouthwatering pera floats in the air of Deoghar.

Hence drive to Deoghar this weekend to redefine your way of living.