Shri Kathgarh Mahadev Temple

Kathgarh Mahadev Temple, located near Indora in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, sits near the confluence of the Beas and Choch rivers, just about 7 km from Indora and 12–17 km from Pathankot (Punjab border)

“जहाँ शिव और पार्वती एक रूप में विराजते हैं, वहाँ हर श्वास में दिव्यता बसती है — वही है कथगढ़ महादेव।”

― Shri Kathgarh Mahadev Temple

It is one of the rare temples dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, through its unique Ardhanarishwar Shivling.

History of the Temple

Shiva Purana legend: A war between Brahma and Vishnu threatened creation. Lord Shiva appeared as a fiery Jyotirlinga to reconcile them—this legendary pillar evolved into the divided Shivling at Kathgarh

Ramayana link: King Bharat, Lord Rama’s brother, is said to have worshipped Shiva here during his journey to Kashmir, making the site historically sacred .

Alexander the Great: Historians mention Alexander’s army reached nearby Mirthal and halted near Kathgarh. Local lore says Alexander respected the ascetic worshipper and even built boundary walls and octagonal platforms there.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh: During the 19th century, he renovated and enhanced the temple complex, preserving the sacred Shivling and surrounding structures

Architecture of the Temple

The temple blends Hindu and Mughal/Roman architectural elements, with clean octagonal platforms and carved stone structures by the riverside .

The Shivling stands on an octagonal base, measuring approximately 6 ft (Shiva side) and 4′ 7″ (Parvati side), with each side about 1′ 3″ above ground. The two halves are angled and converge just 2″ apart at the top .

Religious Significance

Kathgarh features the only temple in the world where a single Shivling is naturally split into two parts, symbolizing Shiva and Shakti (Parvati) together—the Ardhanarishwar form .

In summer, the two parts move farther apart; in winter, they merge again—an awe-inspiring seasonal phenomenon for devotees .

A grand 4‑day fair during Mahashivratri draws huge crowds. Many devotees gather, chant “Om Namah Shivaya,” and participate in Rudrabhishek rituals and aartis

How to Reach Kathgarh Temple

By Air: Nearest is Pathankot Airport (~25 km away). Local taxis or buses connect to the temple area.

By Rail: Nearest station is Pathankot Railway Station (~25 km); also Mirthal Railway Station, about 4 km away .

By Road: Accessible via Indora-Kathgarh Road. Frequent local transport from Pathankot/Indora is available .

Temple Timings

Morning Temple Opening & Closing Timing
5:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Evening Temple Opening & Closing Timing
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

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