DEV PRAYAG

DEV PRAYAG Dev Prayag is famous as the origin point of the river Ganga and the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi holy rivers. However, it is the final confluence among the Panch Prayag in Uttarakhand. Moreover, the heavenly and purest river originates at this very spot, making it a significant site. Dev Prayag is also known as Deoprayag, situated at an elevation of 2,700 ft. above sea level. Located roughly 70 kilometers from Rishikesh, Dev Prayag is the first stop on the famous Char Dham Yatra and is considered a holy site for ritual purification. The Sangam is also considered the ‘Godly Confluence’, as the name “Dev Prayag” is derived from the word “Dev: God” and “Prayag: Confluence”. Even the ancient legends hold great significance for Dev Prayag Sangam. It is believed that King Bhagirath mediated at this very spot to bring the river from heaven to earth for the salvations of his ancestors. This Sangam is often famous for the spiritual union of heaven and earth. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana visited this spot after the Ram-Ravana war. Sri Rama performed severe penance and meditation here to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, who was a Brahmin and a great devotee of Lord Shiva. It is also believed, that the Lord Rama’s father King Dashrath also did penance here. The Raghunath Temple is the symbol of Lord Rama’s presence here. Perched on a hill overlooking the Sangam, this ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Rama is one of the 108 Divya Desams. Believed to date back to the 8th century, it features a 15-foot granite statue of the deity. This ancient temple is built of massive stones and capped by a pyramidal white cupola. The overall shape of the temple is pyramidal. Inside, devotees revere the footprints of Lord Rama and are said to be granted relief from their sins. The temple complex also houses smaller shrines for Hanuman, Shiva, and Adi Shankara. Dashrathshila Temple is another famous temple. It is situated on the banks of the Shanta River. This ancient shrine is where King Dashrath (Lord Rama’s father) is said to have performed penance. Pilgrims can also view the King’s stone throne in the temple. Dandeshwar Mahadev Temple is another important local Shiva temple often visited by pilgrims and tourists exploring the sacred town. Dev Prayag is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand that can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Dev Prayag is between April and October, as climate conditions are pleasant for all travelers. The summer offers ample sunshine, but it is good to be here as the climate condition is favorable, and can enjoy the pleasant weather. However, the winter season is quite cold and freezing as the Dev Prayag is settled at a high altitude. COMPILED By :CHAMAN LAL GADOO