| The Temples Of North-East India |
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| Temples Of India |
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AMARNATH |
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The
Sangh, as the pilgrims of the party arc called, starts from Srinagar
and trek a distance of 13 km. On the first day, and camp at Pampur
overnight. Avantipur is the second stop that lies at a distance of
13 km. The third one is, Bribihara. From here the party passes Via
Anant Nag, Gautama Nag and arrive at Mattan, a corrupt form of
Martand. It is a Surya Kshetra of great renown. The party is given
ceremonial welcome here. The celebrated Surya shrine lying on lofty
plateau commanding excellent scenic splendour enthralls the pilgrims
and wrings veneration by its architectural marvel and spiritual
aroma. And it is styled as "the architectural lion of
Kashmir", as it is famous for graceful colonnade of 84 columns,
artistic carvings and beautiful arches. It is king Lalitaditya's
contribution to art and architecture. Enjoying its beauty and
peoples' hospitality it again starts and reaches Asihmukam. The
local muslim shrine of great fame here receives pilgrims'
veneration. The Muslims of this place and the nearby Batkut village
arc held in high esteem, and they are given one third of the cash
offerings of the Amarnath temple. They are highly religious and are
very friendly to Hindus. Their Catholicity and humanism are
primarily responsible for peaceful journey to Amarnath; for, it is
by their labour alone roads are laid out and tents are pitched up
for pilgrims comfort. They are patronized by kings from time to
time, when clearance of jungles and laying of roads to Amarnath Cave
are undertaken.
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