Tucked away in the serene hills of Bilaspur, just 20 km from the town center, lies the Markandeya Ji Temple—a revered shrine dedicated to Rishi Markandeya, the immortal sage blessed by Lord Shiva. With its sacred spring, healing legends, and tranquil surroundings, this temple is a hidden gem for pilgrims and seekers of divine grace.
🌄 Location & Accessibility
- Location: Markanday village, on Ghagus–Brahmpukhar Road, Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Altitude: ~610 meters above sea level
- Nearest Town: Bilaspur (20 km)
- How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible via NH-154; taxis and buses available from Bilaspur
- By Rail: Nearest station – Anandpur Sahib or Kiratpur Sahib
- By Air: Chandigarh International Airport (~135 km)
🛕 Mythological Significance
According to legend, Rishi Mrikandu, childless and devoted, prayed to Lord Shiva for a son. The Lord granted him a choice: a dull son with a long life or a brilliant son with a short one. Mrikandu chose the latter, and thus Markandeya was born—destined to die at 12.
When the time came, young Markandeya began intense penance at this very spot. As Yama, the god of death, approached, Markandeya clung to a Shivling, invoking Shiva’s protection. Lord Shiva appeared, vanquished Yama, and granted Markandeya eternal life. This divine moment is believed to have occurred on Baisakhi, when a holy spring burst forth—still flowing today.
🕉️ Deity & Worship
- The temple enshrines Rishi Markandeya’s idol, believed to radiate healing energy
- A sacred spring flows beside the temple, said to cure infertility and childhood ailments
- Devotees apply kajal to one eye of the idol and vow to complete the other eye upon being blessed with a child—a tradition followed by childless couples across the region
🏛️ Temple Highlights
- A peaceful stone and wood structure nestled in pine forests
- The holy spring is considered part of the Char Dham Yatra by many locals
- A Baisakhi fair is held annually, drawing pilgrims from across Himachal and Punjab
- The temple is surrounded by natural beauty, ideal for meditation and quiet reflection
🎉 Festivals & Celebrations
- Baisakhi Mela (April): Commemorates the day Markandeya was granted immortality
- Mahashivratri: Special pujas and abhisheks to Lord Shiva
- Guru Purnima: Devotees honor the sage with offerings and prayers
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
- Vyas Gufa: Another ancient cave shrine linked to Sage Vyas, just 20 km away
- Shri Naina Devi Ji Temple: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, 25 km from the site
- Gobind Sagar Lake & Bhakra Dam: Scenic and historic landmarks nearby
- Kandrour Bridge: A marvel of engineering across the Satluj River
🙏 Spiritual Experience
The Markandeya Ji Temple is more than a place of worship—it’s a sanctuary of hope, healing, and divine protection. Whether you seek blessings for a child, relief from ailments, or simply a moment of peace, this sacred site offers a timeless connection to the divine.
