Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a limestone cave temple located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. It's situated at an altitude of about 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level. The cave is considered one of the most sacred and mysterious places in the region, primarily due to its association with Hindu mythology.
The cave is believed to be around 90 meters deep and has several chambers, some of which are accessible to tourists. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and within the cave, there are various stalactite and stalagmite formations that resemble different gods and goddesses of Hindu mythology. The cave has narrow passages and requires visitors to bend or crawl at certain points.
Patal Bhuvaneshwar holds immense religious significance for Hindus, and it's believed that the cave is mentioned in ancient scriptures like the Skanda Purana. Legend has it that the cave was discovered by King Rituparna of the Suryavansha dynasty, and it has been a site of pilgrimage ever since.
Visiting Patal Bhuvaneshwar is not just a journey to explore natural wonders but also an opportunity for spiritual introspection for many devotees. The cave's mystique and the religious fervor surrounding it make it a unique destination for travelers interested in both natural beauty and cultural heritage.