Gorakhpur is known for much more than its railway junction and the Gorakhnath temple. The city is home to several other temples whose history stretches back centuries, and the beliefs attached to them still draw devotees from far away. Some of these temples hold rare examples of ancient sculpture, while others let visitors experience all four Dhams within a single complex. Here is a look at the major temples of Gorakhpur that remain a top choice for devotees.
The Vishnu temple's ancient idol and symbolic Char Dham darshan
The Vishnu temple in Gorakhpur is counted among the city's most talked about religious sites. It is known for its extremely old idol of Lord Vishnu, believed to belong to the Pala era, meaning the sculpture and craftsmanship of that period are still clearly visible in it. People with an interest in history and art make it a point to visit and see this rare idol. What sets this temple apart is another feature altogether: devotees get a Char Dham like experience within the same complex. The temple premises are arranged in such a way that devotees can take symbolic darshan of Badrinath Dham, the Jagannath temple, the Dwarkadhish temple and the Rameshwaram temple all in one place. This is why most devotees visiting Gorakhpur make sure to include this temple on their list.
Geeta Vatika, a hub of devotion and spiritual practice
Geeta Vatika is counted among Gorakhpur's best known religious spots. The place has long been linked to Sanatan tradition, devotion and spiritual practice. Its peaceful surroundings, well kept temple premises and the religious events held here from time to time give devotees a distinct sense of spiritual calm. That is why devotees from across the country come to Geeta Vatika specifically for darshan and meditation.
Mansarovar temple, 250 years of faith
The Mansarovar temple is counted among Gorakhpur's oldest and most historic temples. For the past 250 years, it has remained a centre of people's faith. Its old structure and religious significance continue to draw people even today. The crowd of devotees swells considerably here during festivals and major religious occasions.
Mukteshwarnath temple on the banks of the Rapti river
The Mukteshwarnath temple, built on the banks of the Rapti river, is considered an extremely ancient temple of Lord Shiva. According to local belief, it is counted among the oldest Shiv temples in Gorakhpur. Huge crowds of devotees gather here during the month of Sawan, Mahashivratri and other religious occasions. Being located on the riverbank, its natural surroundings also hold a special appeal for devotees.
The idol of Khatu Shyam at Kalibari temple in Ghantaghar
The Kalibari temple in Gorakhpur's Ghantaghar area has its own distinct identity. What makes this temple special is the idol of Lord Khatu Shyam installed here. It is counted among the few places in the city where devotees come specifically for the darshan of Baba Khatu Shyam. Bhajan kirtans and various religious programmes are organised here every month as well as on special religious occasions.
Research around the Ganesh idol at Vindhyavasini Park
An idol of Lord Ganesh is present at Gorakhpur's Vindhyavasini Park, and it is said to be linked to the Pala dynasty. The idol is said to reflect the art and stonework of that era, which is why it has been the subject of several research studies. Pragya Chaturvedi, a professor in the History department at Gorakhpur University, has also confirmed that this idol belongs to the Pala period.
