Shakti Bhavani at Chandranath Temple Sitakunda Bangladesh

Chandranath Temple: Shakti Bhavani at Chandranath Temple is one of 51 Shakti Peethas located on top of Chandranath hill, Sitakunda, Bangladesh. As the temple is located on top of the hill, one who can climb the hill not only has the darshan of lord Chandranath and Bhavani but also has a magnificent glimpse of natural beauty.

Significance of Chandranath Temple:

According to the ancient scripts and mythology of Daksha yagna, goddess Sati’s “right arm” fell at this place.

Because it is located at a high altitude of 350 meters high from the ocean level, we find less number of pilgrims visiting the temple. Many pilgrims who come to this spot are young people. The panorama view from this hill during winter is amazing to experience. Local people say it’s one of the ancient temples in its sub-continent and temples chariot is made with wood and is known for its carvings. We also find a Buddhist temple with the footprints of Lord Buddha.

We find the idol of goddess Sati, which locals call it with the name Bhavani, and Shiv Ling with the name Chandrashekar. Lord has got that name because he rules over the moon and he has got the crescent moon on his head.

According to the legend, about 800 years ago Raja Biswambhar Sur happened to reach Chandranath Hill via sea. During that time Dhanya Manikya who is the ruler of Tripura gave many endowments to Chandranath and he also tried to move Shiv Ling in an attempt to take him to his kingdom but all his efforts went in vain.

On the event of Shiva Chaturdashi Puja (in the month of February), lakhs of devotees throng to this temple to get the Lord’s blessings. This event lasts for 10 days, during other days this temple is open from 6:00 AM. to 6:00 PM. The best time to go to this temple is between October and March. Tourists can stay in hotels in Chittagong city. 

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History of Chandranath Temple:

The history of the Chandranath Temple is not fully known, but it is believed to be very old. The Rajmala, a chronicle of the kings of Bengal, states that Raja Biswambhar Sur, a descendant of the famous Adisur of Gaur, tried to reach Chandranath by sea about 800 years ago. This suggests that the temple was already in existence at that time.

The Nigamkalpataru, a Sanskrit text on religious rituals, also mentions the Chandranath Temple. It states that the poet Jayadev lived for some time in Chandranath.

By the time of Dhanya Manikya, ruler of Tripura in the 15th century, Chandranath Temple was a well-established pilgrimage site. Dhanya Manikya attempted to remove the idol of Shiva from the temple to his kingdom, but failed.

The Chandranath Temple has been renovated and expanded several times over the centuries. The current structure of the temple is believed to have been built in the 18th century.

The Chandranath Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world. It is also a popular tourist destination, due to its beautiful location and its historical importance.

Here are some of the key events in the history of the Chandranath Temple:

• 800 years ago: Raja Biswambhar Sur, a descendant of the famous Adisur of Gaur, tried to reach Chandranath by sea. This suggests that the temple was already in existence at that time.
• 13th century: The poet Jayadev lived for some time in Chandranath.
• 15th century: Dhanya Manikya, ruler of Tripura, attempted to remove the idol of Shiva from the temple to his kingdom, but failed.
• 18th century: The current structure of the temple is believed to have been built.

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Places to visit near Chandranath Temple:

Chandranath Hill: The temple itself is situated on Chandranath Hill. The hill is not only a place of worship but also provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. You can enjoy a short trek to the hilltop and witness breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal and the lush green surroundings.

Moinot Ghat and Beach: Moinot Ghat is a popular destination for picnics and is located nearby. The serene Moinot Beach offers a chance to relax by the sea, take a dip, and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Kaptai Lake: A bit farther from Sitakunda but still within reach, Kaptai Lake is the largest man-made lake in Bangladesh. You can take a boat ride on the lake and explore the pristine surroundings.

Bhatiari Lake: This lake is located around 10 kilometers from the Chandranath Temple. It is a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Chittagong Hill Tracts: Sitakunda serves as a gateway to the Chittagong Hill Tracts, which are known for their beautiful landscapes and diverse indigenous cultures. Explore the hill district, visit tribal villages, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Eco Park: Sitakunda Eco Park, located near Moinot Ghat, is a great place for nature enthusiasts. It has walking trails, a lake, and picnic spots.

Mirsharai and Foy’s Lake: Mirsharai is another town nearby with its own attractions, including the popular Foy’s Lake Amusement Park. This is a great place for families with kids.

War Cemetery: The War Cemetery in Chittagong is a serene place to pay respects to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. It’s about an hour’s drive from Sitakunda.

Kumira Rainforest: Kumira Rainforest is a small rainforest reserve not far from Sitakunda, which is home to various flora and fauna. It’s an excellent place for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Chittagong City: If you have more time, consider a day trip to Chittagong city. There are several interesting places to visit, including Patenga Beach, Kaptai Lake, and Foy’s Lake.

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FAQ:

Where is Chandranath Temple located?

Chandranath Temple is situated on the Chandranath Hill in Purulia district of West Bengal, India.

What is the significance of Chandranath Temple?

The temple is dedicated to Lord Chandranath, who is considered a form of Lord Shiva. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and is believed to be an ancient temple with historical and religious importance.

How do I reach Chandranath Temple?

To reach the temple, you can travel to Purulia, which is well-connected by road and rail. From Purulia, you can hire a local vehicle or trek to the temple, which is situated on Chandranath Hill.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the temple?

Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the temple. However, there may be a nominal fee for photography or parking in the vicinity.

What is the best time to visit Chandranath Temple?

The best time to visit Chandranath Temple is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant. Many devotees also visit during festivals like Maha Shivaratri.

Are there any rituals or special festivals celebrated at Chandranath Temple?

Maha Shivaratri is a major festival celebrated at the temple with great enthusiasm. Devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers and perform rituals during this time.

Is there accommodation available near Chandranath Temple?

Yes, there are some budget and mid-range accommodations available in Purulia, where you can stay during your visit to Chandranath Temple. It’s advisable to make prior arrangements, especially during peak seasons and festivals.

Is there any trekking involved to reach the temple?

Yes, to reach Chandranath Temple, you need to trek up Chandranath Hill. The trek is relatively moderate in difficulty and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Is photography allowed at the temple?

Photography is usually allowed at the temple, but it’s advisable to ask for permission and respect the rules and customs of the temple.

Is there any specific dress code for visitors to the temple?

While there may not be a strict dress code, it’s recommended to wear modest and respectful clothing when visiting a Hindu temple. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate attire.

How to reach Chandranath Temple:

Arrive in Chattogram: If you are traveling from outside the city, you will first need to arrive in Chattogram. The nearest major airport is Shah Amanat International Airport. You can also reach Chattogram by train or bus from other major cities in Bangladesh.

Travel to Sitakunda: Chandranath Temple is situated in Sitakunda, which is a sub-district of Chattogram. To get to Sitakunda from Chattogram city, you can take a bus or hire a taxi. It’s approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Chattogram to Sitakunda.

Reaching the Temple: The Chandranath Temple is situated on top of a hill. Once you reach Sitakunda, you will need to climb the hill to reach the temple. There are a few ways to do this:

a. Climb the Stairs: There is a long flight of stairs leading to the temple. You can climb these stairs on foot. The climb can be strenuous, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water.

b. Use a Rickshaw or CNG: You can also hire a rickshaw or a CNG (auto-rickshaw) to take you to the base of the temple. From there, you’ll need to climb a shorter set of stairs to reach the temple complex.

Temple Visit: Once you reach the temple complex, you can explore the Chandranath Temple and its surroundings. The temple offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, and it’s a place of religious and cultural significance.

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