The famous Tourist Places in Muzaffarnagar includes Hanumatdham, Akshay Vat, Ganeshdham, Nakshatra Vatika, Ganga Bath at Shukratal, Vahelna – Jain temple and Sambhalheda Panchmukhi Shivling.
About Muzaffarnagar
Muzaffarnagar, located in northern Uttar Pradesh, is commonly referred to as “The Sugar Bowl of India” due to its significant sugar industry. The district’s economy relies mainly on agriculture, with a focus on sugarcane, paper, and steel industries. Muzaffarnagar is now a part of the National Capital Region.
Muzaffarnagar is a district in Uttar Pradesh and falls under the Saharanpur division. The city of Muzaffarnagar serves as the district headquarters and is strategically positioned on the Delhi-Haridwar/Dehradun National Highway (NH 58). It also boasts well-connected railway networks, enhancing its accessibility.
Situated in the highly fertile upper Ganga-Yamuna Doab region, Muzaffarnagar benefits from its proximity to New Delhi and Saharanpur. As a result, it has emerged as one of the most developed and prosperous cities in Uttar Pradesh. The city is a part of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and the Amritsar Delhi Kolkata Industrial Corridor (ADKIC). Additionally, Muzaffarnagar serves as a major commercial, industrial, and educational hub for Western Uttar Pradesh.
Tourist Places in Muzaffarnagar
Shukarteerath – Shukratal
Shukratal, located around 28 kilometers from Muzaffarnagar, is a renowned holy destination in North India. It holds significant historical and religious importance as it is the place where Sukadeva Goswami narrated the sacred Srimad-Bhagavatam (Bhagavata Purana) to Maharaja Pariksit, the son of Abhimanyu, approximately 5000 years ago. The town is situated on the banks of the holy Ganga River, which has carved a path through the rocky region. Every year, during the month of Kartika (October-November) on the day of Purnima (Full Moon), numerous pilgrims visit Shukratal to take a bath in the sacred Ganga River.
Here are some important places to visit in Shukratal:
- Akshayavat (The Undying Tree): On a hillock, you can find the majestic Akshayavat, a banyan tree. According to belief, sage Shukdev narrated the Shrimadbhagwat Katha to King Parikshit under this tree. The tree is unique as it does not shed its leaves.
- Shukdev Temple: This grand temple houses beautifully carved idols of Sage Shukdev and King Parikshit, commemorating their significant encounter.
- Lord Hanuman Temple: In close proximity to the Shukdev Temple, you’ll find a magnificent Hanuman Temple. The temple features one of the tallest Hanuman statues, standing at 75 feet, positioned outdoors above the main shrine.
- Ganesh Temple: Adjacent to the Hanuman Temple, there is a Ganesh Temple that boasts a tall outdoor image of Lord Ganesh, standing at a height of 35 feet.
In addition to these attractions, Shukratal offers several other places of worship, including Lord Shankar Temple, Swami Charandasji Temple, Lord Ram Temple, Goddess Shakambhari Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, and Ganga Temple. These temples provide devotees and visitors with spiritual solace and a serene atmosphere.
Exploring these sacred sites, experiencing the religious fervor, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Shukratal can be a memorable experience for anyone seeking a spiritual journey or an appreciation for historical significance.
Akshay Vat – SHUKARTAAL
The Akshay Vat Vatika in Muzaffarnagar is home to a miraculous Banyan Tree that is believed to be 5,100 years old. Its towering height of 150 feet and sprawling roots create an awe-inspiring sight. This ancient tree holds immense significance as it is considered a living representation of Sage Sukhdeva.
According to legend, Sage Sukhdeva sat beneath this magnificent tree and narrated the sacred Shrimad Bhagwad Puranas to King Parikshit, the grandson of Arjuna, for seven consecutive days. The Akshay Vat is thus revered as a symbol of divinity, truth, forgiveness, and sanctity.
This extraordinary tree is often referred to as the “Tree of Undying Character” due to its unique attribute of not shedding its leaves. It is regarded as a living testimony to the eternal nature of spirituality. Devotees from far and wide visit the Akshay Vat to seek blessings and tie red threads around the tree as a symbol of their wishes and desires.
The Akshay Vat Vatika, with its ancient and mystical Banyan Tree, serves as a sacred pilgrimage site where devotees can experience a deep sense of spiritual connection. The tree’s age, majestic presence, and association with the revered sage make it a place of reverence, attracting those in search of divine blessings and fulfillment of their heartfelt aspirations.
Hanumatdham – SHUKARTAAL
Located in the town of Shukratal, within Muzaffarnagar District, Hanumatdham is a renowned religious site that was established in 1987. The key features of Hanumatdham are as follows:
- Hanuman Idol: The centerpiece of Hanumatdham is a towering 72-foot-high idol of Lord Hanuman. This magnificent statue was installed by Shri Sudarshan Singh Chakra and Inder Kumar. It was skillfully crafted by Shri Keshav Ram from Shahdol and was inaugurated by Swami Kalyandev Maharaj.
- Courtyard and Yagyashala: In front of the Hanuman idol, there is an open courtyard that serves as a gathering space for religious rituals and ceremonies. Adjacent to it is the yagyashala, a designated area for conducting sacred fire rituals.
- Katha-Manch: On the other side of the idol, there is a katha-manch, a platform where spiritual discourses and religious narratives take place. It serves as a space for the dissemination of religious teachings and stories.
- Additional Shrines: Located just behind the Hanuman idol, you will find shrines dedicated to Lord Rama and Shri Radha Krishna. These shrines provide devotees with the opportunity to offer their prayers and seek blessings from these deities.
- Hut of Shri Sudarshan Chakra: Also present in the vicinity is a hut belonging to Shri Sudarshan Chakra, adding to the spiritual ambience of Hanumatdham.
Hanumatdham offers devotees a serene and sacred environment to engage in worship, attend spiritual discourses, and immerse themselves in the devotion to Lord Hanuman and other deities. The grandeur of the Hanuman idol and the presence of associated shrines make this religious complex a significant attraction for visitors seeking a deeper connection with Hindu spirituality.
Shukartaal Ganges Holy Bath
Located approximately two-thirds of the way between Delhi and Haridwar, this holy place holds great significance. Situated on the banks of a branch of the sacred Ganges River, this small town is where the renowned sage Shukdeva Goswami narrated the Srimad Bhagavatam to Maharaja Parikshit 5,000 years ago.
Situated around an hour east of Muzaffarnagar city, it is approximately 150 km from Delhi en route to Haridwar.
One of the notable attractions in this town is the Bhagavata Peeth Shukdev Ashrama, also known as Shukratirtha. It encompasses the 5,100-year-old Akshay Vriksha tree, which stands atop a hill where 80,000 sages of various ranks assembled to listen to Shukdev Goswami’s discourse on the Bhagavatam. The Akshay Vriksha is a remarkable tree as it does not shed its leaves. Towering up to 150 feet, the tree’s branches extend in all directions, even emerging from the sides of the hill. One of the branches bears a nub that resembles Lord Ganesh. The ashrama complex houses several shrines and deities, including an image of Shukdev Goswami seated and conversing with King Parikshit.
To the east of the town lies the Ganga River, a tranquil and peaceful stretch compared to the mighty currents of Haridwar and Rishikesh. Many pilgrims come here to take a holy bath. It is important to note that this is a branch of the Ganges flowing near the village, while the main branch of the river is situated 3 to 4 kilometers away. It was in this vicinity that King Parikshit relinquished his mortal body.
This holy town holds a deep connection to the past, serving as a revered destination for pilgrims and devotees seeking spiritual solace and a glimpse into ancient history. The divine presence of Shukdev Goswami’s discourse and the sacred Ganges River adds to the sanctity and allure of this significant site.
Ganeshdham – Shukartaal
Ganeshdham is a revered destination for devotees, primarily known for its impressive 35-foot-high statue of Lord Ganesh. Situated between the flowing River Tripatha on one side and the sacred Vat Vraksha (Banyan Tree) on the other, Ganeshdham offers a serene and spiritual ambiance.
One of the notable features of Ganeshdham is the presence of a substantial idol of Lord Hanuman at the backside, near the Sukhdeva Teela. This adds to the religious significance of the site and provides devotees with an opportunity to pay homage to both Lord Ganesh and Lord Hanuman in one place.
The combination of the magnificent Ganesh statue, the picturesque location surrounded by the river and the Vat Vraksha, and the presence of Lord Hanuman’s idol makes Ganeshdham an important pilgrimage spot for spiritual seekers. It offers a tranquil setting for devotees to connect with these divine deities and seek their blessings.
Nakshatra Vatika – SHUKARTAAL
Nakshatra Vatika is a captivating attraction that draws tourists and pilgrims visiting the mythical city of Shukratal. Its allure and greenery make it a must-visit destination. The Nakshatra Vatika is committed to environmental preservation and has received support from the administration and leaders for its beautification and enhancement. A dedicated five-member team manages the Vatika, ensuring its upkeep.
Swami Keshvanandji Maharaj, the Pithadhishwar of Hanumdham, highlights the significance of trees and Nakshatras (constellations) in Indian culture, as they contribute to the overall happiness and emotional well-being of human life. According to ancient traditions, each Nakshatra is associated with a specific tree. The Nakshatra Vatika was inaugurated on April 8, 2001, by the then Governor Vishnu Kant Shastri, who planted a Jambu tree corresponding to his own birth Nakshatra.
The Nakshatra Vatika is home to a variety of trees, including Kachila, Amla, Gular, Jamuna, Khair, Sheesham, Bamboo, Pipal, Nangkeer, Banyan, Dhaka, Pakad, Rita, Bell, Arjun, Vikankat, Molshree, Chir, Sal, Jalewats, Kehal, Madar, Shami, Kadamb, Kalpvraksha, Mango, Neem, and Mahua.
Adding to the charm of Nakshatra Vatika, there are beautiful stone statues of animals, birds, peacocks, crocodiles, lions, snakes, dinosaurs, fish, giraffes, elephants, and frogs, designed to captivate and entertain children. The presence of two guards standing at the main entrance of the Nakshatra Vatika also adds to the overall charm and delight for devotees and visitors alike.
Vahelna – Jain temple
Vahelna, located just 4 kilometers from Muzaffarnagar City, is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains and showcases the spirit of secularism. The village is home to a mosque, a Shiva temple, and a Jain temple, all sharing a common wall, symbolizing religious harmony and coexistence.
The Vahelna Jain Mandir, also known as Shri 1008 Parshwanath Digamber Jain Atishye Chetra, holds great importance for Jain devotees. It houses an ancient idol of Lord Parshwanath, a revered figure in Jainism. The temple complex features a magnificent 57-foot-high Manasthamb, a pillar of religious significance. Additionally, there is a Naturopathy Hospital & Research Centre within the premises, providing healthcare services.
Recently, a newly constructed 31-foot monolithic statue of Lord Parshwanath has been installed in the Jain Mandir, adding to the religious splendor of the site.
Vahelna, despite being a small industrial village, serves as a testament to the peaceful coexistence of different faiths and the celebration of diversity. Visitors can witness the harmonious blend of religious structures and appreciate the values of secularism and unity that Vahelna represents.
Sambhalheda Panchmukhi Shivling
Sambhalheda Panchmukhi Shivling is one of the religious tourist places in Muzaffarnagar. The ancient temple located in the small village of Sambhalheda, Muzaffarnagar District, Uttar Pradesh, holds significant historical and religious value. Comparable to the renowned Pashupatinath temple in Nepal, this temple boasts a rich heritage.
At the heart of the temple lies a stunning Panchmukhi Shivling, crafted from the exquisite and precious stone known as Kasauti. This unique Shivling has five faces, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s five divine aspects. Additionally, the temple houses statues of Ma Ganga, Ganesh Gauri, Laxmi-Narayan, and Garun devata, further enhancing its spiritual aura.
Despite its location in a small village, this temple has stood the test of time, preserving its ancient architecture and significance. Devotees and visitors are drawn to its beauty and reverence, making it a cherished place of worship.
The temple in Sambhalheda serves as a reminder of the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. Its association with the revered Pashupatinath temple and the presence of divine statues make it an important spiritual destination in Muzaffarnagar District, attracting devotees seeking solace and blessings.
Disclosure : Source of Information about the Tourist Places in Muzaffarnagar is https://muzaffarnagar.nic.in
