Buddha Amarnath Mandir (Chattani Baba Mandir): Biggest Hindu religion attraction of Poonch

Shafeeq Malik

In the lap of majestic mountains, dense woods, serene landscapes, gushing waters and lush greenery lies a Pracheen Mandirthe Buddha Amarnath Temple also known as Chattani Baba on an analogy of Barfaani Baba (a name given to Amarnath shrine which lies in higher reaches of Tehsil Pehalgam, Distt Anantnag). Budha Amarnath is a site of great spiritual significance for Hindus, however, there is no any established link or resemblance between these two world renowned Hindu/Sanatan pilgrimage centres except that the yatras for both centres are undertaken every year in rainy season.
Buddha Amarnath Yatra is a 10-15 days festival that attracts thousands of devotees from across the country. This period of time witnesses the festive mood of the society as members of all communities of the twin Districts of Rajouri and Poonch work in collaboration to each other to make necessary arrangements for the convenience of the pilgrims. Food stalls are installed at different locations enroute Budha Amarnath Temple by the volunteers so that the Yatries could be provided with the food and other amenities without any fail. Different batches of Yatra are received in Poonch town for stay from where they move to the temple and back before heading to their homes. During this period every day seems to be a festival day in the region and people enjoy a lot.
The yatra concludes with the arrival of the ‘Charri Mubarak’ (holy mace) at the shrine from Dashnami Akhara, Poonch in which a large number of local devotees too take part. This year the yatra commenced on August 07 and is scheduled to conclude on August 20.
According to local legends, the temple dates back to ancient times, and its foundation is attributed to the sage Bhrigu. Believed to be dedicated to Lord Shiva the Buddha Amarnath Temple is located on 33.48 N &74.15 E in Village Rajpura, Tehsil Mandi, District Poonch of Jammu & Kashmir. The Loran river (Pulsata river), considered sacred, flows by the temple, where pilgrims traditionally take a bath for their purification before entering into the Mandir Parisar. Thousands of devotees undertake the yatra annually to pay obeisance at this renowned shrine of Lord Shiva.
Budha Amarnath Templeis round about 20 kmaway from Poonch town and 30 km from Surankote whereas it lies at a distance of 90 km from Rajouri and 240 from Jammu (approximately). It can be reached from two sides; one from the Jammu-Poonch road via Bhimber Gali (BG) and the other sidefrom via Dehra Gali (DKG) on newly constructed road that passes through Bufliaz the first hamlet of Distt Poonch when one travels on Mughal road from Distt Rajouri. This road runs along the right bank of river Suran for about 50 km parallel to the old road that lies across the river.The nearest airport and railway station are Jammu.
The structure of the Buddha Amarnath Temple is a beautiful reflection of traditional Hindu architecture but it is also supplemented by the regional flavour and style. The main shrine houses an ancient Shiva lingam, which is the focal point of worship where the devotees perform rituals and offer prayers to seek blessings and solace.
According to local legends, the temple dates back to ancient times, and its foundation is attributed to the sage Bhrigu. The temple complex is relatively modest but possesses a serene, quiet and peaceful ambiance. A floating stone is also housed in the temple complex. It is believed that the floating stone is part of one of the stones used in construction of Ram situ that connected India with Sri Lanka (from Dhanuskodi in Tamilnadu India to Talaimannar in Distt. Mannar in Northern Sri Lanka).
Budha Amarnath temple remains open throughout the year but the winters become a little harsh hence it is always advisable to visit the temple during summersowing to the favourable weather. The rainy season is very pleasant in the area which turns the entire terrain into green heaven laden with fruit and other produce of the area including grass and herbs. Maize and paddy fields add to the beauty of mountains. The journey to the temple offers an opportunity to the adventure lovers to expedite their hobbies and experience the first hand encounter with the natural beauty of the area, making it a rewarding pilgrimage. It needs a special mention that the District Administration has taken so many steps to woe the visitors. As a visible step the administration has started rafting for the first time in Poonch and now they are also looking forward to introducing paraglidingtoo.
A rafting camp was held in Poonch last month in which many enthusiasts took part and made it a mega success. Rafting got a voluminous response from the public.
The Buddha Amarnath Temple in Poonch is a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and historical landscape. Its serene environment, historical significance, and cultural importance make it a worthy destination for those interested in exploring lesser-known aspects of India’s rich heritage. Whether you are a devout pilgrim, a curious traveller or an adventure enthusiast, the Buddha Amarnath Temple promises a memorable and enriching experience.
It is to be taken on account that in spite of its tremendous importance Budha Amarnath is not easily accessible to all and one has to face so many hindrances and problems to reach here. Under such situation it is necessary to put all our efforts and workout every possibility in making it easily accessible to larger number of people.
In this connection an airstrip on the analogy of Lukla (Nepal) may be constructed at Nurpur/Shahpur heights at 33.48.08 N and 74.13.59 E which in turn can be connected with the Temple by a rope-way under Parvatmala scheme. It will prove boon to the defence services, to the commercial operations and to the adventure lovers equally.
(The writer is JKAS officer)