Mankameshwar Mandir

The Lucknow neighborhood of Saraswati Ghat is home to the Mankameshwar Mandir, which overlooks the Yamuna River. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and receives offerings from his followers 24/7, 365 days a year. 

According to Hindu belief, God Lakshman sought solace at the spot where the current Mankameshwar Mandir stands after being separated from Goddess Sita during their exile. Many years later, King Navdhanu built this temple in the exact same spot. 

However, in the 1100s, the Mankameshwar Mandir fell victim to Yemeni conquerors, who destroyed it entirely. About 500 years ago, Naga monks completely rebuilt the temple.

Jagath Guru Shankaracharya has authority over the Mankameshwar Temple. Arunima Singh, at the young age of 25, became the first female priest at this temple. On a Tuesday, she became Mahant of the Mankameshwar Temple. A Mahant is a Hindu spiritual leader who oversees an Ashram. 

Things to do in Mankameshwar Mandir

- It is said that the wishes of the most devout worshippers who have come to this temple have always been granted. If you are a devotee of Shiva, traveling to the Mankameshwar Temple will be fulfilling in a way that you will not leave empty-handed. 

- Mankameshwar Mandir, which has been around for what is thought to be at least a thousand years, draws in a lot of worshippers during the Shivratri holiday. Visit the temple on Shivratri to experience the divinity of devotees and Pooja commenced by them. 

- It is not just the blessed month of 'Saavan' that draws a lot of worshipers, but also Mondays. Monday is the day of the God Shiva, to which this temple is dedicated. 

- Those who visit the temple regularly bring sweets and other offerings to pour over the shiva linga (idol of god) as they shower it with milk and flowers. 

- Flowers, chocolates, snacks, and milk can be purchased from the many stands that line the temple's façade. 

- Whenever you make your journey to this famous temple, you can also see other famous historical sites in the area. Bara Imambara, Kaiserbagh Palace, Dilkusha Kothi Palace, Chhota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and the British Residency are just a few renowned landmarks nearby. 

- As a devotee, you can also visit the Hanuman Temple, the Chhachchi Kuan Hanuman Temple, and the Chakra Tirth Temple, all of which are close to this Shiva temple.