Budda Amarnath: The Eternal Flame of Devotion in Poonch

Jammu and Kashmir and to be specific Kashmir has been a land where Shivism flowed and rituals and traditions of Shivate philosophy thrived.

- BAIRAJ CHAWALGAMI

So, there are many Shiv temples and natural shrines and caves found in the length and breadth of Jammu and Kashmir and Shree Budda Amarnath temple in Poonch is one of the famous temples which is frequented by a large number of devotees especially on the auspicious days which are dedicated to Lord Shiva.Buddha Amarnath,also known as Swami Budda Amarnath Ji Mandir, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva ,located in the Pooneh district of Jammu and KashminIt is situated in village Rajpura,near Mandi ,and is known for its scenic and natural beauty and also for natural white stone Shivlinga and annual Raksha Bandhan Mela [Budda Amarnath ji Mela] ‘The, temple is considered older than the Amarnath cave shrine in Kashmir.The temple is nestled in the Pir Panchal, mountain range, about 25 Kms northeast of Pooneh city.It is located on the banks of sacred river Pulsata and pilgrims often bathe in it before entering the temple,The shrine is important for Hindus, with the legend stating that Lord Shiva narrated the secret of immortality =Amar Katha to Goddess Parvati here.It believed that this temple is older than even the Amarnath cave shrine Kashmir and hence the name"Buddha Amarnath."The main attraction is the natural shivling of white stone inside the temple.A major festival, the Buddha Amarnath mela is held during Raksha Bandhan attracting thousands of devotees.The temple is known for communal harmony it fosters, with members of all communities participating in the arrangements for the yatra.The temple has four doors meaning that the temple is open for the people of all faiths and backgrounds.Poonch is the nearest major city,located 20kms from the temple.Many devotees undertake the yatra on foot, following a route that passes through picturesque landscapes. In e