Secret Tourist Place Near Agra | Offbeat Agra | Bateshwar Dham Temples On The Banks of Yamuna River

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Bateshwar dham temple
All of us are aware that India has a rich culture and history. Every city has it's own story and secrets. Agra is one of them.
During our recent visit to Agra we found a secret Tourist place called the Bateshwar Dham. Apart from Taj Mahal you can visit this lesser known side of offbeat Agra, which is located only 50km from Agra connected through Agra-lucknow expressway and can be reached in less than one hour driving time.
It is an offbeat and secret tourist place near agra but a special place to connect spiritually with Lord Shiva. This dham has 101 temples all done in white color and each dedicated to Lord Shiva having it's own shivlingas Situated on the banks of Yamuna river.
Bateshwar Dham is a mini version of Varanasi. This place is crowded during Shivratri and in the holy month of Sawan large crowds throng to this town which otherwise is scantly populated.
This place also holds the second largest cattle fair in India which takes place in the months of October and November.
As per wikipedia this place got it's name from the Banyan tree - "Bat" under which Lord Shiva took rest for some time which is still standing at that place hence came to be known as Bateshwar Dham. These 101 temples were built by Raja Badan Singh Badauria.
During your visit you can witness the aarti at the ghat. If you are visiting Maha abhishek can be performed by the local temple priest which holds an important place in hindu rituals.
All Hindu temples have metal bells but in Bateshwar Dham there are cluster of metal bells in different sizes in the sanctum which gives a delightful view.
For the convenience of tourist local administration has created large parking spaces right outside the main temple complex, Before entering the sanctum there are many shops where you can buy offerings for Lord Shiva. You can also buy Sovenier for your loved ones.
One of the most enjoyable part of the trip to bateshwar dham will be the sunrise and sunset boat ride in yamuna river with the majestic backdrop of 101 shiva temples, fish feeding during boat ride can make the experience more memorable.
Tourists can now plan their trip to Agra with broader and different prospective for more than one day including Taj Mahal, Agra fort, Sikandera, Itmad-ud-Daula and Bateshwar Dham .