Adinath Temple: A Sacred Retreat
Adinath Temple is a revered Hindu shrine nestled atop Mainak Hill on Maheshkhali Island, off the coast of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. This temple is a popular destination for Hindus all over the world for pilgrimages, dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Adinath.
A Brief History
Hindu mythology links the temple’s founding to the epic Ramayana. It is believed that Ravana, the demon king and main antagonist of the Ramayana, had promised Lord Shiva that he would carry a Shiva Linga (a phallus-shaped representation of Shiva) from Mount Kailash to Lanka. However, on his way, Ravana was unable to find a suitable place to rest the linga, and it eventually became permanently fixed at the site of the Adinath Temple.
Historical Development
The story of the temple’s mythological beginnings is intriguing, but it’s unclear how precisely it developed historically. However, it is believed that the temple was constructed sometime in the early 1600s. There are also accounts of a Muslim landowner named Noor Mohammad Shikdar who was mystified when his cow stopped giving milk. It was discovered that the cow would go to the Shiva Linga at the temple site and begin to produce milk. It is said that the restoration and increased reverence of the temple are the result of this miraculous event.
A Spiritual Retreat
Adinath Temple offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For those looking for a tranquil and enlightening experience, the temple is a must-visit location because of its serene atmosphere, rich history, and spiritual significance.
How to Reach
By Train:
• Cox’s Bazar has a well-connected railway station. You can board a train from Dhaka or Chittagong to reach Cox’s Bazar.
By Bus:
• Numerous bus services operate between Dhaka and Cox’s Bazar. Numerous bus companies with varying degrees of comfort and amenities are available for you to select from.
From Cox’s Bazar:
• To reach Adinath Temple, you’ll need to take a boat or speedboat from Cox’s Bazar port to Maheshkhali Island. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours.
• Once on Maheshkhali, you can hire a rickshaw or rent a motorbike to reach the temple, which is located on Mainak Hill.
What to See and Do
• Adinath Temple: The primary attraction, of course, is the Adinath Temple itself. Take in the beautiful surroundings, pray, and explore the building’s intricate architecture.
• Mainak Hill: The temple is situated atop Mainak Hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. Enjoy a leisurely hike or picnic on the hill.
• Maheshkhali Island: Explore the beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and fishing villages on Maheshkhali Island. Additionally, you can travel to Kutubdia Island, a nearby location renowned for its historical sites and immaculate beaches.
• Cox’s Bazar: If you have time, consider extending your trip to explore Cox’s Bazar, the world’s longest natural sea beach. Take pleasure in water sports, swimming, and tanning.
For Hindus living in Bangladesh, the Adinath Temple is a place of great religious significance. It is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the annual fair held at the foot of Mainak Hill in the month of Phalgun (February-March) according to the Bengali calendar. Thousands of enthusiasts travel from all over the nation to attend this fair. Come and visit this historical site. Happy Travelling!