Kirateshwar Mahadev Mandir
Situated in the Legship in west Sikkim, the Kirateshwar Mahadev Mandir is an old temple dedicated to the Lord Kirateshwar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva in the form of the hunter. This is a prominent pilgrimage destination for the devotees of Lord Shiva in the Hindu Religion. As per the legend which is related to Mahabharata, Lord Shiva took the disguise of a hunter to test the archery of Arjuna, the third Pandava, and then blessed him. Since then, the Kirateshwar is worshiped as the hunter god. The temple is located on the bank of the river Rangit and a suspension bridge connects the main road to the temple. The grand Shivratri festival in February or March and the Bala Chaturdashi festival in November or December is organized here every year by the local people which are the main attraction of this temple. Though the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, there is also a separate platform to worship Lord Rama and Goddess Durga in this temple.
History
As per the Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva pleased with Arjuna's hard penance and devotion, appeared before him in the place where the temple lies as hunter Kirateshwar or Lord of the Kiratas. Lord Shiva blessed him with the success in the War of Mahabharata. Some people miraculously found a stone manifesting Shiv Linga long back in that holy place. Local devotees say Shiv Linga is the main deity of worship. Many people also believe that a meager visit with true devotion to this temple fulfills one’s wishes, particularly a wish for a child (a son or a daughter).
Architecture
This temple was built in the memory of Lord Shiva in the heart of Legs ship centuries ago, which is thought to be the gateway for West Sikkim. The construction of the temple has the story of its origin to get over time. There are separate platforms for the various deities where devotees can give their offerings. This temple is said to be the oldest temple in the state among the numerous temples in Sikkim. Even without any major festival, the temple compound is always full of loyal devotees who come to pray in front of the unique idol of Lord Shiva. It is said that Mahadeva emerged from that same stone.
