Bankhandi Temple in Khatima, Uttarakhand

About Attraction

About Bankhandi Temple

Located on the outskirts of Khatima in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, Bankhandi Temple (Bankhandi Mahadev Mandir) is a revered ancient Shiva shrine tucked within the dense Sal forest belt of the Terai region. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his ascetic forest dweller form (Bankhandi), this sacred complex attracts thousands of devotees from across Kumaon and neighboring Uttar Pradesh.

Bankhandi Temple Khatima Kumaon

According to local folklore, the natural stone Shiva Lingam was discovered centuries ago by forest woodcutters under an ancient banyan tree. The peaceful temple courtyard features a sacred pond where pilgrims take ceremonial dips before offering holy Ganges water, milk, and Bel leaves at the sanctum.

The temple complex comes alive during the auspicious Hindu month of Shravan and on Maha Shivratri, when grand fairs and night long prayer vigils are organized. The tranquil forest surroundings provide a meditative retreat for travelers exploring the Kumaon foothills.

How to Reach Bankhandi Temple

By Road: Situated roughly 5 km from Khatima bus terminus along the Tanakpur highway. Easily accessible via local auto rickshaws, e rickshaws, and private cars.
By Train: Khatima Railway Station (KHMA) is 4.5 km away, connecting to Bareilly, Pilibhit, and Lucknow via broad gauge express trains.
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is 75 km west, offering regular flights to Dehradun and New Delhi.

Best Time to Visit Bankhandi Temple

October to March: Pleasant winter temperatures (10°C to 24°C) make temple visits and forest walks comfortable.
Maha Shivratri (February/March): The biggest annual temple festival featuring special morning abhishekam and vibrant devotional melas.
Shravan Month (July/August): Devotees and Kanwariyas gather in large numbers to offer sacred river water at the sanctum.

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Bankhandi Temple & Khatima Photo Gallery

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Bankhandi Temple

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Khatima Uttarakhand

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Khatima Chauraha

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UTC Bus on NH 9 near Chakarpur, Khatima

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Vankhandi Mahadev near Chakarpur, Khatima

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Helpful Information

Frequently Asked Questions about Bankhandi Temple

Essential visitor information regarding timings, entry tickets, location, nearby attractions, and travel guide in Khatima.

01 Where is Bankhandi Temple located?

The temple is located in the forest periphery of Khatima town in Udham Singh Nagar district, approximately 5 kilometers from the main bus station.

02 Which deity is worshipped at Bankhandi Temple?

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of Bankhandi Mahadev (the lord of the forest).

03 What are the visiting hours for Bankhandi Temple?

The temple is open every day from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Morning and evening aarti rituals are open to all devotees.

04 Is there any entry fee to visit the temple?

No, entry to Bankhandi Temple is free for all pilgrims and visitors.

05 What are the major festivals celebrated at Bankhandi Temple?

Maha Shivratri and the holy month of Shravan are celebrated with great devotion, drawing thousands of pilgrims from across Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

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Nearby Attractions

Surai Forest Range

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Uttarakhand

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