Historic Temples Sudhmahadev in Chenani Tehsil of Udhampur

Historic Temples Sudhmahadev in Chenani Tehsil  of Udhampur

The 2800 years old, Historic Temples Sudhmahadev is situated in the Chenani Tehsil of District Udhampur. The Temple Sudhmahadev is about 50Kms away from District  Headquarter. The temple is one the oldest Shiva Temples of   Jammu & Kashmir State.

The historic Sudhmahadev temple is said to be 2800 years old. A popular legend is associated with this shrine is as,  Once, when Goddess Parvati was in deep in prayer, a demon called Sudheet came to pay his respectful obeisance. 

But his demonic looks frightened the Goddess and She made a loud shriek. Her cry revered  acted across the mountains surrounding the valley. Lord Shiva was disturbed by the sound. when He opened His eyes, He saw the demon, at whom he hurled His invincible Trident (Trishul). 

As the trident pierced through Sudheet, he began to chant Lord Shiva's name. Lord Shiva realized the mistake, so He offered to bring Sudheet back to life. But Sudheet Lord Shiva that only by dying at His hands would he be able to obtain moksha (Salvation). Moved by the demon's words, Lord Shiva ordered that, the henceforth, Sudheet's name would be taken before His own at the place where he was killed. 

That is how the place where Goddess Parvati used to worship a shivling came to be known as Sudhmahadev. 

The shivling and the remains of the trishul can still be seen at the temple. 

The temple has a Dhooni (Eternal Flame) to commemorate the spiritual attainments of Baba Roop Nath who is said to have attained Samadhi here about several thousands years ago. It is said that the Dhooni has been kept burning constantly ever since Baba Roop Nath is said to be residing in the temple. 

Thousands of pilgrims visits the temple especially during the three day fair held on the occasion of Jeshta Purnima (i.e. Full Moon of June). The beautiful location of Sudhmahadev temple and Mantalai Ashram adds to the beauty of the place.