Augarnath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the western road of Meerut. This temple is situated at Sadar Bazaar, Uttar Pradesh in the north of India. The temple is a site where soldiers during the war of 1857, planned their operations and is also known as the Kalipaltan mandir.

Heritage of Meerut

There are many stories related to this place, since the time of war. Many believed that the temple was built as a memorial for the war soldiers. While others say, that the oath before the wars was taken here by the war soldiers. The temple is the oldest Shiva temple and is a heritage site of Meerut that is a display of Indian traditions and culture.

It has two parts, the Shiva temple and the Krishna Mandir. Many Aarti’s, pujas, and festivals take place at the temple. The temple is operational throughout and the timings are from morning 6 am till evening 8 pm.
Many devotees worship here and have strong beliefs and faith over their main deity- Lord Shiva. People visit Augarnath Temple to get the blessings so that they can attain salvation. The best time to visit the Augarnath temple is during March and July.

Elements of art and culture. 

Meerut has a rich heritage and cultural significance right from the era of Mahabharata. There are many communities based here at Meerut. However, to name a few are the Rajputs, Gujjars, Tyagi’s etc. who have retained their culture and traditions. 

The handicrafts of Meerut are very rich in terms of wooden work, ceramic work. Even pottery, musical instruments made out of bamboo, paper mache, ivory art, metal art etc. Nevertheless, Music and dance are other famous art forms of Meerut. The Kathak dance form, the local folk dance along with tabla and sitar. In fact, they are amongst the popular cultural Dance and folk performance forms of Meerut. They have been of great importance across generations. 

The Nauchandi fair in Meerut is a thirty-day-long celebration. It takes place after the first week of Holi. This tradition is going on for the last 350 years. It has thousands of stalls, exhibiting art, craft, culture and handicrafts. In fact, many renowned musicians and dancers participate and compete at the festival and this festival is a must-visit site for tourists. 
Therefore, other art forms and festivals held in Meerut are Meerut Mahotsav, Sardhana Mahotsav and Hare Krishna Mahotsav. The Boodha Baboo Mela are all part and parcel of the cultural elements of Meerut. 

Around the city. 

One can enjoy other sightseeing places in the city during their stay at Meerut. Apart from the famous Augarnath temple, the other attractions around the city are 

1. Shapir – visit Shapeer Sahab ki Dargah for the holy experience and the beautiful artwork of the place.  

2. Hastinapur– To view the ancient town and the stories of epic Mahabharata revolving around this important pilgrimage centre.  

3. Draupadi ki Rasoi – The monument, where Draupadi, wife of Pandavas cooked meals for the entire family.  

4. Shaheed smarak– Built in the memory of the 1857 revolt for the brave Martyrs. 

5. St. John church– It’s the oldest church in Meerut built in the traditional form.  

6. Bhole ki jhaal– The dam that provides electricity to the entire city of Meerut. 

7. Vidur ka tila- It is said to be the former abode of Vidura. The intellectual minister of the Kauravas, from the epic Mahabharata. 

Other attractions such as the Mustafa castle, Gandhi bagh and the Suraj Kund park are attractive tourists spots to visit.

Activities to do around.  

There are many activities to do in Meerut that can be interesting and a travel experience in the Meerut journey. The tourists can view the beautiful and holy pilgrim places for peace and sanctity of mind and soul. 

The heritage sites can be time travel experiences to the stories of the past. In the era of the Epic Mahabharata. The monuments depict and showcase the historic events and cultures of our country. 

The wildlife sanctuary and museum can showcase the culture and natural beauty of the city. 

The art and craft, fairs and festivals are mesmerising and full of artwork that displays the talent of the local artisans and their culture and traditions. 

Nevertheless, folk dance and music, the gardens and parks, the cuisine of the city are major tourists attractions to view the culture and traditions of Meerut closely. 
Shopping the handicrafts and the artwork of the city are the beautiful memories the tourists. The visitors can carry home along with them as a wonderful Meerut tour experience. 

Thus, visit Meerut to view the auspicious Augarnath temple, which is the major city attraction. Take city tours to experience the rich heritage, culture and historic significance of the place. Moreover, the city is a hidden gem of the Indian heritage. It still preserves the stories of the epic Mahabharata and takes one back in time. 

Follow India Chalk on Instagram for more amazing travel content. You can share your travel story with us. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]ndiachalk[dot]com. This blog is curated by India Chalk and written by Manasi Sapre.