About 25kms after Srinagar on Srinagar Pehelgam Highway lies the Awantiswamin Temple. Sadly only ruins remain as it is highly neglected. This is in the Awantipora town of the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir,India. The district is under news for the militancy activities.
This temple was build by the King Awanti Varman of Utpala Dynasty. The King was the devotee of Vishnu and Shiva. Was also known for establishing a stable government with peace, prosperity and expanding of education during his 32 years of rule. Sadly the district does not have these same old and much needed values.
The king built here two temples Awantiswamin temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Awantiswara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva 1 km apart. Alas there is nothing of this magnificent Vaishnab temple now except the ruins.
ASI – Archaeological Suvey in India is not taking care of the remains. They still reminds us of how huge and majestic this structure must have been before the earthquake and the invasions of Sultan Shikandar in 19th century. The coins and the idols found here are kept at Sir Pratap Singh Museum in Srinagar.
How to reach:
At the most 25kms from Srinagar. Ask your cab driver to stop at the temple. Insist if you must, but do not miss the opportunity to witness this architectural wonder. Let it be alive in our memories and heart.
The culture that is so rich in heritage has to pay the price of the miltancy. How much all of this will matter some 500 years later? Is it still worth it?
Two Happy Feet 