Kartik Swami Mandir

Kartik Swami Temple located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand is dedicated to Lord Shiva's eldest son Kartikeya. The temple is located amidst the snowy peaks of Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of about 3050 meters above sea level. The history of the temple is about 200 years old and it is the only temple in Uttarakhand dedicated to Lord Kartikeya. According to the legend, once Lord Shiva told both his sons, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya that whoever would circle the universe seven times first would get the honor of worshiping first. Lord Ganesha circled the parents seven times and Lord Shiva gave him the honor of worshiping first. Lord Kartikeya, angry at this decision, offered his ashes to Lord Shiva. This incident is believed to have happened here, and since then this place is considered sacred.