The Mystery of the Bones: Legend of Kartik Swami
Kartik Swami is unique. In most temples, you see an idol of the God. Here, you worship a pile of bones. Why?
The Race Around the Universe
The legend goes that Lord Shiva challenged his sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya, to circle the universe. The winner would be worshipped first.
- Kartikeya: Flew off on his peacock to circle the physical universe.
- Ganesha: Simply walked around his parents (Shiva and Parvati), claiming they were his universe. When Kartikeya returned and saw Ganesha had won, he was furious. In anger, he sacrificed his body, giving his flesh to his mother (Parvati) and his bones to his father (Shiva). The temple at Kartik Swami worships these bones.
Searching for hotels in Kartik Swami then you can find here.
The “Women Ban” Myth: Fact vs. Fiction
- The Myth: Many believe women are banned from entering, similar to the Kartikeya temple in Pushkar (where a curse is feared).
- The Reality (2026): Women ARE allowed. Thousands of female trekkers visit Kartik Swami every year. You can trek, enter the temple courtyard, and ring the bells.
- The Restriction: Traditionally, in some North Indian Kartikeya temples, women refrain from entering the Garbha Griha (inner sanctum) directly, but at Kartik Swami, the main worship area is open. You will see many local women from Kanakchauri village visiting for blessings.
Why You Must Ring the Bells
You will see thousands of bells tied along the stairs. It is believed that if you make a wish here and tie a bell, it will come true.
“Ready to experience this legend? Check our How to Reach Kartik Swami guide to plan your journey.”
