Gupt Ganga, an ancient Shiva temple situated on the banks of river Neeru, is one of the most visited places in Bhaderwah . Situated at a distance of just half a Kilometer from city center, many locals offer their daily prayers here especially during early mornings and evenings.
The river ‘Neeru’ flowing next to the temple makes the atmosphere almost surreal and a perfect place for practicing meditation. The sight is as soothing to the soul as it is to the eyes.
It is believed that the Pandavas stayed at this very place for few days during their exile (Agyaat-Vaas) and travelled through a cave nearby to reach Kashmir. A small part of the cave is in fact open for visitors. A huge footprint believed to be that of Bhima’s, the second Pandava brother, can be seen on one of the rocks present here. This temple is constructed using long stone slabs and has a dome structure. A stream of pure water flows through the rocks inside the temple and falls on the Shiva Lingam. This stream of water flows into the temple in a mysterious way and is considered as sacred as Ganga and hence the name ‘Gupt Ganga’.
