Once a year the old Bhavnath Mahadev temple at the base of Girnar fills for the Bhavnath Mela, a fair linked to Maha Shivratri. Triloknath Ashram stands in the same neighbourhood.
In this guide
About Bhavnath Mahadev
The temple stands at the base of Girnar in the village of Bhavnath. Local belief holds that its Shiva linga appeared by itself, and that when Shiva and Parvati crossed the hill, a garment of theirs fell at the spot now called Mrigi Kund — one reason the site is held so sacred by Shiva devotees. Pilgrims usually visit it first, before starting the long climb up Girnar.
Timing of the fair
The mela lasts around five days in the Hindu month of Magha, close to Maha Shivratri, which generally falls between late winter and early spring. Girnar has two major yearly festivals: this one and the Lili Parikrama in Kartik. The exact dates follow the Hindu calendar and shift each year, so confirm them locally before booking travel.
Highlights of the mela
- Naga sadhus — Shaiva ascetics assemble at Bhavnath, and their ceremonial procession is the mela’s best-known moment.
- The Mrigi Kund bath — the festival reaches its peak with a ritual dip in the sacred tank beside the temple.
- Night worship — Maha Shivratri is marked with all-night prayer, bhajans and abhishek of the Shiva linga.
- Folk music and dance — stalls, folk performers and devotional singing fill the grounds.
The Nath connection
Girnar has long been linked with the Navnath and the 84 Siddhas, and its highest peak bears Guru Gorakhnath’s name. Shaiva ascetics from several traditions gather here, and Triloknath Ashram — in the Nath lineage of Guru Gorakhnath — belongs to that living heritage. For more, read Guru Gorakhnath: his life, teachings and the Nath Sampradaya.
Advice for visitors
- Reserve early. Rooms near Bhavnath Taleti are taken weeks or months ahead during the mela.
- Come a day early to settle in before the heaviest crowds and traffic.
- Pack light, guard your valuables in the crowd and carry ID for each adult.
- Dress modestly and expect to take off your footwear in temple areas.
- Be respectful to sadhus — ask before taking photographs and keep clear of the processions.
- Weather: days are pleasant but nights can turn cool, so bring a light shawl.
Staying close by
Triloknath Ashram at Bhavnath Taleti has five room categories — Deluxe, Standard, AC, Non-AC and Family Suite. Festival dates are busy, so ring the office early on +91 96274 27283, share your dates and how many are travelling, and confirm the tariff before paying. See the rooms or send an enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bhavnath Mela?
A fair of about five days at the Bhavnath Mahadev temple at Girnar Taleti, held near Maha Shivratri and famous for its Naga sadhu procession and ritual bath in Mrigi Kund.
Where is Bhavnath Mahadev temple?
At Bhavnath, below Mount Girnar close to Girnar Taleti and Triloknath Ashram.
How early should I book?
As soon as possible — rooms near Bhavnath Taleti go weeks or months ahead during the festival.
What is Mrigi Kund?
The holy tank next to the Bhavnath temple, where the ritual bath is taken at the height of the mela.