This Shiva Temple in Pakistan dates back to the times of Mahabharata

Mumbai: The historic Katasraj Temple in Pakistan which is dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the rarest sites of Hindu pilgrimage across the border. The complex has a pond and a number of other temples dedicated to Lord Shri Ram and Lord Hanuman.

It is believed that the Pandava brothers – Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahdeva - took refuge in this temple complex when they were exiled.  

A number of legends are associated with this temple.

Some believe that Lord Shiva spent his marital life with Sati in this region. Post Sati’s death, Lord Shiva, who was fuming with anger cried indignantly. His tears formed the pond which exists till date.

This is also supposedly the place where Yudhishthira impressed the Yaksha by answering all his tricky philosophical questions and saving his younger brothers from the face of death. The Shiva Linga in the temple is believed to have been made and installed by Shri Krishna himself.

The temple complex is located in the Katas Village in the Chakwal district of Punjab province in Pakistan.