Katas Raj is located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Kallar Kahar on the road between Kallar Kahar and Choa Saidan Shah, in District Chakwal of province Punjab, Pakistan. It is situated about 40 kilometers from the city of Chakwal making it a popular tourist place among people of Chakwal. Basically, Katas Raj is a temple complex consisting seven ancient temples called Satgraha, some temples of middle ages and some recently constructed temples. The oldest temple dates back to 6th century A.D. All these temples are built around a pond acknowledged holy to Hindus.
In the mountains of Pothohar Plateau, these Hindu temples are famous worldwide. A large number of people belonging to Hinduism visit these temples each year to perform their religious practices and rituals. The pond in the center of temples is considered holy among Hindus because they believe it is filled by the tears of Shiva and taking bath in this pond provides forgiveness to sins.
It is said old name of Katas Raj was Kataksha, which in classic Sanskrit means “God’s Tears”. A visit to Kataj Raj Temple provides great information about the history of religions and about Hinduism. It would be better to take some time to visit Kalar Kahar Lake nearby for spending a picnic and boating.
Map:
Map of Katas Raj – click on map image to see detailed map
