Gods Own Trident

Uttarkashi or the Kashi of the North, a picturesque town, is a brief sojourn enroute the Chardham Yatra. It is believed to be the next most pious destination after the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Benaras. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is located on the banks of the River Bhagirathi which runs close to the Temple premises and a dip in the holy waters is only for a brave heart who can bear the chill 

Within the courtyard of the Temple, and to the front of it, is a Shakti Temple dedicated to the Goddess of strength. The shrine houses a most unique artifact that can be imagined - a Trident 2 storied high standing erect for centuries at this very spot, all exposed to the elements of nature. The Alloy from which it is made has prevented it from any environmental deterioration. You may not find a speck of corrosion or rust on it and it reminds one of the Iron Pillar in the Qutub Minar complex.

I enquired with the Temple Priest regarding its Origin and Make. His belief, based on an epic, was that it had been used by the Gods in their fight against Demons. But some believe, as per an inscription on the Trident, that the temple was constructed by King Ganeshwar, whose son built the Trident. 26 feet high, this trident's base measures 8 feet 9 inches, and its top, 18'/2 inches in circumference, it is believed to be 1500 years old
   

The Bhagirathi in full flow