Not for the Claustrophobic!

After a drive along serpentine roads from either Almora or Binsar, there suddenly emerges a sylvan deodar forest with a sign pointing towards 'The Cave Temple', better known as पाताल भुवनेश्वर।

Do deodar trees (meaning the tree of the Gods - देव दारु) grow in places of spiritual significance? I saw this in the Jageshwar valley also.

Unfortunately, cameras are not permitted inside this naturally formed cave, that has assumed religious significance (or is it exploitation by the priests?).

The discovery of the cave goes back to mythological times before even the Mahabharata, but Adi Shankaracharya is credited with isolating it in modern times.

After a steep descent through an extremely narrow passage (fortunately well lit), slithering on one's back over uneven rocks, polished smooth by years of pious bottoms, there appears a cavernous space. There are no idols, but a helpful guide will point out rock formations, dripping stalactites and their counterparts, the stalagmites and attach mythic and religious overtones to them. Marvel at them either as a cynic or devotee. These have formed over centuries by the abrasive action of water over soft sandstone and the site is worth a visit.

A graphical representation. Looks more like a discharging sinus from the mastoid bone!