Tapkeshwar Temple Guide
Tapkeshwar Temple: A Sacred Cave Dwelling of Lord Shiva Guide
Venture into the heart of a natural cave and discover the sacred Tapkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the outskirts of Dehradun, this unique temple is nestled within a cave where water droplets continuously trickle (or "tapak") onto the Shiva Lingam, hence the name "Tapkeshwar." The cool, damp atmosphere of the cave, combined with the constant sound of dripping water, creates a truly mystical and serene experience. The history of Tapkeshwar Temple is steeped in local legend. It is believed that Guru Dronacharya, the teacher of the Pandavas and Kauravas in the epic Mahabharata, resided in this cave. The name "Tapkeshwar" is derived from the Hindi word "tapak," meaning "to drip." The natural dripping of water onto the Shiva Lingam is considered a divine blessing and a testament to the power of Lord Shiva. The temple has been a place of worship for centuries, attracting devotees from all walks of life. A visit to Tapkeshwar Temple is a unique and spiritual experience. Explore the cave temple, offer prayers to Lord Shiva, and marvel at the natural phenomenon of the dripping water. Take a dip in the cold sulphur-water springs nearby, believed to have medicinal properties. The temple complex also includes a small market where you can purchase religious items and souvenirs. During the festival of Shivratri, the temple comes alive with vibrant celebrations and attracts thousands of devotees. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the temple, you'll find plenty of food stalls outside offering traditional Indian snacks and sweets.
Transportation
Tapkeshwar Temple is easily accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus from Dehradun. Several buses ply the route towards Garhi Cantt, and you can get off near the temple. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Shared auto-rickshaws are also a convenient option.