Have you ever wondered how it would feel to witness a miracle in real life? If yes, then you should definitely visit Tapkeshwar Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Dehradun, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is famous for its shivling, which is constantly bathed by water droplets falling from the ceiling of a natural cave. The sight of this phenomenon is mesmerizing and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Tapkeshwar Temple has many more attractions and features that make it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, culture and nature. In this comprehensive guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Tapkeshwar Temple, including its history, myth, significance, architecture, attractions and things to do. So, let’s get started!
Tapkeshwar Mahadev
The main attraction of Tapkeshwar Temple is the shivling, which is located inside a natural cave. The shivling is believed to be one of the oldest in India, dating back to the Mahabharata era. The shivling is also unique because it is constantly bathed by water droplets falling from the ceiling of the cave. The water droplets are said to be the tears of Goddess Parvati, who was separated from Lord Shiva due to a curse.
The shivling is also known as Tapkeshwar Mahadev, which means “the lord of dripping water”. The devotees believe that worshipping this shivling can grant them their wishes and blessings. The shivling is also adorned with flowers, vermilion and milk by the devotees. The cave where the shivling is situated is dark and narrow, but has a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
The Legend of Drona Cave
The cave where the shivling is situated is also known as Drona Cave, because it is associated with a legend from the Mahabharata. According to the legend, Dronacharya, the guru of the Pandavas and Kauravas, lived in this cave with his wife Kripi and son Ashwathama. Dronacharya was a great devotee of Lord Shiva, and worshipped him daily in this cave.
One day, Ashwathama saw some children playing with milk near the cave. He asked his mother for some milk, but she told him that they were poor and could not afford it. Ashwathama felt sad and hungry, and prayed to Lord Shiva for some milk. Lord Shiva was pleased with his devotion and made water droplets fall on the shivling in the cave. The water droplets turned into milk and flowed into Ashwathama’s mouth.
Dronacharya was amazed by this miracle and realized that Lord Shiva was present in the cave. He named the shivling as Tapkeshwar Mahadev and continued to worship him with more fervor.
Sulphur Springs
Another attraction of Tapkeshwar Temple is the sulphur springs that are located near the temple. These springs are known for their therapeutic value and benefits for skin diseases, arthritis and other ailments. The water of these springs is rich in sulphur and minerals, and has a pleasant smell and taste.
Many devotees take a dip in these springs before entering the temple, as they believe that it purifies them from their sins and diseases. There are separate bathing areas for men and women, as well as changing rooms and lockers for storing belongings. There are also some shops nearby that sell snacks, drinks and souvenirs.
Shivratri Fair
One of the best times to visit Tapkeshwar Temple is during the Shivratri fair, which is held every year in February or March. This fair is one of the biggest and most colorful festivals in Dehradun and attracts lakhs of devotees from all over the country. The fair is celebrated to mark the marriage anniversary of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and lasts for a week.
Things to do at Tapkeshwar
Apart from visiting the temple and its attractions, there are many other things to do at or near Tapkeshwar. Here are some of them:
Trekking: Tapkeshwar Temple is surrounded by lush green hills and forests, which offer a perfect setting for trekking and hiking. There are many trails that lead to different viewpoints and destinations, such as Robber’s Cave, Malsi Deer Park and Sahastradhara. The treks are suitable for beginners as well as experts, and provide a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty and wildlife of Dehradun.
Camping: If you want to spend a night under the stars, you can opt for camping near Tapkeshwar Temple. There are many campsites that provide tents, sleeping bags, food and other facilities for a comfortable stay. Camping is a great way to experience the nature and tranquility of Tapkeshwar, and to bond with your friends and family.
Picnicking: Tapkeshwar Temple has a large open space near the river, where you can enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. You can bring your own food or buy some from the nearby shops. You can also play games, relax or meditate in this area. Picnicking is a fun and relaxing activity that can refresh your mind and body.
Sightseeing: Tapkeshwar Temple is close to many other tourist attractions in Dehradun, such as Robber’s Cave, Malsi Deer Park, Sahastradhara, Forest Research Institute and Buddha Temple. You can visit these places by hiring a taxi or an auto rickshaw from the temple. These places offer a variety of experiences, such as adventure, wildlife, history and spirituality.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Tapkeshwar Temple is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. This is also the peak season for tourism in Dehradun, so you can expect a lot of crowd and activity at the temple.
Another good time to visit Tapkeshwar Temple is during the Shivratri fair, which is held in February or March. This is when you can witness the grandeur and festivity of the temple, and participate in the celebrations. However, you should also be prepared for a lot of rush and noise during this time.
The summer months from April to June are also suitable for visiting Tapkeshwar Temple, but they can be very hot and humid.
Tapkeshwar Temple is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who loves history, culture and nature. It is a place where you can experience the ancient and divine glory of Lord Shiva, as well as the modern and vibrant culture of Uttarakhand. It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature, as well as the adventure and thrill of activities. It is a place where you can find peace and happiness, as well as fun and excitement.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Tapkeshwar Temple today and discover the magic and mystery of this ancient abode of Lord Shiva. You will surely have a memorable and enriching experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.
