Daksha Mahadev Temple Kankhal Haridwar

Haridwar is one of the most revered and prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. The city is primarily known for Har Ki Pauri, a place where it is believed that the drops of immortality fell. Apart from this, Haridwar is also known for its many ancient and sacred temples. Of these, the Daksha Mahadev Temple, popularly known as Daksheshwar Mahadev, holds great religious significance.
 

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Daksha Mahadev Temple is named after King Daksha Prajapti, the father of the Goddess Sati. Devotees on their pilgrimage to Haridwar often visit here. It is believed that Kankhal, where the current temple stands, is the very same place where Raja Daksha performed a grand yajna and where Goddess Sati self-immolated in the Yajna Kund. Before visiting the shrine, many pilgrims take a sacred bath at Daksha Ghat on the banks of the Holy Ganga.

Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple

Situated in Kankhal, in the southern part of Haridwar, the Daksheshwar Mahadev Mandir is one of the ancient temples in the city. According to the records, the temple was constructed in 1810 by Queen Dhankaur and was later reconstructed in 1962.
 

Located just 7 km from Har Ki Pauri, the temple is easily accessible from all parts of Haridwar. Along with the idol of Lord Shiva, the temple complex houses the Sati Kund, believed to be the spot where Sati leapt into the Yagna sacrificial fire. Being ancient and associated with great significance, the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple in Haridwar attracts several devotees throughout the year.
 

Apart from other days, a special crowd can be seen on the occasion of Shivratri and in the holy month of Shravan, where devotees gather to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

One of the Haridwar Panch Tirth

Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple is located in Kankhal, which is referred to as one of the five Panch Tirth of Haridwar. Devotees on their pilgrimage to Hardiwar generally visit all these holy sites. The other four Panch Tirth are, Har Ki Pauri, Kusha Ghat, Mansa Devi, and Chandi Devi. As soon as you enter the Daksha Mandir, you will be greeted by the two tall lion statues. The temple complex comprises several temples whose intricate designs captivate visitors.
 

Alongside the main temple, there are several small temples dedicated to Vilvkeshwar Mahadev, Shri-Shri Dasha Mahavidhya, Shri Brahmeshwar Mahadev Ji, Lord Hanuman Ji and other deities. Alongside, the complex houses Daksh Kund, which is said to be the same spot where Goddess Sati immolated herself.

Haridwar Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple History

According to the mythology and ancient scriptures, King Daksha, the son of Lord Brahma, had a beautiful daughter named Sati. She had a deep devotion and affection for Lord Shiva, and wanted to marry her. After going through many hardships, Sati finally managed to marry Lord Shiva. However, her father, King Daksha, was against this marriage, as he had a deep resentment towards Lord Shiva.
 

One day, King Daksha organised a grand yajna at his residence, and for this, he invited all, except Lord Shiva. After knowing about the Yajna, Sati was elated and expressed her desire to attend this event. Shiva refused by stating that they had not been invited.
 

In her father's love, Sati asked if she could go alone, and Shiva couldn't refuse her. After seeing Sati at the holy gathering, King Daksha got furious and insulted Lord Shiva in the presence of Sati in front of all members. Humiliated Sati can't take this insult and immolates herself in the sacrificial fire of the yajna.
 

As soon as Lord Shiva learned about this tragic incident, he sent Veerabhadra, a fierce manifestation of himself. In rage, Virabhadra destroyed the yajna and beheaded King Daksha. After this, all the gods and Brahma himself requested Lord Shiva to give life to King Daksha. After accepting their request, Shiva gave life to King Daksha by putting the head of a male goat on him. After getting a new life, King Daksha realised his mistake and repented in front of Lord Shiva.

Daksha Prajapati Temple Timing

Daksha Mahadev Temple in Haridwar is generally open to devotees around 6:00 AM and closes around 7:00 PM. However, the timing may vary depending on the season and conditions.

Accommodation

Haridwar, a prominent religious city, offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. Pilgrims can book hotels, homestays, lodges, and Dharmshala for their comfortable stays. Below are some nearby stays that you can book during your stay:

• Shresth Home Stay
• Hotel Ganga Aamantran
• Hotel Maya Inn
• Hotel Swagat Inn
• Hotel Swagat Suites
• Hotel Park Grand

Food Guide

Apart from its religious significance, Kankhal is also known for a variety of food options. The local street food is often considered sumptuous, which attracts many. However, due to its pilgrimage significance, visitors will not find Non-Veg items here.

Important Tips for Visitors

• Local Transportation facilities are easily available from all major parts of the city.
• Parking facilities are available for both two-wheeler and four-wheeler vehicles outside the temple.
• A shoe rack stand is available within the temple premises.
• Various prasad shops are available near the temple for offerings.
• During festivals such as Shivratri and Shravan, pilgrims must expect a heavy crowd.
• Carry a towel and an extra pair of clothes if you plan to take a sacred bath at the ghat.
• Changing facilities are likely available near the ghat.
• Carry adequate cash for offerings inside the temple.

Major Nearby Attractions

Pilgrims can also visit some other nearby places, such as:

• Maa Vaishno Devi Mandir
• Sitla Maata Ghat
• Ganga Mata Mandir
• Raas Bihar Temple.
• Har Ki Pauri
• Mansa Devi Temple
• Chandi Devi Temple