Kalpeshwar Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kalpeshwar Temple is the fifth temple of Panch Kedar. Located in Urgam Valley of Garhwal region, the temple's history dates back to the Dwapar era and are associated Pandavas. Kalpeshwar is the only temple that remains open round the year and is directly connected by motorable transport.
 

Panch Kedar is prominent for five anatomical divine forms of Lord Shiva, each worshipped at different temple. At Kalpeshwar, Lord Shiva is venerated in the form of his matted hair (Jata). People from surrounding areas often visit this sacred site to seek the blessing of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the temple offers a picturesque of the surrounding landscapes.
 

The Fifth of Panch Kedar

Being the fifth Kedar, Kalpeshwar closes the Panch Kedar circuit, which begins with Kedarnath, Madmaheshwar, Tungnath, and Rudranath. Unlike other Panch Kedar temples, Kalpeshwar Temple is open for the devotees year round. Located around 243 km from Rishikesh Bus Stand, it is situated in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Nestled in the lush green mountains and dense forest, the temple produces calm and serene natural beauty.
 

A passage through a narrow cave leads to the small stone temple, where Shiva natural rock formation is worshipped in his matted hair form. En-route to the temple, you can witness the confluence of two pious rivers Alaknanda and Kalpganga. Moreover, the dense valley of Urgam features apple orchards and terrace fields, where villagers usually grow potatoes. The head priests of the temple are from Dasnamis and Gosains sects, disciples of Adi Shankaracharya. Basically these priests are from South India and are appointed by Adi Shankaracharya.
 

Kalpeshwar Trek

Unlike the other Panch Kedar temples, Kalpeshwar doesn't require a long trek. To access the temple, visitors need to walk only 300 to 500 meters. A few years back, the temple was not directly connected by road and required a 10 km trek from Helang. The trail is surrounded by natural beauty, scenic vistas, and tranquility. However, even today some trekking enthusiasts often took the traditional trail for an immersive experience.
 

History

According to legend, after winning the Kurukshetra battle, the Pandavas were in great grief and wanted to atone for their sins. For this, they sought refuge from Lord Shiva and went to Kashi. However, Shiva was incensed by the dishonesty and death in Kurukshetra. Unpleased Shiva did not want to meet Pandavas and disguise himself as a bull. When the Pandavas could not find Shiva in Kashi, they continued their search and eventually reached Guptkashi.
 

During the search, Bhim noticed Shiva in the form of a bull grazing near a field. As soon as Bhim tried to hold the bull, Shiva, in the bull form, disappeared into the earth. Amazed, the Pandavas looked around, and suddenly saw Shiva appearing at five different places in his five body parts; the Hump in Kedarnath, Hands in Tungnath, Face in Rudranath, Navel in Madmaheshwar, and matted hair in Kalpeshwar. 
 

Seeing Shiva in his true form, the Pandavas were elated and begged for his forgiveness. After this Pandavas worship Shiva at all five places and built temple in his honor. Pleased with their devotion, Shiva forgave them. The places where the Shiva limbs appeared are now revered as the Panch Kedar or Kedar Khand. It is to be believed that after completing the Panch Kedar circuit, if anyone visits the Badrinath and seeks the blessing of Lord Vishnu, grants salvation.
 

Accommodation

Accommodation are not available near the temple, except a Dharamshala. Visitors can setup a tent near the temple for overnight stays. However, some homestays are available near Urgam.
 

Important Tips for Travellers

• Always check the weather forecast before your journey.
• It is recommended to visit by personal vehicle or by hiring a taxi.
• Apart from a Dharamshala, the site doesn't offer accommodation facilities.
• Bring sufficient woolen, as the temperature remains cold round the year.
• Always carry essential items like Medical Kit, Snacks, Tool Kit, Raincoat, and cash.
• No registration is required to visit the temple.
• There is no entry fee to access the temple.
• Always carry a valid identity proof.
• Avoid visiting during monsoon season.
• Photography and videography inside the sanctum are not allowed.

Nearby Attraction

Here are some other beautiful places to hop around the Kalpeshwar Temple : -

• Gopinath Temple.
• Badrinath.
• Joshimath.
• Auli.
• Valley of Flowers.
• Vridha Badri.
• Yog Dhyan Badri.
• Bhavishya Badri
• Nandi Kund.
• Nanda Devi National Park.
• Vishnuprayag.