Tapkeshwar

Nestled on the banks of the Tons river, Tapkeshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the temple was established around 6,000 years ago and belongs to the Mahabharata period. It is situated in Garhi Cantt, just 8 km from Dehradun City. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to this sacred place to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple is built within a natural cave, where two Shiva Lingas can be found.
 

Interestingly, water constantly drips from the cave ceiling, giving rise to the temple's name, "Tapkeshwar". The other shivling inside the sanctum sanctorum is adorned with 5,151 Rudraksha beads, which adds to the spiritual significance of Tapkeshwar Temple.
 

Tapkeshwar Mahadev Mandir
 

In addition to Lord Shiva, the temple also houses idols of other deities. Adjacent to the main shrine, visitors can find the idols of Durga Mata, Lord Ganesha, Bhairav Devta, tall idol of Lord Hanuman, and a cave dedicated to Maa Vaishno Devi. Temple complex is divided into two parts, the sanctum sanctorum of Lord Shiva is on the one side of the river and the idols of other deities are placed on the opposite side. A small bridge is constructed over the river that connects both parts of the temple.
 

It is believed that by offering water, Lord Shiva fulfills the wishes of his devotees, this belief attracts people from afar. On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri and Shravan, an annual fair is organized, which attracts lots of pilgrims to partake in the festivities. There are many Shiva Temples in Dehradun including Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple (Shiv Mandir).
 

History of Tapkeshwar Temple
 

As per the mythologist, Guru Dronacharya resided here with his wife Kripi, which is why the cave is also known as 'Drona Cave'. It is said that, during their stay, Kripi gave birth to their immortal son, 'Aswathama'. Legend says that when Kripi was unable to breastfeed her newborn, Lord Shiva created a divine cow udder atop the cave, which started dripping cows milk. Due to this event, the Lord Shiva is also revered here as "Dudheshwar Mahadev". Over time, the milk gradually transformed into water, which can be easily seen these days.

Tapkeshwar Temple Timing
 

The Portal of Tapkeshwar Temple remains open round the year. Pilgrims can seek the blessing of Lord Shiva daily between 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, so do plan your visit accordingly.
 

Location and Connectivity
 

Tapkeshwar Temple is situated in Dehradun, around 8 km from Dehradun Clock Tower. It is well connected by road and can be accessed easily from every part of the city. However, the road leads to temple from Garhi Cantt is not wide enough and on busy days it cause difficulty for the visitors.
 

Important Tips
 

• All seasons are ideal to visit the shrine, except the monsoon.
• If you want to participate in festivities, visit during Mahashivratri or the Shravan Month.
• On regular days, visitors won't face any parking issue.
• It is advisable to use local transportation during Mahashivratri or other major occasions, as the vehicles are not permitted beyond a certain point.
• Visitors planning to take a holy dip in the Tons river must bring clothes to change.
• Maintain the sanctity of the shrine by avoiding littering within the temple premises.