Kalpeshwar Temple

• Location: Situated in the Urgam valley of the Garhwal region, Uttarakhand, India.
• Elevation: 2,200 meters (7,217.8 feet) above sea level.
• Significance: Fifth temple among the Panch Kedar, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Accessibility: Accessible year-round, with a road journey from Rishikesh.
• Legend: Linked to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, marking the spot where Bhima encountered Lord Shiva in the form of a bull.
• Worship: Temple priests from the Dasnami and Gossain sects, disciples of Adi Shankara, oversee rituals.
• Surroundings: Enveloped by the natural beauty of the Urgam valley, amidst lush greenery and flowing rivers.
• Temple Timings: 6 AM to 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Time Required: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Perched at an altitude of 2,200 meters within the pristine Urgam valley of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, the Kalpeshwar Temple stands as a timeless emblem of devotion to Lord Shiva. Enveloped in myth and legend, this sacred site is revered as the fifth sanctuary among the Panch Kedar, symbolizing the diverse divine manifestations of the revered deity. Unlike its counterparts, Kalpeshwar remains accessible throughout the year, welcoming pilgrims and seekers of spiritual solace to its humble abode nestled amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas.

Legend intertwines with the temple’s existence, tracing back to the saga of the Pandavas from the ancient Indian epic, Mahabharata. It is believed that seeking absolution for their transgressions, the Pandavas embarked on a pilgrimage, eventually leading them to the hidden recesses of the Garhwal Himalayas. Here, amidst the rugged terrain, Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, encountered Lord Shiva in the form of a bull, marking the sacred spot where Kalpeshwar Temple now stands. This divine encounter led to the establishment of the temple and enshrined within it, the sacred locks (jata) of Lord Shiva, offering devotees a tangible connection to the divine.

Visitors to Kalpeshwar Temple are greeted not only by its spiritual significance but also by the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds it. The Urgam valley, with its lush greenery, cascading rivers, and serene ambiance, serves as a fitting backdrop for introspection and reverence. Accessible via a challenging yet rewarding journey from Rishikesh, the temple beckons pilgrims and adventurers alike to embark on a transformative pilgrimage, where the echoes of ancient legends mingle with the whispers of the wind amidst the towering Himalayan peaks.