Uttarakhand Travel Diaries: Visit Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple in Uttarakhand, where history meets spirituality
In this part of our Uttarakhand travel diaries, experience the legend of Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple and relive its story.
New Delhi: Deep in the lush green environs of Uttarakhand, amidst cedar and pine forests, lies the enigmatic Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple. This ancient shrine whispers tales of a demon’s quest for immortality, intertwined with the divine grace of Lord Shiva. Let’s journey into this mythical legend, where history meets divine energy and resonates in the temple’s environment.
A demon prayer answered
The legend speaks of Tarkasur, a powerful demon who longed for eternal life. Through unwavering devotion he sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for immortality. Pleased by his devotion, Shiva granted Tarkasur’s wish, with one caveat: he would be invincible to all beings except Shiva’s own son.
Empowered by immortality, Tarkasur unleashed his tyranny on the land, terrorizing gods and mortals alike. The cries of the afflicted reached Mount Kailash, where Lord Shiva resided. He knew it was time to fulfill the second part of his blessing, the part that would end Tarkasur’s reign of terror.
Restoring Tarkasur’s balance and remorse
Tarkeshwar Mahadev has the legend of Tarkasur, who gets the boon of immortality and his bow to find salvation through his devotion to Lord Shiva. (Image source: eUttaranchal)
Shiva united with Parvati and from their union Kartikeya, the warrior god, was born. Trained in the art of war, Kartikeya faced Tarkasur in a legendary battle. Despite Tarkasur’s immortality, Kartikeya’s divine prowess and unwavering courage prevailed. He defeated the demon and restored peace to the universe.
Tarkasur sought Shiva’s forgiveness in his last moments. Moved by his remorse, Shiva granted him a final boon: his name would be forever etched in the temple where he had meditated, a testament to his devotion and a reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition.
The legend of the temple
Tarkeshwar Mahadev is 40 km from Lansdowne, Garhwal, Uttarakhand. (Image source: eUttaranchal)
The Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is located at an altitude of 2,092 meters in Pauri Garhwal district. It is believed that the temple is more than a century old and is a living testament to the ancient legend of the story told above.
The temple complex houses five different swayambhu Shiva lingams, each radiating a unique energy. Devotees flock to the temple in search of blessings, attracted by the spiritual atmosphere and mystical aura surrounding it.
Insider tip: For an even more authentic experience, you can visit the temple during Shivaratri, the festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this time, the temple comes alive with vibrant celebrations, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Garhwal region.
How to reach Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Tarkeshwar Mahadev is located near the charming hill station of Lansdowne, about 177 km from Dehradun. Here are several options you can take advantage of to reach this sacred destination:
- On the road: Embrace the scenic beauty of the Himalayas as you navigate winding mountain roads. From Delhi, NH 58 takes you to Kotdwara, where you can change to Lansdowne Road.
- By train: Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Doon Express or Nanda Devi Express from Delhi to Kotdwara and then take a taxi to Lansdowne.
- By plane: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest air link, followed by Pantnagar Airport in Nainital. Taxi services connect you to Lansdowne from both airports.
Nearby attractions and villages
The nearest town in Pauri Garhwal, called Lansdowne. With its colonial-era architecture and enchanting surroundings, it serves as a perfect base for your pilgrimage to Tarkeshwar. Explore Tip N Top for breathtaking views of the Himalayas, or delve into the history of the War Memorial Museum. You can also visit the serene Bhulla Tal, a man-made lake teeming with migratory birds and offering boat rides for a peaceful escape.
As you head towards the temple, quaint villages near the temple such as Ghotala and Gundalkhet offer a glimpse into the simple life of the villagers of Garhwali. Witness their warm hospitality, enjoy authentic home-cooked meals and learn about their unique customs and traditions.
A divine itinerary
To make the most of your Tarkeshwar Mahadev experience, here is a suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Lansdowne and enjoy the mountain air. Explore the city, visit Tip N Top and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.
- Day 2: Early morning, embark on a scenic drive to Gundalkhet and hike for a distance of 1 km to Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple. Offer prayers at the five lingams, enjoy the tranquility and admire the panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the scenic village of Dabrani.
- Day 3: Return to Lansdowne, visit the War Memorial Museum and enjoy a picnic at Bhulla Tal. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner and witness the sunset over the Himalayas.
Insider tip: Pack comfortable shoes for the trek to the temple and warm clothes for unpredictable mountain weather. Bring water and snacks and respect local customs and traditions.
The journey to Tarkeshwar Mahadev is a sacred step in ancient history and devotion. As you navigate the winding roads, breathe the mountain air and offer prayers at the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, let the whispers of legend guide you. In our next installment of Uttarakhand Travel Diaries,