Tapkeshwar Temple, Uttarakhand
The Tapkeshwar Temple, also known as the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, is located at a distance of 6.5 kilometers from the city center of Dehradun. A humble cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, this revered temple is situated along the banks of a river which imparts it a unique sanctity. This cave was once the abode of the famous guru Dronacharya and hence is also known as Drona cave.
A Shiva Linga is enshrined in the main complex which is believed to grant the wishes of all those who seek the Lord's blessings. Water trickles from the ceiling continuously on the Shivalinga, making it an interesting spectacle to watch. Cool sulfur water springs here are available for pilgrims to take a bath in before they enter the main temple.
Tapkeshwar Temple is one of the most visited temples in the region. While simple and charming in its appearance, it is one of the popular destinations in Dehradun. This destination is also thronged by young travelers as a picnic spot. To reach the temple, one has to take a short trek through the forest.
History
Tapkeshwar Temple in Dehradun, also known as Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated by the forest side, the main shivalinga at the temple is inside a natural cave. Water drops from the ceiling of the cave trickle down over the shiva linga in a continuous downpour, making for an interesting spectacle.
The Shiva linga is in a cave nearby where the river enters and water droplets drip down on the Shivalinga. The small cave with this splendid scenery is said to have been once resided by Dronacharya- the teacher of Pandavas and Kauravas in the Hindu epic Mahabharata written by Ved Vyas. The cave is thus named Drona Cave after his name.