Tapkeshwar Temple in Dehradun is about 6.5 kilometres from the city centre. It is a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located between two hills, while the main sanctum is nestled within a naturally occurring cave. The architecture exhibits a simple Hindu style. Water trickles naturally from the ceiling and falls on the Shivalinga, making it an exciting sight. It is believed that the cave was once the abode of guru Dronacharya and hence is known as Drona cave.
Devotees have a staunch belief in the Shiva Linga that it grants the wishes of all those who seek the Lord’s blessings. Mythological stories state that Ashwathama, the son of Dronacharya, was born inside the cave. However, his mother was unable to feed him due to lack of milk. Ashwathama was wise, and prayed to Lord Shiva to grant him some milk to satiate his hunger. Lord Shiva granted the wish and sufficed the new born’s hunger. Since then, a Shiva Linga was established here which is believed to grant the wishes of all those who visit this temple to seek the Lord’sLord’s blessings.
Naturally dripping sulphur water in the cave that falls over the Shiv Linga. This naturally dripping water forms a fantastic sight. Interestingly, the water droplets vanish and can be seen a few yards away from the temple. This makes Tapkeshwar Temple the land of many miracles.
The best time to visit the Tapkeshwar Temple is during Maha Shivratri – an earthly celebration of Lord Shiva’sShiva’s marriage to Goddess Parvati. A grand celebration marks the occasion. Pilgrims participate in large numbers to attend the divine union.