At the end of a  2km trek through the apple orchards, terraced fields and thick forests of Ugram valley stands the temple of Kalpeshwar, where the Lord's tresses are worshipped. The temple, like the other Panch Kedars is also believed to have built by Pandavas. The shrine is a favourite destination for meditating sages and wandering ascetics. Legends describe that sage Arghya  created Urvashi by performing austerities here. Rishi Durvasa is also believed to have meditated here, under the Kalpavriksha situated near the temple

Location Uttarakhand , Chamoli, Dehradun

Legend

The Pandavas after the war of Kurukshetra, went in search of Shiva to ask pardon for the sins of fratricide. Shiva, avoided them, took disguise of a bull and went into hiding in Guptakashi. The Pandavas chased him there. Shiva's body in the form of bull materialised at five different spots where the Pandavas built the temple in his honour. Lord's tresses(jata) was materialised at Kalpeshwar and hence he is also known as Jateshwar or Jatadhar

This Temple is part of famous Panch Kedar Yatra.

Architecture

A small trail with crude steps leads to the archway of the temple, colourful with hanging bells. The temple is built with granite stones. The tower built of stone slabs, has a wooden deck with arch openings. A traditional porch was built later for space for temple facilities. The small stone Linga idol is situated inside sanctum. The cave passage has rock carvings on symbolising Lord's tresses.

Picture Courtesy: "Kalpehswar" by rolling on - http://www.flickr.com/photos/foot_loose/1269337432/. Licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kalpehswar.jpg#/media/File:Kalpehswar.jpg

Culture

The people of Ugram village and around the temple of Kalpeshwar are cordial and help the pilgrims and trekkers by providing food/home stays. This being a popular location for meditation has a lot of sages and ascetics.

Darsan Info

Temple timings 4.00 AM to 9.00 PM

Kalpeshwar temple is the only Panch Kedar that remains open throughout the year.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire.

Famous Festival

March - Maha Shivratri (Feb/March)

Temple Rituals

The priests who are Dasnamis and Gossains, disciples of Adi Shankara, perform rituals like pooja and aarti at the Kalpeshwar Temple.

Special Rituals

The temple houses the famous Kalpavriksh, which is believed to fulfil the wishes of people. This temple is a popular destination for meditating sages and ascetics.

Additional Info

 

Small eateries available on the trek path to the Kalpeshwar Temple.