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.
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