Kalpeshwar Temple (Panch Kedar)

Significance of Kalpeshwar Mahadev Temple

Kalpeshwar Mahadev Temple of the Panch Kedar circuit is where Lord Shiva’s hair (jata) is worshipped, giving him the name of Jatadhar or Jateshwar. It is believed that worshipping here with full sincerity can free devotees from their past sins, just like Pandavas.

According to Skanda Purana, at the end of the world, Lord Shiva will perform Tandava dance at this very place, bringing destruction and new beginnings. This Kalpeshwar Temple Uttarakhand is also known for wish fulfilment (Kalpa). Many believe that those who die here attain moksha(salvation) and go straight to heaven.

This place reminds us that no sin is too big to be forgiven if faith and devotion are pure. However, visiting the Panch Kedar Kalpeshwar temple alone does not complete the holy Panch Kedar journey. It is believed that devotees must visit the Badrinath temple to seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings.

Mythology Behind the Kalpeshwar Temple History

Hidden in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Kalpeshwar Temple history is still a mystery! Some believe it was built by the Pandava brothers in Dwapar Yuga after the Mahabharata. Let us look at the associated mythological stories of this holy Panch Kedar pilgrimage:

1. Lord Shiva’s Protection of Devas

Per the Kedar Khand of Skanda Mahapurana, the Devas (Hindu Gods) troubled by demons came to Kalpasthal (Panch Kedar Kalpeshwar Temple) and performed Narayanastuti. Pleased with their devotion, Lord Shiva blessed Hindu Gods with Abhaya (protection), ensuring no harm from the mighty demons.

2. Kalpnath Temple Kund and 14 Ratnas

According to ancient texts, Lord Shiva took water from a sacred kunda (pond) at Kalpeshwar for the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). This water later helped in the formation of 14 ratnas (treasures), including Kalpavriksha (where Sage Durvasa performed penance).

3. Sage Durvasa’s Penance and Creation of Urvashi Apsara

For many years, Sage Durvasa meditated under the Kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling tree) at the Kalpeshwar temple Uttarakhand. Since then, the place has been known as ‘Kalpeshwar’ or ‘Kalpeshwarnath’. Moreover, ancient texts claim the Sage Durvasa created Urvashi Apsara, heaven’s most beautiful apsara, at this very place.

The Architecture of Kalpeshwar Panch Kedar

The last of Panch Kedar Kalpeshwar Temple is constructed with local granite stones, a traditional Garhwali (Katyuri) architectural style. However, the structure and architecture of this temple stand apart from the other Panch Kedar temples in many ways.

Highlights of the Kalpeshwar Panch Kedar

Let us explore the architecture of Anadi Kalpeshwar Mahadevmandir by looking at its main architectural features:

• Entrance: The temple's entrance is not big like other temples and is not visible from a distance, as it is inside a cave. A brass bell is hung at the entrance, a common feature in Himalayan temples. Idols of Nandi and the Pandava brothers can also be seen near the entrance.
• Shikhara (Main Tower/Gopuram): Unlike Kedarnath or Tungnath temples, the Kalpeshwar mandir does not have a temple tower or shikhara. In fact, there is a cave-like opening structure that leads to the Garbhagriha of the temple.
• Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): The most sacred part of the temple, garbhagriha, is inside a small cave. Instead of a Shiva lingam, there is a big rock that is worshipped as Lord Shiva’s Jata (matted hair).

Read About Other Panch Kedar Temples