Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Rudraprayag in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Perched on the banks of the Alaknanda River and nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills, this temple offers a serene spiritual experience along with natural beauty.

“ॐ नमः शिवाय”
“ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्।
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात्॥”

― Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

This temple offers a serene spiritual experience along with natural beauty.

Mythological Significance & History

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva meditated in the caves of Koteshwar to escape the demon Bhasmasura, who had obtained a boon to turn anyone into ashes by merely touching their head. When Bhasmasura tried to test this boon on Lord Shiva, he fled and found refuge in this cave. Eventually, Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini tricked Bhasmasura into touching his own head, leading to his destruction.
The name “Koteshwar” is derived from “Koti Ishwar,” meaning “crore forms of God.” The cave and the temple thus became sanctified as a place where divine energy resides in abundance.

Significance of the Temple

It is one of the few temples where Lord Shiva is worshipped in a natural cave, making it unique among the Shiva temples in India.
The temple is a spiritual stop for pilgrims heading to Kedarnath, and many consider offering prayers here as highly auspicious.
Devotees believe that worshipping at Koteshwar Mahadev brings peace, success, and liberation from sins.
The temple becomes especially significant during Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of devotees gather here for darshan and rituals.

Architecture of the Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is built around a natural cave that houses the Shiva Linga formed naturally from a stalagmite. The cave temple has a mystical aura with water droplets constantly dripping over the linga, which is considered sacred.

The architecture is minimal and rustic, preserving its natural form. The surroundings of the temple are adorned with small shrines, and one can also find rock carvings of various deities inside the cave.

How to Reach to Temple

Location: Peer Kho Road, near Tawi River, Jammu City, Jammu & Kashmir – 180001By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 180 km away). Taxis and buses are available from there.

By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh (approx. 140 km). From there, one can take a bus or taxi.

By Road: The temple is well-connected by road and lies close to Rudraprayag (approx. 3 km). It can be easily reached by local taxis or even a short trek from Rudraprayag town.

Temple Timings

Morning Temple Opening & Closing Timing
6:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Evening Temple Opening & Closing Timing
4:00 PM to 6:30 PM

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