Kalpeshwar temple is nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Located at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level, this sacred Hindu shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. What sets Kalpeshwar apart is its unique manifestation of the divine in the form of Jata, Lord Shiva’s hair. Pilgrims believe that it is the place where Lord Shiva’s hair appeared. Devotees flock to this spiritual haven seeking blessings and inner peace. The temple’s serene ambiance amidst the lush Himalayan landscape adds to its allure, making Kalpeshwar an essential pilgrimage site for those on a spiritual quest. it is the last and fifth temple in the list of Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit
Kalpeshwar is the only Panch Kedar that is accessible throughout the year.
Location | Chamoli |
Famous For | Panch Kedar, Trekking , Shiva Temple |
Altitude | 7217, Ft |
Starting Point of trek | Helang (11 km Away from Here) |
Nearest Railway Station or Airport | Rishikesh, 250kms/ Jolly Grant Airport, 270 kms |
Best time to visit Ukhimath | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
Mythology about Kalpeshwar
In Hindu mythology, Kal peshwar holds a sacred significance intertwined with the divine narrative of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that after the Daksha Yagna, where Lord Shiva’s wife, Sati, sacrificed herself, grief-stricken Shiva began wandering in deep meditation. During this time, his matted hair (Jata) fell at various locations, each becoming a sacred site. it is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva’s Jata, symbolizing eternity and timelessness, manifested. The name “Kalpeshwar” itself reflects this connection, with “Kalpa” signifying eternity. Pilgrims revere this temple as a place where Lord Shiva’s divine presence endures, providing solace and guidance. The mythological tapestry surrounding Kalpeshwar adds a profound spiritual dimension to the temple, drawing devotees seeking a connection with the eternal essence of the divine.
How To Reach Kalpeshwar
By Road
The most common way to reach Kalpeshwar is by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. The route usually involves traveling via Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Helang – Kalpeshwar. The roads are scenic but can be narrow and winding, so it’s advisable to plan your journey during the day.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Kalpeshwar is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is around 195 km away. From Rishikesh, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalpeshwar. The road journey from Rishikesh to Kalpeshwar takes approximately 6-7 hours.
By Air
The nearest airport to Kalpeshwar is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 220 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalpeshwar. The journey by road from Dehradun to Kalpeshwar takes around 7-8 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.