Moteshwar Mahadev Temple

Moteshwar Mahadev Temple, also known as Shree Bheem Shankar Mahadev, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kashipur, Uttarakhand. Located in the Ujjanak area, the temple houses a large Shiva lingam believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The site holds historical significance dating back to ancient times when the region was known as Dakini State, with references in texts like the Mahabharata and works by Kalidas.

Visitors can expect a traditional Hindu temple experience with darshan of the primary deity Lord Shiva in the form of a large lingam. The temple complex includes shrines to other deities including Parvati, Kartikeya, Ganesha, Hanuman, Kali, and Bhairav. The surrounding area features the Shiv Ganga Kund and proximity to historic sites associated with the Pandavas and Guru Dronacharya.

The temple dates back to ancient times when the region was known as Dakini State, mentioned in the Mahabharata and by Adi Shankaracharya. Historical records indicate the place was known as Govishan during the time of Emperor Harsha (606-647 AD) when Chinese traveler Xuanzang visited. The temple is believed to have been built around 302 AD and is associated with legends of Guru Dronacharya teaching the Kauravas and Pandavas at a nearby kila.

The temple is regarded as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and holds significant religious importance for devotees. It hosts major annual fairs including Maha Shivratri Fair, Chaiti Mela, and Shrawan Mela which attract large numbers of pilgrims. The temple represents the cultural heritage of the region with connections to epic narratives from the Mahabharata.