Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Chakmound · Lansdowne · Uttarakhand · India

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About Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the village of Chakmound near Lansdowne in Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters amidst dense Deodar and Pine forests, it is a serene pilgrimage site known for its spiritual tranquility and natural beauty. The temple is associated with the legend of the demon Tarkasur and features a traditional stone architecture with a Shiva idol.

Visitors guide

Visitors can expect a peaceful spiritual experience surrounded by thick forests of Deodar, Cedar, and Pine trees. The temple complex is simple and traditional, requiring a short trek or walk down steep steps from the parking area. The atmosphere is tranquil, ideal for meditation and prayer, with opportunities to explore the surrounding nature trails and enjoy the cool mountain climate.

Key highlights

01
Ancient Shiva Temple nestled in dense Deodar and Pine forests
02
Legend of demon Tarkasur and Lord Shiva
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Serene atmosphere at 1,800 meters altitude
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Traditional stone architecture with Shiva idol
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Nearby sacred grove of seven Deodar trees

History of Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

According to legend, the demon Tarkasur meditated here to seek a boon from Lord Shiva. After Tarkasur was killed by Kartikeya, Lord Shiva attached his name to the temple. The presiding deity was originally a Shivling, but now an idol of Shiva performing Tandava is worshipped.

Culture & Context

The temple is a significant Shaivite pilgrimage site in the Garhwal region. Local lore suggests Goddess Parvati transformed into seven Deodar trees to provide shade to Lord Shiva, and the grove is believed to be in the shape of the letter Om.

Route

By train
By air	Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 177 km away

Keep exploring nearby

Discover more nearby attractions and build a fuller day around this stop.

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St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is a historic heritage church located in Kotgarh near Thanedar in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh. Established in 1872 by the Church Missionary Society from London, it is one of the oldest churches in the region and features Gothic architectural elements with a wooden steeple. The church is closely associated with American missionary Samuel Stokes, who introduced apple cultivation to the area and was married here. It remains an active place of worship surrounded by apple orchards and hills.

Kotgarh, Himachal PradeshChurch

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Darwan Singh Museum

The Darwan Singh Museum, also known as the Garhwali Museum, is a historical defense museum located in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand. Named after Naik Darwan Singh Negi, the first Indian soldier to receive the Victoria Cross, it showcases the illustrious history of the Garhwal Rifles regiment. The two-storey building houses a collection of arms, uniforms, medals, photographs, and artifacts from pre-independence and post-independence periods.

Lansdowne, UttarakhandMuseum

By road	Located approximately 36-38 km from Lansdowne via road; accessible by taxi or private vehicle

By public transport	Buses and taxis are available from Lansdowne and Kotdwar

Nearest airport	Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Nearest railway station	Kotdwar Railway Station

Need to know

01Things to know before you go	Non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and leather items are prohibited inside the temple Carry water and snacks as facilities may be limited Dress modestly as it is a place of worship Be cautious of monkeys in the area
02Rules & restrictions	No non-vegetarian food No alcoholic beverages No leather items
03Safety information	Watch out for monkeys that may snatch food or offerings Terrain involves steep steps and uneven paths

Facilities listed

Reported facilities to help you plan your visit.

Dharamshala (accommodation)
Drinking Water
Parking