Daksh Mahadev Temple, Kankhal

Daksh Mahadev Temple, also called Daksheshwar Mahadev, is in Kankhal, the old pilgrim quarter on the southern edge of Haridwar. It marks the place where, according to the Puranas, King Daksh held the yajna that led to Sati giving up her life. The temple is quiet for most of the year, then fills with devotees during Sawan and Mahashivratri. It is an easy half-day stop from the city.

Daksh Mahadev Temple at a glance

The legend of Daksh and Sati

Daksh was the father of Sati and held a grand yajna to which he did not invite his son-in-law, Lord Shiva. Sati came anyway, felt insulted by her father, and threw herself into the sacrificial fire. Furious, Shiva sent his follower Virbhadra, who beheaded Daksh and destroyed the yajna. The gods and sages pleaded for mercy, and Shiva revived Daksh with the head of a goat. Daksh then asked for forgiveness. Shiva promised to stay in Kankhal during the month of Sawan, which is why the temple is especially busy in that month.

In a separate part of the story, Vishnu is said to have used his Sudarshan Chakra to divide Sati's body, and the places where the parts fell became the Shakti Peeths.

What to see

• The main shrine with the Shivling that, in tradition, appeared where the yajna took place.
• Yajna Kund, the spot linked to the sacrificial fire.
• Daksh Ghat, the bathing ghat on the Ganga beside the temple.
• Wall panels that tell the yajna story in pictures.
• A very old banyan tree in the courtyard, and a small Ganga shrine.
• Dus Mahavidya Temple next to the complex.

How to reach

Kankhal is about 3 km from the railway station and a short ride from Har Ki Pauri by auto or cab. The road is flat and easy for all ages. Buses on the Haridwar to Rishikesh road also pass through Kankhal. If you have a cab for the day, the temple fits naturally between a morning at Har Ki Pauri and an afternoon at Mansa Devi.

Best time to visit

Winter and early spring are comfortable. In Sawan (July to August) the temple sees very large crowds, including Kanwar pilgrims, so expect road diversions and waiting lines. Mahashivratri is another peak day. If you want a calm darshan, visit on a weekday morning outside these periods.

Tips for your visit

1. Check Sawan and Shivratri dates before you travel, because roads around Kankhal are often restricted.
2. Wear light clothing that is modest and easy to remove for the Ganga ghat.
3. Keep slippers in a bag, as shoe racks can be crowded.
4. Ask your driver to wait close to the main road rather than inside the lane.
5. Visit early to enjoy the courtyard with fewer people.

Nearby places

The Anandamayee Ashram, Prem Nagar Ashram, Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple and Maya Devi Temple are all within a short drive. The Parad Shivling at Harihar Ashram is also in Kankhal.

Plan your trip with Gokeys India

We can plan a Kankhal and Haridwar day with a driver who knows the lanes and the festival diversions. Ask for a custom route or choose our Haridwar sightseeing tour. Stay close to the ghats through our Haridwar hotel listings.

Related on Gokeys India

• Tour packages: Haridwar, Rishikesh and Neelkanth 2-day tour · Haridwar sightseeing tour
• Read next: Haridwar travel guide: best places to visit

Frequently asked questions

Where is Daksh Mahadev Temple? It is in Kankhal, about 3 to 4 km from the main Haridwar city area on the way to Rishikesh.

What are the temple timings? Generally, 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though festival days may change this.

Why is the temple important? It is believed to mark the site of King Daksh's yajna, linked to the legend of Sati.

When is it most crowded? During Sawan and Mahashivratri. Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter darshan.

Is there an entry fee? No.