Tapkeshwar Temple, Dehradun

Tapkeshwar Temple is a Shiva shrine inside a natural cave on the bank of the Asan River in Dehradun. The name comes from the word tapak, which means a drop of water. Water drips continuously from the cave roof onto the Shivling, and devotees come to watch it and offer prayers. The temple is only a few kilometres from the city centre.

Tapkeshwar Temple at a glance

Some sources list an earlier opening time, so confirm locally.

Legend

The cave is linked to the Mahabharata era. According to tradition, Guru Dronacharya meditated here and gained the blessings of Lord Shiva, including his military skills. The cave is also called Drona Cave. A popular story says that Ashwatthama, the son of Drona, prayed to Shiva when his mother could not give him milk, and milk began to flow from the cave. Over time the flow changed to drops of water, and the Shivling is now bathed by them.

What to see

• The main Shivling inside the cave, with water dripping on it.
• A second self-manifested Shivling in the complex.
• Sulphur springs nearby, where pilgrims bathe.
• The Asan Riverbank and surrounding gardens.
• Hanuman and other shrines around the main temple.

Festivals

The Tapkeshwar fair on Mahashivratri is the biggest event of the year, with thousands of devotees. Sawan Mondays are also busy. Visit on a weekday in the off-season for a calm darshan.

How to reach

The temple is about 6.5 km from the railway station. Take a cab or an auto. It is a short drive from the Clock Tower. From Haridwar, expect around two hours by road to reach Dehradun. See our Haridwar to Dehradun taxi for pickups and day trips.

Best time to visit

Winter is comfortable, and the cave is cool in summer. During the monsoon the river can be high, so check conditions. Early morning visits are quiet.

Tips

1. Remove footwear before entering and keep it in a bag.
2. Dress modestly.
3. Be careful on wet stairs in the cave.
4. Avoid peak crowd days if you dislike queues.
5. Keep valuables safe during the fair.
6. Combine the visit with Robbers Cave.

Nearby places

Sahastradhara, Robbers Cave and the Dehradun city sights can all be done in a day. Read our Dehradun sightseeing itinerary.

Plan your trip with Gokeys India

Tell us your dates and we will plan a Dehradun day trip, a Mussoorie stay or a full Garhwal route. See the Dehradun destination page or the Rishikesh, Mussoorie and Dhanaulti package.

Related on Gokeys India

• Tour packages: Rishikesh, Mussoorie and Dhanaulti tour · Mussoorie, Dhanaulti and Kanatal 4-day tour
• Read next: Dehradun sightseeing itinerary

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called Tapkeshwar? Because tapak means a drop, and water drips on the Shivling.

Who meditated here? Tradition says Guru Dronacharya did.

What are the timings? About 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

When is the fair held? On Mahashivratri.