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Nestled in the heart of Dehradun valley, Tapkeshwar Temple stands as a unique spiritual sanctuary where ancient myths meet natural wonders. This cave temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, derives its name from the Hindi word ‘Tapak’, meaning ‘drip’. Here water continuously drips on the Shivling from natural limestone stalactites. The temple, surrounded by lush forests and situated along the Tons River, offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Beyond its religious significance, the temple complex showcases remarkable architecture and geological formations.
Location
Photo: Orijit Chatterjee / Unsplash
Tapkeshwar Temple is located in Garhi Cantonment area of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is approximately 5.5 kilometers from the city center. The temple is present along the Tons River in a natural cave formation at the foothills of the Shivalik range. Its precise address is Tapkeshwar Colony, Garhi Cantt, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248003.
How To Reach
Photo: Anonymous8010 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), located approximately 25 kilometers from the temple. Several airlines operate daily flights connecting Dehradun to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid cab to reach the temple.
By Road: Tapkeshwar Temple is well-connected by road network. From Dehradun city center, it’s a 5.5 kilometer drive via Garhi Cantt Road. Regular local buses run from Dehradun ISBT to Garhi Cantt from where you can take an auto-rickshaw to the temple.
By Rail: Dehradun Railway Station is the nearest railhead, located about 7 kilometers from the temple. Several trains connect Dehradun to major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi. From the railway station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the temple.
Places To Visit Around Tapkeshwar Temple
Here are the best places to visit around the Tapkeshwar Temple in order to elevate the experiences during the trip:
1. Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
Photo: Daniel Romanson / Wikimedia Commons
Located approximately 8 kilometers from Tapkeshwar Temple, Robber’s Cave is a unique natural formation. Here a stream disappears and reappears after flowing under a natural bridge. The 600-meter-long cave offers an exciting experience for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The cool environment and scenic surroundings make it a perfect spot for picnics. Photography enthusiasts can have their best shots at this place . Local vendors sell snacks and beverages near the entrance for the visitors.
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM, daily
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person, ₹50 for camera
2. Sahastradhara
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the ‘Thousand Fold Spring,’ Sahastradhara is famous for its therapeutic sulphur springs and breathtaking views. It is located about 11 kilometers from the temple.This limestone cave formation creates a spectacular water cascade. The water here is believed to have medicinal properties. This is particularly for skin ailments and many tourists visit this place for the same. The ropeway offers panoramic views of the surrounding Balta hills.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM, daily
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person; ropeway charges are ₹150 per person
3. Malsi Deer Park
Photo: Akshita.b1 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated around 10 kilometers from Tapkeshwar Temple, Malsi Deer Park is a mini-zoological park. It is spread across 25 hectares at the foothills of the Shivalik range. The park houses various species of deer, including spotted deer and barking deer. There are several bird species here, ideal for bird watching. It’s an excellent place for families and wildlife enthusiasts, promising a unique experience.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
4. Forest Research Institute
Photo: Christine Palamidessi / Wikimedia Commons
Forest Research Institute is a magnificent colonial-style building, about 7 kilometers from the temple. It is one of the oldest institutions of its kind. The institute houses various museums showcasing forestry, timber, and wildlife. The sprawling campus with its manicured lawns and British architecture. This makes it a popular tourist attraction and filming location.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays and national holidays)
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
Where To Stay
Photo: JanClaus / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The area around Tapkeshwar Temple offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets. Hotel Sandstone, located just 2 kilometers from the temple, provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The Pacific Grand, situated in Garhi Cantt area, offers luxury stays with temple views. For budget travellers, Hotel Shiva Palace provides clean rooms within walking distance of the temple. Tapkeshwar Guest House, managed by the temple trust, offers basic but clean accommodation. Other notable options include Hotel Rajpur Heights, Mountain View Resort and Hotel Shivalik View. Most hotels provide temple visit assistance and local sightseeing arrangements.
Where To Eat
Photo: Satdeep Gill / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The culinary scene around Tapkeshwar Temple caters to various tastes and budgets. The temple’s prasad bhandar serves pure vegetarian meals and traditional sweets at nominal prices. Café Krishna, located near the temple parking, offers local Garhwali cuisine including specialties like Kafuli and Bhatt ki Churkani. For North Indian cuisine, visit Hotel Sandstone’s restaurant which serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Garhi Market houses several small eateries serving local street food, particularly the famous Dehradun-style paranthas and chai. Shiva Restaurant specialises in South Indian cuisine, while Mountain View Resort’s restaurant offers Continental options. Don’t miss the local sweet shops selling Dehradun’s famous Bal Mithai and Singori.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Abhishek Bhati / Unsplash
The ideal time to visit Tapkeshwar Temple is between October and March when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Winter months (December-February) are particularly special as the cold weather enhances the mystical atmosphere of the cave temple. Summer months (April – June) see temperatures rising to 35°C but early morning visits are comfortable. The temple is less crowded on weekdays, making it ideal for peaceful darshan. Morning aarti and evening aarti are considered the best times for temple visits.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: veeroo18 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost for a day trip to Tapkeshwar Temple is approximately ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per person, including local transportation, temple offerings, meals, and visiting nearby attractions. For a comfortable 2 – 3 day stay in Dehradun to explore the temple and surroundings, budget around ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- Visit during early morning to avoid crowds.
- Carry a water bottle and light snacks.
- Book accommodation in Dehradun city for a hassle-free experience.
Tapkeshwar Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, stands as a significant spiritual landmark. Set in a natural cave alongside the Tons River, its unique feature of a naturally formed Shivling. This is perpetually bathed by water droplets, adding to its mystical appeal. Despite modernisation in the surrounding areas, the temple maintains its traditional sanctity, being a religious center and a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage. Book a trip with TripXL to this divine site and be ready for the most amazing experience amidst mountains.
Cover Photo: sarangib / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
