Darshan and the story
Darshan in the cave
Bend down into the rock cave where water drips onto the Shivling all day. Offer water, flowers or bel leaves, and take a moment in the cool, quiet space.
The Drona and Ashwatthama idols
Look for the idols of Guru Dronacharya and his son. Local belief says the boy was fed with milk that dripped from this rock.
Hanuman statue and the rudraksha Shivling
A tall Hanuman statue stands in the courtyard, and one small shrine holds a Shivling made of thousands of rudraksha beads.
Festivals and special days
Mahashivratri fair
The temple is decorated with lights and flowers, a fair runs for several days, and the temple committee serves free meals. Sadhus also come for the festival.
Shravan Mondays
Shravan is Shiva's holy month and Mondays draw long lines of devotees. The temple stays open much longer than usual.
Around the temple
Sit by the Tons river
When the river is low, the rocks by the shallow stream are a calm place to sit after darshan. Many local families come here for a short outing.
Add FRI and Robber's Cave
The Forest Research Institute (about 4-5 km) and Robber's Cave (about 8-10 km) are close, so you can make a full day of it.
Good to know inside the temple
- Leave shoes at the shoe stand and keep socks in your bag; the floor is wet.
- Photography is usually fine in the courtyard; avoid taking photos inside the cave if the priests ask you not to.
- Keep to the queue on busy days and do not climb on the rocks inside the cave.
- Never step into the river when it is high, fast or muddy.
Things to Do at Tapkeshwar: FAQs
What is Tapkeshwar temple famous for?
For its cave Shivling, on which water drips from the rock all the time, and for its link with Guru Dronacharya and Ashwatthama from the Mahabharata.
Is there a fair at Tapkeshwar temple?
Yes. A big fair is held around Mahashivratri every year and runs for several days.
How long does a visit take?
About an hour for darshan and a look around. Allow more time on Mondays, in Shravan and on festival days.
