Gopinath Temple in Chamoli, Uttarakhand
Gopinath Temples is located in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva the temple is rooted in the unique tale of Kamdeva facing Lord Shiva’s wrath.
Kalpeshwar Temple in Urgam Valley, Uttarakhand
Kalpeshwar Temple in Urgam Valley of Uttarakhand is the fifth kedar of Panch Kedar Circuit. Here the jattas of Lord Shiva are worshipped all throughout the year.
Story of the Kalpeshwar Temple, Uttarakhand
Tucked away in the peaceful Urgam Valley of Uttarakhand, Kalpeshwar Temple is the fifth and final temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Unlike the other Kedar temples, Kalpeshwar is unique because it remains open to devotees throughout the year. Surrounded by mesmerizing natural beauty, this sacred temple is where Lord Shiva's jata (hair) is worshipped.
The legend of Kalpeshwar is deeply rooted in the story of the Panch Kedar temples. After the epic Mahabharata war, the Pandavas, burdened by guilt for killing their own kin, sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to absolve their sins. However, Lord Shiva, displeased with the destruction, disguised himself as a bull and disappeared into the earth to evade them.
At Kalpeshwar, it is believed that Lord Shiva’s jata (matted hair) emerged from the ground, while other parts of his body manifested in different locations, which later became the Panch Kedar temples. These include Kedarnath (hump), Tungnath (arms), Madhyamaheshwar (navel), and Rudranath (face). The Pandavas, upon recognizing this sacred spot, built the Kalpeshwar Temple to honor Shiva’s divine presence.
The Story of Rishi Durvasa and the Kalpavriksha
In addition to its ties to the Pandavas, Kalpeshwar is also closely associated with Rishi Durvasa, a revered sage known for his intense penance and fiery temper. According to legend, Rishi Durvasa performed deep meditation and penance at Kalpeshwar, under the shade of the Kalpavriksha – the divine tree that fulfills all wishes.
How to Reach Kalpeshwar
The journey to Kalpeshwar begins with a short trek from Urgham Village, accessible by road from Helang, which lies on the Badrinath highway. The trek is approximately 2 kilometers and take pilgrims through the scenic beauty of Urgam Valley. Kalpeshwar is the only Kedar that is open all throughout the year for the devotees.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 272 kilometers from Urgham village. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to take you to Helang, from where the trek to Kalpeshwar begins.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, around 255 kilometers away from Urgham village. From Rishikesh, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Helang.
By Road: Kalpeshwar is accessible by road up to Helang, which is on the Badrinath Highway. From Helang, you can drive to Urgham village, after which a 2-kilometer trek will take you to the temple.
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