Tapkeshwar Temple Dehradun
A 6,000-year-old cave shrine in Dehradun where natural water droplets bless a Shivling, offering a unique spiritual and natural experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Tapkeshwar Temple Dehradun
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 6,000-year-old cave shrine in Dehradun where natural water droplets bless a Shivling, offering a unique spiritual and natural experience.
"Experience divinity where Himalayan water droplets bless ancient stone."
👟 Wear Anti-Slip Shoes
Cave floor gets slippery, especially in monsoon. Protect yourself from falls!
🚗 Easy Access by Car/Taxi
Ample parking available. Taxis and autos are readily accessible from the city.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dripping Shivling
Inside the natural cave
Witness the divine spectacle of water droplets naturally falling onto the ancient Shivling, a unique spiritual phenomenon.
Drona Cave's Mystique
The main cave shrine
Explore the historic cave believed to be the meditation site of Guru Dronacharya, steeped in ancient lore.
Tons River Serenity
Adjacent to the temple
Enjoy the peaceful flow of the Tons River, adding to the natural beauty and tranquility of the temple surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Navigating the Cave and Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Anti-Slip Shoes
Cave floor gets slippery, especially in monsoon. Protect yourself from falls!
🚗 Easy Access by Car/Taxi
Ample parking available. Taxis and autos are readily accessible from the city.
🙏 Local Offerings
Buy flowers & bilva leaves at entrance stalls for offerings.
💧 Experience the 'Tapak'
Feel the divine water droplets blessing the Shivling inside the cave.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Anti-Slip Shoes
Cave floor gets slippery, especially in monsoon. Protect yourself from falls!
🚗 Easy Access by Car/Taxi
Ample parking available. Taxis and autos are readily accessible from the city.
🙏 Local Offerings
Buy flowers & bilva leaves at entrance stalls for offerings.
💧 Experience the 'Tapak'
Feel the divine water droplets blessing the Shivling inside the cave.
🧘 Combine with Nearby Spots
Visit Sahastradhara or Robber's Cave for a fuller day trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tapkeshwar Temple is lauded for its unique cave setting, the mesmerizing natural 'Jal Abhishek' on the Shivling, and its serene natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the spiritual ambiance and the historical significance tied to Guru Dronacharya. However, some note the slippery cave floors and the potential for crowds during peak times.
"Surrounded by greenery and built around a natural cave, the temple has a calming atmosphere .The continuous water droplets falling on the Shiva Linga adds a unique, serene charm.
The walk down to the temple is beautiful, and the sound of the flowing river nearby makes the whole experience even more soothing. The cave itself is cool and naturally lit, giving it a sacred and ancient feel."
Gopika M
"It’s truly a divine experience for every spiritual seeker! The temple is nestled amidst majestic caves, with the fiercely flowing Asan River adding to its serenity and power. The entire atmosphere feels sacred — surrounded by spiritual idols and symbols that radiate peace and devotion.
🕉️ This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Mahadev (Shiva). It is named “Baba Tapkeshwar” because water droplets continuously fall from the cave’s roof directly onto the Shiva Linga — symbolizing the eternal blessing of Mahadev Himself.
Visiting this place fills your heart with a sense of calm, purity, and deep devotion. Truly, a must-visit for all devotees seeking the divine grace of Mahadev."
Yaduveer Singh
"It's just a divine experience for the spiritual seekers!! The temple is present amidst the panorama of caves, the fiercely flowing "Asan" river by its side and many more pictures and idols of religious and spiritual significance. This temple is basically dedicated to Mahadev and is named after the fact that the water droplets fall continuously from the roof inside the cave directly on the Shiva Linga (the symbolic of Mahadev); hence the name goes Baba Tapkeshwar!!
A must visit devotional site for seeking blessings of Mahadev!!
Har Har Mahadev!! Baba Tapkeshwar sabke upar apni kripa drishti banaye rakhe!!🔱📿🙏❤️"
Swagat Swarup Sahoo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Rajpur Road, catch a bus to Ballupur Chowk, then take a shared auto (Tata Magic) to Tapkeshwar Temple. You can also find shared autos from ISBT.
Yes, the temple is about 6-8 km from Dehradun city and easily reachable by car or taxi. There is ample parking available.
Tapkeshwar Temple is approximately 6 km from Dehradun Railway Station, making it a short and convenient journey.
During monsoon season, be aware of potential river flooding that might affect access roads or bridges, as seen with the Tons River. 
Yes, auto-rickshaws are available for your return journey from the temple to various parts of Dehradun.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit the main temple premises. However, parking and a lift service are available for a nominal charge.
The temple is generally open from early morning until evening. For the best experience with fewer crowds, aim for 5-7 AM or during the evening aarti.
Yes, visiting during festivals like Maha Shivratri is a unique experience, though expect larger crowds. The temple hosts a vibrant mela during this time.
As it is a religious site, modest clothing is recommended. Avoid revealing attire out of respect for the sanctity of the temple.
Yes, a paid lift service is available for visitors who may find it difficult to walk into the cave.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Shivling is naturally formed within a cave, and water droplets continuously drip onto it from the cave ceiling, creating a unique 'Jal Abhishek'.
The cave is generally safe, but the floor can be slippery, especially during monsoons. It's advisable to walk cautiously and wear appropriate footwear.
The cave is believed to be where Guru Dronacharya performed his penance and taught the Pandavas and Kauravas, hence its name.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other devotees and the sanctity of the place. Some areas might have restrictions.
The temple is set amidst lush green hills and the scenic Tons River, offering a peaceful and beautiful natural environment. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food restaurants available outside the temple premises catering to devotees and visitors.
You can find local Indian cuisine and snacks at the eateries located around the temple complex.
The restaurants cater to visitors, offering a convenient option for a meal after your visit. Quality can vary.
Most Indian eateries around religious sites offer vegetarian options, so you should be able to find suitable choices.
While specific recommendations are scarce, exploring local North Indian fare is a good bet.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique cave entrance, the dripping Shivling, the Tons River, and the surrounding lush greenery. The lamp-lit Shivling is also a great subject.
Photography is generally permitted inside the cave, but always be respectful of the religious atmosphere and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful. During monsoon, the misty atmosphere adds a unique charm.
There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions, but it's always best to check local regulations or inquire on-site before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the cave and surrounding landscapes. A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for the cave interior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the slippery cave floor and ensure children wear appropriate footwear. The need to bend to enter the cave might also be a consideration for very young children. The paid lift service can be a helpful option for families with strollers or very young children. Consider combining the visit with nearby attractions like Sahastradhara for a more comprehensive family outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are paid parking and lift services, these are reasonably priced. You can find local eateries around the temple offering budget-friendly meals. Bringing your own water and snacks can further reduce costs. The natural beauty of the surroundings also provides a free and enjoyable experience.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Visiting during the evening aarti or early morning hours can enhance the spiritual immersion. The tranquil environment, away from the city's noise, allows for introspection and meditation. The temple's significance as a Jyotirlinga adds to its spiritual allure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend and Significance of Tapkeshwar Temple
The temple is considered one of the significant pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand, often referred to as one of the 108 Jyotirlingas. The natural setting, with the Tons River flowing nearby and surrounded by lush green hills, enhances the spiritual experience. During the monsoon season, the cave walls glisten with moss, and the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting, with the river roaring beside the cave.
The annual Tapkeshwar Mela, held during Maha Shivratri, transforms the temple into a vibrant hub of devotion and cultural festivities, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. This festival typically spans 10-12 days, offering a glimpse into local traditions and celebrations.
Navigating the Cave and Ensuring Safety
A crucial aspect of visiting the cave is the slippery floor. Water constantly drips from the cave ceiling, making the ground wet and potentially hazardous, especially during the monsoon months. It is highly recommended to wear anti-slip footwear or shoes with good grip to prevent accidents. Many visitors have noted the need to walk cautiously.
For those who might find the walk or the bent posture challenging, a paid lift service is available. This ensures that the spiritual experience is accessible to a wider range of visitors, including the elderly and those with mobility issues. Ample parking is also available outside the temple complex, adding to the convenience for those arriving by private vehicle.
The Natural Beauty and Riverfront
The area around the temple is characterized by rolling hills and verdant landscapes, making it a popular spot for picnics. The combination of natural beauty and spiritual ambiance makes Tapkeshwar Temple a holistic destination. Visitors often find themselves mesmerized by the scenic views, which are a stark contrast to the urban environment.
While the natural beauty is a major draw, some reviews mention that the river ghats could be cleaner. However, the overall experience of being in harmony with nature while seeking spiritual solace remains a highlight for most visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit