The place is known for its temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by thick forests of cedar and pine, it is an ideal place for those who seek for beauty in nature. During Shivratri, a special worship is held. The temple committee provides a Dharamshala for accommodation.
Shrine’s History
Known by adding the name of a demon ‘Tarkeshwar or Tadkeshwar’ with Lord shiva ‘Mahadev’, Tarkeshwar Mahadev is a temple of deep faith and devotion to Lord Shiva. As per the legends, Tarkasur was a demon who meditated and worshipped Lord Shiva at this location for a boon.Happy with Tarkasur immense devotion and worship, Lord Shiva gave him a boon of immortality as per Tarkasur request except for Lord Shiva’s son. Satisfied with the thought that Lord Shiva follows ‘Vairagya’ , Tarkasur accepts Lord Shiva boon condition of immortality.Tarkasur was started evil by killing saints and destroy peaceful environment on earth. Saints and sages asked for help from Lord Shiva. Disturbed by wrong doings of Tarkasur, Lord Shiva married with Parvati and Kartikeya was born. Kartikeya soon killed Tarkasur but at the time of death Tarkasur makes prayer to Lord Shiva and asked for pardon. Mahadev then attached his name to the temple where Tarkasur meditated once and gave him the boon to be prayed in Kalyug also.
That place named as Tarkeshwar Mahadev.Earlier there was a Shivling present at the Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple, but now a Lord Shiva idol performing tandava is worshipped. This Lord Shiva idol was discovered a few years ago at the same place where Shivling was present. An Ashram and Dharmashala is present at the temple. With prior information of visit in advance, one can stay and breakfast, lunch and dinner can be served as per Ashram rules at the Dharamshala.On the day of Mahashivratri, Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple becomes full of devotees came from far away places. Many devotees believed that Lord shiva is still there and is in deep sleep. Thousands of bells encircled the temple which is offered by the devotees.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
Lansdowne Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is located at 38 km from Lansdowne and can be reached easily by hiring the taxi from Lansdowne to Gundalkhet village. From the village, the temple is just 1 km ahead which can easily trek.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is kotdwara.
By Air
The nearest airport is jolly-grant-airport-Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Events Celebrated at This Shrine
Shivaratri