Koteshwar Mahadev temple

Introduction to Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple lies on the banks of the River Alaknanda. This unique cave temple is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Devotees have to descend 100 steps to reach the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple. This is an ancient and important pilgrim spot in the Himalayan temple circuit dedicated to Koteshwar, one of Shiva's many avatars.

Legend of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

According to the legends, Shiva meditated at this place while going to Kedarnath. As per the mythological beliefs, Shiva came here when the demon Bhasmasur tried to kill him and snatch his power. Shiva came to Koteshwar Mahadev Temple and meditated to seek Vishnu's support. Pleased with Shiva’s mediation, Vishnu appeared in this place and killed Bhasmasur.

As per another legend, the Pandavas came to this place to receive the blessings of Shiva and seek forgiveness for the sins they committed in the Kurukshetra battle. But Shiva was unwilling to forgive their sins and left the place. A demon named Bhasmasur requested Shiva to grant deliverance to the Pandavas. But Shiva replied that if anyone arrived at this place with a wish, he would bless them and fulfill their desires.

The Architecture of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

The Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, Rudraprayag, is an ancient temple dating back thousands of years. This cave temple is part of a huge mountain. According to the locals, this mountain around the temple has thousands of Shivalingas. Pilgrims can see over 15 Shivalingas on the way to the temple.

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is a naturally formed structure. In medieval times, the Garhwal rulers created several rock steps and pathways to reach it. These steps look beautiful with granite carvings.

The main idol is a self-manifested Linga (Swayambu). It is made of a thick black stone. A spring flows down from the upper parts of it, and it falls over the Shivalinga, making it more divine.

During the monsoon, the waterfalls cover the cave, which presents a stunning spectacle. Devotees can feel incredible energy and aura in the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple.

Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, and Durga idols are present here. The unique aspect of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is that it houses many idols, and all these idols are formed naturally. Drops of water seeping through the cave drop on the Shivalinga.

Festivals in the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Mahashivratri is an important festival that attracts huge crowds to the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple. Once every four years, the idol of Koteshwar Mahadev is brought out, adorned in colorful flowers, ornaments, etc., and on a decorated palanquin. A golden crown adorns the idol's head on this occasion. A golden umbrella travels along with the idol to provide shade.

Benefits of Worshipping at Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is famous for granting boons to childless couples. Infertile couples come here to seek the blessings of the deity for progeny.