Tapkeshwar Temple, also referred to as the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple stands as a prominent Hindu shrine situated in the city of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and occupies a distinctive position due to its unique location along the banks of the Tons River. The temple`s structural foundation is positioned directly atop a natural cave, which serves as the sacred abode for the principal deity, the Shivalinga.

Legend of Tapkeshwar Temple
The Tapkeshwar Temple boasts a rich history that dates back approximately 6,000 years, establishing it as an ancient place of worship. A distinctive feature of this temple is its natural shivalinga, enshrined within a cavern, which has garnered deep reverence among the local populace.
Furthermore, local legend associates the cave with Dronacharya, the revered teacher of the Pandavas and Kauravas in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Consequently, this cavern is colloquially known as the "Drona Cave" in his honor. The legend narrates a touching story of Dronacharya`s wife, Kalyani, who faced challenges in nourishing their newborn son, Ashwatthama. Hindered by their financial constraints and the inability to afford a cow or cow`s milk, Ashwatthama turned to Lord Shiva in prayer.
In response to the young boy`s devotion, Lord Shiva manifested His divine grace by providing nourishment to Ashwatthama in a remarkable manner. Milk, believed to be a symbol of divine sustenance, began to flow from the sacred shivalinga within the cave, thus fulfilling Ashwatthama`s needs and illustrating the profound spiritual significance of Tapkeshwar Temple.
It is believed that within the sanctuary of this temple, Guru Dronacharya, a prominent figure in Hindu mythology, bestowed celestial knowledge upon his son Ashwatthama through rigorous penance. This divine instruction encompassed the secrets of potent celestial weapons, including the formidable Bramhashir Astra and the Narayan (Vaishanav Astra), thereby adding to the temple`s sanctity.

Mystery of Tapkeshwar Temple
The enigma surrounding the Tapkeshwar Temple lies in the captivating phenomenon that unfolds within its confines. As visitors enter the sanctified precincts of this temple, they are greeted by a remarkable spectacle that lends the temple its distinctive name.
Within the hallowed confines of the temple, a continuous downpour of water droplets descends from the cave`s ceiling, gently trickling down over the Shivalinga. This incessant cascade of water has bestowed upon the temple the appellation of "Tapkeshwar," signifying the temple`s unique characteristic.
The temple`s allure extends beyond its religious significance, attracting travelers from Uttarakhand and beyond. Adventurous souls are drawn to the Drona cave, wherein this captivating display of water droplets adorning the Shiva linga unfolds in all its splendor. An intriguing aspect of this phenomenon is that the water, after caressing the Shivalinga, mysteriously vanishes underground, only to resurface a few yards away in the form of a stream. This enigmatic cycle adds to the temple`s mystique and continues to intrigue those who visit.
Moreover, the Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple offers a unique opportunity for spiritual purification. Cool sulphur-water springs are a prominent feature, where devout pilgrims partake in ritualistic bathing before entering the temple. This practice not only underscores the temple`s religious significance but also underscores the profound spiritual connection that visitors seek to establish with this mystical site.

Tapkeshwar Temple as Pilgrimage
The Tapkeshwar Temple, nestled at the foot of the Himalayas, holds a profound significance in the sacred land of Uttarakhand, often drawing the revered Naga Sadhus to its hallowed grounds. Tapkeshwar Temple enjoys dual renown as both a tourist attraction and a revered pilgrimage site in the city of Dehradun. Pilgrims, in pursuit of spiritual cleansing, engage in the ritualistic practice of bathing in the nearby sulphur-water springs before making their way to the temple. This act underscores the temple`s importance as a place of spiritual rejuvenation and devotion.
Surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of hills, the Drona Cave, where the temple is situated, also holds appeal as a favored spot for picnickers hailing from Dehradun and neighboring districts. Thus, Tapkeshwar Temple, with its spiritual aura and natural splendor, stands as a testament to the convergence of religious reverence and natural beauty, welcoming both pilgrims and travelers alike.

Religious Festivals at Tapkeshwar Temple
The Tapkeshwar Temple is the focal point for significant religious festivities that hold immense importance in the local culture. These religious events play an integral role in the temple`s calendar.

Shivratri Festival: One of the most prominent and widely celebrated occasions at the temple is the Shivratri festival. This annual event attracts a large congregation of devotees who gather to pay homage to Lord Shiva. The temple committee takes the initiative to organize and provide free meals for the devout pilgrims during this auspicious celebration, fostering a sense of community and spiritual togetherness.

Holi Celebrations: Another noteworthy event associated with the Tapkeshwar Temple is the celebration of Holi. During this vibrant festival, a local theater group known as "Hamari Pehchan" commences their holiday performance within the temple`s premises. This tradition adds a cultural and artistic dimension to the religious significance of the temple, creating a unique blend of devotion and cultural celebration.