🛕 1. Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Lansdowne
Located around 36 km from Lansdowne, this peaceful Shiva temple sits amid thick pine and cedar forests. It’s believed that Goddess Parvati meditated here to win Lord Shiva’s heart.
Why You Should Visit:
1. Extremely serene and untouched by crowds
2. Surrounded by nature, perfect for meditation
3. Ancient energy and quiet forest charm
🛕 2. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Rishikesh
About 30 km from Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a highly revered site where Lord Shiva is believed to have consumed the poison during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). The temple is surrounded by dense forests and is located at the confluence of the Pankaja and Madhumati rivers.
Why You Should Visit:
1.Deep mythological significance
2.Short jungle trek or drive from Rishikesh
3.Lively during Shivratri with local fairs
🛕 3. Jhula Devi Temple – Ranikhet
Built in the 8th century and dedicated to Goddess Durga, Jhula Devi Temple is famous for hundreds of brass bells tied by devotees as a mark of fulfilled wishes. The name ‘Jhula’ comes from the idol of the goddess sitting on a swing (jhula).
Why You Should Visit:
1.Unique tradition of wish bells
2.Serene environment
3.Historical significance and local belief system
4. Baijnath Temple – Bageshwar
Situated on the banks of the Gomti River, this 12th-century stone temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s one of the most peaceful and spiritually powerful places in Kumaon.
Why You Should Visit:
1. Intricate ancient stone architecture
2. Calm and peaceful riverside atmosphere
3. A place of worship with historical charm
🛕 5. Kartik Swami Temple – Rudraprayag
Dedicated to Lord Kartikeya (the son of Lord Shiva), this hilltop temple offers one of the best 360° panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. It involves a 3 km trek from Kanakchauri village.
Why You Should Visit:
1. Stunning sunrise and Himalayan views
2. Ideal for trekking lovers and spiritual seekers
3. Offbeat and adventurous route
🛕 6. Dunagiri Temple – Almora
Situated at 8000 ft, this Shakti Peeth is believed to be the place where the Pandavas stayed during exile. The energy here is intense and spiritually powerful.
Why You Should Visit:
1. Strong mythological and spiritual energy
2. One of the most powerful temples in Kumaon
3. Less commercial and highly peaceful
🛕 7. Jageshwar Dham – Almora
One of the oldest temple complexes in India, Jageshwar Dham consists of 100+ stone temples, mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by dense deodar forests, it’s a perfect mix of history and devotion.
Why You Should Visit:
1. Architectural brilliance and spiritual calm
2. A place that feels frozen in time
3. Recognized by ASI for its heritage value
