Sree Daksheswar Mahadev Temple – History, Legends, Timings & Travel Guide

 

Sree Daksheswar Mahadev Temple – A Sacred Legacy in Kankhal, Haridwar

Nestled in the holy town of Kankhal, just 4 km from Haridwar Railway Station, the Sree Daksheswar Mahadev Temple stands as one of the five sacred places in Haridwar. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Daksheswar Mahadev, is not only a spiritual landmark but also a living reminder of one of Hindu mythology’s most poignant stories.

Historical Background & Architecture

• The temple was originally built in 1810 by Queen Dhankaur in the North Indian style of architecture.
• It was later renovated in 1962, giving it the form we see today.
• At the center of the temple lies the Shiva Lingam, worshipped as Daksheswar Mahadev.
• The complex also houses the Das Mahavidya temple, dedicated to the ten forms of the Divine Mother, and a shrine for River Ganga.

Mythological Significance

The temple is deeply tied to the legend of King Daksha Prajapati, father of Goddess Sati:

• Daksha organized a grand Yagya (sacrifice) but deliberately excluded his son-in-law, Lord Shiva.
• Feeling insulted, Sati immolated herself in the sacrificial fire.
• Enraged, Shiva created Virbhadra, who destroyed the Yagya and beheaded Daksha.
• Later, Shiva restored Daksha’s life, replacing his head with that of a goat.
• Repentant, Daksha sought forgiveness, and Shiva declared that he would reside in Kankhal during the holy month of Savan.
• The Daksha Mahadev Temple was built at the site of the Yagya Kund, making it a place of immense spiritual power.

Rituals & Festivals

• Daily Worship: Devotees offer prayers to the Shiva Lingam throughout the day.
• Maha Shivaratri: The temple witnesses thousands of devotees during this festival, with special pujas and night-long vigils.
• Navratri: The Das Mahavidya temple becomes a hub for Devi worshippers, with vibrant rituals and congregations.
• Savan Month: Considered especially auspicious, as Lord Shiva is believed to reside here.

Temple Timings

• Open daily: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

How to Reach

• By Rail: Just 4 km from Haridwar Railway Station.
• By Road: Easily accessible by auto, taxi, or local buses from Haridwar city.
• By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~35 km).

Nearby Highlights

• Daksha Ghat: Located next to the temple on the banks of the Ganga, ideal for ritual bathing.
• Other Sacred Spots in Haridwar: Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, and Chandi Devi Temple can be combined in a pilgrimage circuit.

Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings for peaceful darshan. The month of Savan and Maha Shivaratri are especially auspicious.
• Footwear: Leave footwear at designated stands before entering the temple.
• Combine Visits: Plan a circuit with Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, and Chandi Devi temples nearby.
• Facilities: Carry water and light snacks; temple premises are simple and devotional.
• Photography: Respect temple rules—avoid taking photos inside sanctum areas.
• Transport: Autos and taxis are easily available from Haridwar city; the temple is only 4 km from the railway station. 

Q&A

Q: Where is Daksheswar Mahadev Temple located?
A: In Kankhal town, about 4 km from Haridwar Railway Station, Uttarakhand.

Q: Who is worshipped here?
A: Lord Shiva as Daksheswar Mahadev, in phallic (lingam) form.

Q: What is the temple’s mythological significance?
A: It marks the site of King Daksha’s Yagya, where Goddess Sati immolated herself and Lord Shiva sent Virbhadra to destroy the ritual. Daksha was later revived with a goat’s head.

Q: When was the temple built?
A: Originally in 1810, rebuilt in 1962.

Q: What other shrines are in the complex?
A: The Das Mahavidya temple (for the ten forms of Devi) and a shrine dedicated to River Ganga. Nearby is Daksha Ghat on the Ganges.

Q: What are the temple timings?
A: Daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Q: Which festivals are celebrated here?
A: Maha Shivaratri draws huge crowds, and Navratri sees special pujas at the Das Mahavidya temple.

Q: How do I reach the temple?
A: It is 4 km from Haridwar Railway Station, accessible by auto, taxi, or local buses. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~35 km).