Koteshwar Mahadev Temple in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is a famous ancient temple located in Rudraprayag. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was constructed in the 14th century, after which the temple was rebuilt in the 16th and 17th centuries.

This temple situated in the form of a cave is situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River. According to beliefs, Lord Shiva had meditated in this cave while going to Kedarnath and the idol here is by naturally manufactured.

Within the cave, here natural statue and Shivling have been established since ancient times. It is said about this temple that Lord Shiva spent some time staying in the cave near this temple to escape the Bhasmasur.

Bhasmasur had received this boon by doing penance of Shiva, that on whose head he would lay hands, he will become ashes at that moment. Later Lord Vishnu, with the help of the Mohini form, had assistance Lord Shiva while killing Bhasmasur.

A fair is organized here on the holy festival of Mahashivaratri. The beautiful view of the Alaknanda river flowing near the temple attracts devotees and tourists.

How To Reach Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

By Air

The nearest airport of Rudraprayag is Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, which is about 156 km from Rudraprayag.  

By Rail

The nearest railway station of Rudraprayag is Rishikesh, which is about 139 km from Rudraprayag.

By Road

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is located at a distance of about 3 km from Rudraprayag.

Best Time To Visit

The journey of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple can be done throughout the year, but the best time to visit here is between the months of October to May. Travelling here in these months is the best and enjoyable. During the winter season, the weather of here is cold.

Due to snowfall on the surrounding hills in the winter season, the temperature of here goes down very much.

Due to heavy rains in the rainy season, it is a bit difficult to travel of here because of heavy rains threatening landslides.