Guide To Mukteshwar Temple, Nainital

Highlights

Mythology

According to Hindu legend, Mukteshwar Temple is situated on the site where Lord Shiva granted salvation, or Mukti, to a demon that he had killed. In the Hindu epic text, Mahabharata, the Pandavas created this temple during their 12-year-long exile to honor Lord Shiva and pray for salvation from their troubles.

Today, Mukteshwar Temple is considered to be one of the most important Shiva temples according to Puranas, and the shrine is believed to be blessed. The temple still serves as a place of continued worship, and many devotees visit throughout the year.

Architecture

Mukteshwar Temple is around 350 years old, and it is from this temple that the surrounding hillside town gets its name. The exterior of this temple is relatively simple, with stone steps leading inside. Within the shrine’s interior is a white marble Shiva linga and a copper yoni, as well as idols of the Goddess Parvati, Lord Brahma, and Lord Vishnu.

Mukteshwar Temple sits 2,312 meters (7585 feet) above sea level and boasts terrific views of the surrounding mountains.

Breathtaking views

Due to its staggering mountain location, visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramas. On a clear day, you can admire many snow-capped crests along the Himalayas, including Nandakot, Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and Nanda Devi, which is India’s second-highest peak. Many travelers also suggest visiting in the evening for beautiful sunset views.

Outdoor recreation

The cliffs surrounding Mukteshwar Temple are the perfect backdrop for a variety of adventure sports. For a thrilling outdoor activity, visitors can try rock climbing or rappel down the hanging cliffs. Hiking is another popular pursuit in the area, and it affords visitors amazing views of the mountains as well as the forest that surrounds Mukteshwar Temple. Many local guides offer trekking adventures or short nature walks, which is a fantastic way to learn more about local flora and fauna, as well as the history of the area.

Apple orchards

Many apple trees surround Mukteshwar Temple, and you can also enjoy a stroll through the fragrant orchards. These apples make a delicious snack as they are fresh and organic, and you can pay to go pick your own apples.

Travel tips

When to visit

Mukteshwar Temple is open daily from 5 am to 7:30 pm, including during public holidays. While the temple is open year-round, Mukteshwar does have a subtropical highland climate with a monsoon season stretching between July and September. Summer is the best time for adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling. Winters can also be quite cold, so it is always best to check the weather and dress appropriately.

Entry to Mukteshwar Temple

There is no entry fee to enter Mukteshwar Temple.

Appropriate dress

Make sure you dress appropriately and wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting. Regardless of faith, visitors should wear modest or conservative clothing when entering the temple. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as you may want to walk through the surrounding forest after visiting the shrine.

Accessibility

Visitors will have to ascend a series of steep steps to enter the temple. Visitors with mobility concerns or seniors might have issues managing the climb.

How to get there

Mukteshwar Temple is located in the hilltop town of Mukteshwar, approximately one kilometer (0.6 miles) from the Mukteshwar market.

By car

The town of Mukteshwar is well-connected by roads to many nearby towns and is easily accessible by car. Parking is available near many sites in town, including the Mukteshwar market.

By bus

The destination is also accessible by bus, and many routes connect to nearby towns like Haldwani, Nainital, and Almora.

By taxi

Many taxis can take you to Mukteshwar from nearby towns.

By rail

The nearest railway station to Mukteshwar is Kathgodam railway station, which is 64 km (nearly 40 miles) away. However, many taxis can take you from Kathgodam to Mukteshwar, and there are several buses that can take you between the two locations.

Mukteshwar Temple information

Mukteshwar Temple

Address: Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263138, India

Opening hours: 5am - 7:30pm (daily)

Cost: Free

Website: Department of tourism