Mukteshwar is a sleazy hamlet and a tourist destination situated in Nainital district in the state of Uttaranchal. Mukteshwar is located at an average elevation of 2171 meters. The place is rich in pictorial beauty with awesome view of the Indian Himalayas. The town is rich in scenic splendor and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas.

History of the Temple:

Mukteshwar temple is considered as one of the most sacred places to visit. A 350- year old temple, also known as Mukteshwar Dham is devoted to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, it is believed that a demon and a goddess fought a battle at this place. One can still find the faint outlines of what resembles a sword, a shield and a trunk of an elephant which stands there as an evidence of the battle.

The temple is not merely an abode of the deity but a shraddhanjali (offering) to the most sacred god. There are many myths attached with this temple. It is believed that Lord Shiva killed a demon at this place and he granted him salvation or mukti.

Behind the temple is situated Chauli Ki Jali, originally known as Chauthi Jali. It is a magnificent place situated on the cliff. From the cliff you can have invigorating and panoramic views of splendid Himalayan range and enchanting valley of Kumaon region. There are many sacred stories related to the cliff near the temple. There is a natural pattern around the rock here and it is believed that barren women who take their head out of the hole in the rock are blessed with a baby.

Another story associated with the temple goes as follows. A group of devotees were on their way to visit Kailash Mansarovar and at this dangerous rock climbing point they prayed Lord Shiva to help them out. Lord Shiva blessed the Guru with immense power and asked him to hit the rock four times. A hole appeared on the hard rock surface when the guru hit it fourth time.

The Shiva temple here is considered immensely powerful. This place has been Tapobhoomi for ages. Shree Mukteshwar Maharaj ji did tapasya here for more than 40 years. His cottage and Samadhi are located at the back of the temple.

The Temple:

The temple of Mukteshwar is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has been a centre of high devotion amongst the locals and this holy shrine holds immense significance amongst the people of Uttarakhand state. Mukteshwar temple is situated atop a hill from where view of nature is enchanting. One of the copious rock cut temples of India, it is set in the center of luxuriant green background mainly consisting of fruit orchards and coniferous tree-plants. The top of the mountain on which Mukteshwar temple stands provides astonishing vistas of the imposing Himalayan range. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is an abode to white marble Shivling with a copper yoni. Besides the Lingam or the Shivling, idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Hanuman, Ganesh and Nandi also adorn the temple. The temple can be reached by climbing a series of meandering and sharp stone stairs. The trekking to the temple is an experience in itself for those looking for some adventure. Those who want to experience divine stance can dedicate themselves to the blessings of the lord.

On the occasion of Shivratri, a large number of devotees visit the temple and offer milk and water to the statuette. The temple offers a beautiful view of the surroundings that one can enjoy in the serene atmosphere of the place.