Almora, located in the Devbhoomi of Uttarakhand, is famous for its ancient heritage, culture, and historical heritage. This land has witnessed primitive human settlements and early Aryan people. Almora is also mentioned in the Puranas and Mahabharata. The temples here, especially those built by the rulers of the Chand dynasty, are a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of ancient times. Almora became a major power center during the reign of the Chand dynasty in the 1500s.
Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, located at a short distance from Almora, has great historical importance. This temple is believed to be about 1200 to 1300 years old and was built by the rulers of the Katyur dynasty, who were followers of Shaivism. The Katyuris built many Shiva temples in Uttarakhand, of which Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple is prominent.
Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple is located at the confluence of Shakuni and Phadka rivers. The Shakuni river originates from Chaykhan village in Almora district, while the Phadka river originates from Motiyapathar village in Almora. The temple is located on the border of Nainital and Almora. The special style of the temple reflects the way of construction of the Katyuri dynasty, in which local light brown stones have been used.
There are many mythological stories associated with the construction of the temple and its features. According to a popular story, there was a rivalry between two serpents named Kapileshwar and Mauna. Both the serpents had decided to destroy each other's temples. Kapileshwar's serpent reached to destroy Mauna's temple and Mauna's serpent went towards Kapileshwar's temple. When Kapileshwar's serpent returned after completing its task first, Mauna's serpent accepted his defeat and returned. After this incident, it is believed that Kapileshwar's temple tilted a little. According to the locals, the white marks seen on the stones of the river flowing near the temple are the signs of the battle between the serpents.
The sanctum sanctorum of Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple is famous for the presence of a Swayambhu Shivling, which is believed to have emerged from the earth itself. Several generations of the Goswami family, the priests of the temple, have been worshipping the Shivling here. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped here in various forms. There are two grand statues installed at the entrance of the temple which symbolize the art of the Katyuris.
The tilt of the main building of Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple is a feature that attracts attention. Some people believe that the temple is tilted due to land subsidence, while others associate it with the mythological battle between the serpents. This tilt adds more depth to the mythology and mystery of the temple.
This ancient temple offers a beautiful view from Mauna-Lweshal. To reach Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple from Mukteshwar Dham, there is an attractive trek route, which covers a distance of about 9 km and passes through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. March and April are considered to be the best time to visit here, when the red rhododendrons bloom. If trekking is not possible, the temple can also be reached by road. About 45 minutes of drive from Mukteshwar and then a one-km slope takes you to Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple.
The rulers of the Katyuri dynasty were followers of Shaivism and built many Shiva temples in Uttarakhand. It is believed that they used to build temples in one night. If the construction was not completed by morning, it was left incomplete. According to this belief related to the construction of Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, its rear part was left incomplete, which was later completed by the local people.
Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple is not only a religious place but it is a symbol of the ancient culture, art, and history of Uttarakhand. This place is not only a center of faith for devotees but also for those who are interested in history and nature. Seeing this heritage of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and listening to its mythology is a unique experience that fills the mind with peace and satisfaction.