Mahadev Chandrashekhar Temple — Attraction in Odisha

At an altitude of 2,150 ft, Kapilash is called the Kailash of Odisha. The getaway is located atop an undulating lush green hillock close to the headquarters of Dhenkanal district, also called Dhenkanal. The region was once part of the ancient capital of Keshari kingdom and known as Chowduar.

The gateway to Kapilash is Dhenkanal town, 26 km away. Pick up your provisions here before heading up. You will be able to find basic ration even at Kapilash.

Surrounded on all sides by the Eastern Ghats, Kapilash is quite picturesque. There is an abundance of Sal, Segun, Kendu, Marula, and Mahua apart from many other plants. The fauna consists mainly of monkeys, jungle cats, peacocks and squirrels. The dense forests and the presence of wild animals draws many nature-lovers to this area.

The people of the region believe that Kapilash is the abode of Lord Chandrasekhar or Shiva. There is a popular temple atop the hill. This is surrounded by a cluster of other shrines and a medieval fort. Nearly 2,000 steps lead to the main temple. There is also a serpentine Motorable Road.

The temples of Narayana and Viswanath on the hilltop are also popular places of pilgrimage. Some distance away is a ridge on which stands the relics of a ruined fort and a few ancient caves.

The deer park was the solitary attraction of the foothills till a science park was built adjacent to it. For children, the two parks remain the top draw of Kapilash.

The tourism department of the Odisha government provides the best accommodation option. Not only is its Panthashala quite comfortable, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare is available at reasonable rates.

A stay at the tourism department bungalow will help you recharge your batteries. The surroundings are serene and free of pollution. The lush green vista and oxygen-rich air are guaranteed to provide a welcome diversion from city life.

Having said that, Kapilash is not really a place for those looking for adventure. Lie back and laze around for as long as you can. A leisurely walk is the most strenuous activity you can possibly undertake here.

There is a trail to explore, though. It leads through the jungle around the bungalow to a spring. Its water is believed to be a cure for many a disease.

Deogaon, 5 km way, is worth a visit, even if only in search of sustenance. Many tourists at Kapilash go there to buy chicken!

If you do not want to take all that trouble for a meaty mouthful, place your order in advance with the manager of Panthashala and he will take care of the rest.

Saptasajya is another charming spot, 11 km from Dhenkanal. Visit the temples of Saptarshi and Raghunath there. Legend has it that the Pandavas had taken shelter here while in hiding.

You can also go on an excursion to Joranda, now growing in popularity among tourists. Followers of the Mahima cult visit Joranda as pilgrimage. It is also famous for handicrafts.

The hills around Kapilash form the rough boundary of the Cuttack and Dhenkanal districts. Of the numerous peaks, the loftiest is Kapilash.

The abode of Shiva comes alive during the most important festival of the region, Shivratri. Thousands of pilgrims gather here from various parts of the state. Some come from as far off as Cuttack. Devotees carry the water of the Mahanadi in earthen vessels on their shoulders. They trek barefoot to the hilltop before pouring the water on the Shivling. The fair held to celebrate the occasion continues...

This temple is the pride and cultural pivot of dhenkanal district....odisha The main tower of the temple is 60 feet tall. There are two approaches to the temple. One is by climbing 1352 steps and the other is thru Barabanki or travelling by the twisting way. King Narasinghdeva III of Ganga Dynasty constructed the temple for Sri Chandrasekhar in 1246 CE as indicated in the Kapilash temple inscription. Work completed in 1352 CE,to remember this 1352 steps were constructed.......In the left side of the temple the Payamrta Kunda and in the right side the Marichi Kunda exist. The temple has a wooden Jagamohana. Sri Ganesh, Kartikeya, Gangadevi, etc. are found in the temple. Patita pavana Jagannath is installed in the temple as the Parsa Deva. Lord Vishwanath temple is also situated in Kapilash. According to some scholars this temple is older than the Chandrasekhar temple, hence it is known as Budha Linga. There are many legends about Kapilash pitha and its significance. Tradition describes it as the ashram of Kapila, to some scholars it is the second Kailash of Lord Shiva. Shridhar Swami who wrote commentary on Bhagavata Purana stayed there. There are some monasteries in the premises.

Here for specific regions, different bramhins are present for worship...so when you go to temple,bramhins ask you first..from which place have you come?? Then they direct to the designated bramhin of that perticular place..... I found it weird... because now a days.... tourists come from far distant places...so exploiting them on the basis of this ancient hierarchy is absorb.... The main thing is behaviour of bramhins will make the tourist uncomfortable... The scenic view from the top of the hill is awe strucking.... From temple if you go upward...then first sita entudisala is there...this is basically a small cave... Then up to sita entudisala..Deva sabha is there....this is the highest point of kapilash hill range.... Trecking from mandir to devsabha is medium level difficulty.... Flora and fauna flourished best here during the rainy season....you will feel the heavenly touch during monsoon.... Monkey population is too much here....if you are having Prasad with you..then definitely a monkey is going to snatch it from you.... A small waterfall is also flowing beside the temple...but it have good flow during the rainy season only.... For trekkers and devotees who have manasika....1352 staircase is the best experience... You will enjoy the scenic view of the surrounding environment....steps are wide and slop is also low...it will not make you exhaust....once I have gone up and down..in one flow....so much excitement going on..but next day I can't pick up my a**.still I enjoy the process... The main road through which vehicles pass is a beautiful road with 12 turns ..so famously known as 12 banka rasta... Below the hill..there is a vast space for picnic purpose...and a deer park and amusement garden for small childrens....100s of deer are being kept here and some birds and a crocodile....

During Shiva ratri,and srabana month Mondays...lakhs of devotees come here for worship and...

Kapilash Temple, nestled in the serene town of Dhenkanal, Odisha, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Rising majestically atop the Kapilash Hill amidst lush greenery, the temple exudes spiritual charm and architectural elegance.

As one ascends the 2239 feet high hill through a series of steps or a paved road, the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape create an enchanting aura. The temple's architecture, primarily Kalinga style, showcases intricate carvings and sculptures that narrate mythological tales.

The presiding deity, Lord Chandrasekhar (Shiva), is worshipped with immense fervor by devotees who visit seeking blessings, particularly during the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. The sanctum sanctorum houses the sacred Shiva Linga, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike, drawn not only by religious significance but also by the tranquil ambiance.

Besides its religious importance, Kapilash offers a refreshing escape into nature. The trek to reach the temple, though sometimes challenging, rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas and a sense of spiritual rejuvenation.

The temple complex encompasses other shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses, complementing the main sanctum. The serene atmosphere atop the hill allows for peaceful meditation and introspection.

Local festivals like Kartik Purnima and Shivratri witness lively celebrations and rituals, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. The nearby attractions, including the captivating Chandrashekhar Temple caves and the vibrant town of Dhenkanal, add depth to the overall experience.

However, facilities for visitors such as accommodation and amenities might be limited. It's advisable to plan the visit accordingly.

In conclusion, the Kapilash Temple stands as a blend of spirituality, architectural splendor, and natural beauty. Its historical significance, coupled with the tranquil setting, makes it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and those with an inclination towards cultural...