Kalpeshwar is the fifth and final temple of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district at 2,200 meters (7,217 feet), this ancient cave temple is nestled in the Urgam Valley, surrounded by dense forests, apple orchards, and the roaring Alaknanda River tributaries.

Unlike its more famous counterparts (Kedarnath, Tungnath), Kalpeshwar remains peaceful and less crowded, offering:
✔ Unique Shiva Lingam – A self-manifested rock formation inside a natural cave
✔ Sacred Waterfall – Kalp Ganga stream flows over the temple’s sanctum
✔ Gateway to the Urgam Valley – A hidden Himalayan gem with terraced farms and traditional villages

The temple is special because:

It’s open year-round (unlike Kedarnath, which closes in winter)

The deity is worshipped as "Jata-dhari Shiva" (Shiva with matted locks)

It’s the only Panch Kedar temple accessible without a strenuous trek (short walk from Helang village)