Daksha Mahadev Temple
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Daksha Mahadev Temple

A major Shiva temple in Kankhal, Daksha Mahadev is rooted in the Sati-Daksha yajna tradition and is one of Haridwar's most important Shravan pilgrimage sites.

Plan your visit

At a Glance: Essential Visitor Information

TimingsApprox. 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry feeFree
Time needed45-90 minutes
Best time to visitOctober to March for comfortable weather; Shravan for the major devotional atmosphere with heavy crowds.
From city centre4 KM
LocationHaridwar, Uttarakhand
Highlights

Why Visit Daksha Mahadev Temple?

  1. Kankhal pilgrimage

    One of the area's principal Shiva shrines.

  2. Daksha-Sati tradition

    Closely tied to one of Hinduism's major mythological narratives.

  3. Shravan devotion

    A major seasonal centre for Shiva worshippers.

  4. Sati Kund connection

    Easy to combine with the nearby sacred site.

  5. Old Haridwar heritage

    Experience Kankhal's distinctive temple-town character.

Know before you go

About Daksha Mahadev Temple

Daksha Mahadev Temple stands in Kankhal, one of Haridwar's traditional Panch Tirth areas. The shrine is associated in Hindu mythology with King Daksha's yajna and the self-immolation of Sati, a story central to the wider Shakti tradition.

The temple becomes especially busy during Shravan and works naturally with nearby Sati Kund and Kankhal's older religious streets.

Make the most of your visit

Things to Do at Daksha Mahadev Temple

Practical experiences you can include while visiting this attraction.

  1. 1 Take darshan of Lord Shiva
  2. 2 Learn the Daksha-Sati yajna tradition
  3. 3 Visit nearby Sati Kund
  4. 4 Walk through Kankhal's old pilgrimage area
  5. 5 Experience Shravan worship if visiting in season
Practical visitor guide

Plan Your Visit

Address / localityDaksha Mahadev Temple, Kankhal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Best time of dayEarly morning; expect much heavier crowds during Shravan.
Peak crowdVery high during Shravan, Mondays and Mahashivratri; moderate on ordinary days.
Closure / special accessNo regular weekly closure identified; timings may change during festivals.
ParkingUse local Kankhal parking and walk the final section during busy periods.
AccessibilityThe temple is in an urban neighbourhood and easier to approach than hill shrines, though festival queues can be dense.
What to carryWater, minimal valuables and comfortable footwear.
Ideal forShiva devotees, pilgrims, mythology-focused travellers and visitors exploring Kankhal.

Facilities

Prasad shops, basic pilgrim facilities and local market services are available around the temple.
Before you go

Visitor Tips & Restrictions

Visitor Tips

  • Visit early
  • Combine with Sati Kund
  • Expect heavy queues in Shravan
  • Dress modestly
  • Keep valuables secure during crowded Mondays
  • Explore Kankhal on foot to appreciate its older religious streets

Restrictions

  • Respect temple photography rules
  • Follow festival queue systems
  • Do not obstruct ritual areas
Getting there

How to Reach Daksha Mahadev Temple

Nearest railwayHaridwar Railway Station.
Nearest airportJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, about 37 km from Haridwar according to Uttarakhand Tourism.
Nearest bus standHaridwar bus stand / ISBT and local city transport points.
The temple is in Kankhal, south of central Haridwar, and is easily reached by auto, e-rickshaw, taxi or private vehicle.
Story & significance

History & Significance of Daksha Mahadev Temple

Uttarakhand Tourism identifies Daksha Mahadev Temple in Kankhal as the site traditionally associated with King Daksha's yajna. Hindu mythology recounts that Sati immolated herself in the sacrificial fire after her father Daksha insulted Lord Shiva.

The temple's religious importance therefore connects Haridwar's Shiva and Shakti traditions and gives Kankhal a distinct place within the city's sacred geography.

Special occasions

Festivals & Special Events

  • Shravan: The busiest annual period and a major Shiva pilgrimage season.
  • Mahashivratri: Important worship occasion.
  • Mondays in Shravan are especially crowded.
Quick answers

Frequently Asked Questions about Daksha Mahadev Temple

Why is Daksha Mahadev Temple famous?

It is associated with the Hindu tradition of King Daksha's yajna and Sati's self-immolation.

Where is it?

In Kankhal, a historic pilgrimage area of Haridwar.

What should I combine it with?

Sati Kund is the natural nearby companion.

When is it most crowded?

During Shravan, especially Mondays, and on Mahashivratri.

How much time is enough?

Around 45 to 90 minutes on a normal day.

Gallery

Photos of Daksha Mahadev Temple

Location

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Plan your day

Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit

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Maya Devi Temple ≈ 3.2 km
Maya Devi Temple One of Haridwar's most important ancient Shakti shrines, Maya Devi Temple is closely tied to the city's old name Mayapuri and its identity as a sacred pilgrimage centre. 3.2 km awayView details →
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≈ Straight-line distance from Daksha Mahadev Temple. The road route is usually longer.

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Daksha Mahadev Temple
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