Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple is one of Nashik’s oldest temples, built in the 14th century which is located east of Ramakund and Panchavati in Nashik, Maharashtra, India. One of Nashik’s ancient Lord Shiva temples on the banks of the Godavari River is known as the “Lord Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple”. This is a magnificently constructed shrine situated in a peaceful environment.

The temple is unique because there is no Nandi Bull in front of the Shivalingam, which is extremely rare. A Puja is held every Monday at the Ramakund Ganga Ghat of Shree Kapaleshwar Mandir. Every day, many people come for Darshan at this temple.

Legend/Story Related to Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple has a legend surrounding it. According to Hindu Legends, Lord Shiva accidentally killed a cow which is termed as Gohatya in Hinduism. Nandi advised him to travel to Nashik and bathe in “Ramakund” to atone for his sin. According to Nandi’s instructions, Lord Shiva went to Nashik and cleansed himself by bathing in Ramakund. He then chanted a mantra near the temple’s current location.

Every temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has a Nandi, Mahadev’s vehicle, but this temple is unique in that it does not have one. It is believed that because Nandi advised Lord Shiva on how to atone for his sin of killing a cow, he considered Nandi to be his “Guru,” thus, there is no Nandi in this temple.

History of Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

This temple is unique in that it does not contain a statue of Lord Nandi, Shiva’s protector, as do other Shiva shrines. According to legend, Lord Shiva accidentally killed a cow and then sought a solution from Nandi to atone for his sin. Then Nandi invited him to visit Nashik and take a bath in Ramkund. As instructed by Nandi, he took a holy dip in Ramkund and performed Jaap for some time. The temple is located on the same site where Lord Shiva performed the Jaap.

The Architecture of Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

The Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple was in poor condition and surrounded by untouched nature. Recognizing the importance of his discovery, Raja Devadutta decided to renovate and build a magnificent temple around the Kapaleshwar Mahadev Lingam. He devoted his time, wealth, and efforts to setting up a magnificent structure that would stand as a symbol of hope and faith for future generations.

With the help of his people, skilled artisans, and architects, the temple was built, complete with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures depicting various aspects of Lord Shiva. The central shrine housed the Kapaleshwar Mahadev Lingam, which symbolized the power of destruction and regeneration.

As word spread about the temple and the king’s efforts, devotees from all over came to Nasik to seek the blessings of Shree Kapaleshwar Mahadev. The temple became a centre of faith and devotion, drawing people from all walks of life. The devotees offered prayers, performed rituals, and expressed gratitude for the abundant rains that eventually graced the land, bringing an end to the drought and restoring the kingdom’s prosperity.

Important Facts About Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

• Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple is a popular Shiva temple in Nashik. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that is visited by millions of devotees each year.
• Unlike other temples, the Kapaleshwar Temple does not have an idol of the Nandi Bull at the gate.
• The Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple enshrines Lord Shiva as a Shivalinga, but there is no Nandi idol here.  It happened because Lord Shiva followed Nandi’s advice and regarded him as his Guru.
• The Kapaleshwar Shivalinga is very old and was discovered around 1100 B.C. Some people discovered a tunnel on a hill near the Ramkund with a Shivalinga inside.
• The Muslim invaders demolished this temple at the confluence of the Aruna and Godavari rivers. Later it was built by Local Rulers.
• Every Monday is the busiest day of the year, and the holy festival of Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great fanfare. Special prayers are offered to Lord Mahadeva.

Best Time to Visit Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

This place is very heavenly and spiritual, and you can visit it all year. However, the best time to visit this temple is during the monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon season, this location receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it appear heavenly with its greenery and bringing freshness elsewhere.

Famous Festivals In Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

• Shravana: For happiness and wealth, many fasts, offerings, and mantras are performed during the fifth month of the Hindu calendar, known as Shravana.
• Mahashivaratri is a fasting ritual in the last week of February – March Begining. It is reminiscent of Lord Shiva bringing Goddess Parvati with him. Priests and the temple committee arrange a Grand Celebration.

How to Reach Kapaleshwar Mahadev Temple

Kapaleshwar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which is located in Nashik, Maharashtra.

By Air: The nearest airport from Nashik is about 175 km away in Mumbai which is both domestic and international.

By Rail: Nashik has a well-connected railway station at the central railway station. The temple is 10.5 Km from the main railway station.

By Road:  Kapaleshwar Temple is located near the Ramkund, about two kilometres from the main bus station.

Also Read – Trikuteshwara Temple