A Sacred Lord Shiva Cave Temple Surrounded by Lush Forest, 2 km from Pithoragarh
Kapileshwar Temple is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 2 km from Pithoragarh town. The temple is set within a natural cave in a forested hillside and is believed to be one of the oldest Shiva shrines in the Kumaon region. The cave has a natural Shivalinga and the atmosphere inside is serene and spiritually charged.
A pleasant forest walk leads from the town to the temple, making it a popular spot for both pilgrims and nature lovers. The surrounding forest is home to various bird species and the trail offers glimpses of the valley below. A small stream flows nearby. The temple is particularly busy on Shivaratri and other Shiva festivals when devotees from across the region come to offer prayers.
February–March for Shivaratri. Year-round for pilgrimage. October to April for the most pleasant forest walk.
Nearest railway: Kathgodam (196 km). Taxi to Pithoragarh.
Bus to Pithoragarh; temple 2 km from bus stand.
2 km from Pithoragarh. Short walk or auto-rickshaw from town.