Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple

Getting there

• By air

  Bagdogra Airport, in West Bengal, is the gateway to Gangtok and the other hill stations. The Soreng district government page puts it about 125 km from Gyalshing.

• By road

  Legship lies on the main road that links Gyalshing with the rest of Sikkim, on the banks of the Rangit river. Gyalshing is connected to Gangtok, the capital, by a metalled road.

Why devotees come here

Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site at Legship in Gyalshing district, Sikkim, on the banks of the Rangit river. It is believed to be one of the holiest and oldest Shiva temples in the state. The main object of worship is a Shiva Linga.

Legend says Shiva appeared on this spot to Arjuna in the form of Kirateshwar, the hunter. The name means master of the Kiratas. Shiva blessed Arjuna with success before the Mahabharata War. Legend also says a stone was found here that had taken the form of a Shiva Linga, and that Linga is still the main object of worship.

The temple sits on the banks of the Rangit river, in the town of Legship. Many devotees believe that a visit made with true devotion fulfils wishes, especially a wish for a son or daughter, and also wishes for peace and good health. Shrines dedicated to Rama and Durga stand on the same site.

Legship is a small town in Gyalshing district, on the main road that links Gyalshing with the rest of Sikkim. Gyalshing is the capital of West Sikkim district. The temple is counted among the major Hindu pilgrimage centres in the state.

Festivals

• November to DecemberBala Chaturdashi

  The festival is observed at the temple every year in these months.

• February or MarchMaha Shivaratri

  Also called Shiv Ratri, it is observed here every year.

Tips for your visit

• Shrines for Rama and Durga stand on the same site, so one visit covers more than the Linga.
• Rangit Water World, near Legship, has rafting available.

Questions people ask