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Kaleshwar Shiv Temple is the most ancient monument of Lansdowne. It is said that 5000 years ago, Kalun sage used to do penance here. Thus, its name is Kaleshwar from his name. The Garhwal regiment was raised on 5 May 1887, and the first battalion of the regiment arrived on 4 November 1887.  At that time, there was a deserted forest here. Here in a cave was a Shivling, which was known as Kaleshwar. It was the village deity of the nearby villages. According to popular belief, the cows of the villagers used to automatically pour milk from their udders on the Shivling. The vows that people used to ask with reverence and devotion were definitely fulfilled.

The first Garhwal, in 1901, built a small temple and a Dharamshala here. In 1926, the temple was renovated publicly. Worship of the temple was done by Sadhu–Mahatma, and other arrangements were made by the Garhwal Rifle Regimental Center.

The temple was reconstructed in 1995 by the Garhwal Rifle Regimental Centre, and In 1999, the mosaic courtyard was constructed outside the temple by the Regimental Center itself. The temple is worshiped and maintained by the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre.

Kaleshwar Shiv Temple (Lansdowne) is the oldest temple building in Lansdowne and is believed to be 500 years old. When the Garhwal Rifles arrived in Lansdowne on 4 November 1887, there was only an idol of Lord Shiva here. The temple now attracts a large number of common devotees and is deeply revered by the locals and villagers who visit here frequently, especially on the occasion of ‘Shivratri‘.

Two and a half km approx. from Gandhi Chowk, Lansdowne via Sadar Bazaar, ‘Dhura’ is the location of Bhim Pakora in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand.

The road is steep, surrounded by thick pine and oak trees, and I drive a Royal Enfield Thunderbird Twinspark motorbike to reach it.

It is said that during the Pandavas‘ exile into the forest, they reached this location. As we all know, Bhim was the most powerful among the Pandavas and was equal to ten thousand elephants, he placed the rock on top of another rock. Thus, it is named Bhim Pakora.

Some say Pandava had stopped and made food at this location.

Anyways, first I watch and then I walk to try whether it is moved by one’s finger or not, as said. Yes – the answer. Very true. The rock is well placed on top of another rock and must be in tons. Locals say it never topples, no matter what.

During Shivratri huge rush of devotees is present to offer prayers and offerings. Amazing, it is for sure no doubt.