According to mythology, there was a demon named Tadakasur, who performed penance for Shiva to obtain the boon of immortality, to which, being pleased, Shiva appeared before him and granted him the boon of death only at the hands of Shiva's son. The demon Tarakasur knew that after the death of Sati, Shiva had become a complete recluse and had no thoughts of ever returning to married life.
As soon as the boon took effect, and enthused by his immortality, Tadakasur went on a destructive path to harm nature and all the people of this mountain. Then the gods appealed to Shiva to save the people. Meanwhile, Parvati had conquered Shiva by her penance and they were married. Kartikeya was born from them.
Tadakasur had come to know by then that his death was near. Repenting, he went to Shiva and asked for forgiveness. Shiva molded him that he was by no means going to live long as he was to die at the hands of Kartikeya. But Shiva assures Tadakasur that he is a true devotee who will be remembered forever. His name will be associated with the Lord and hence Lord Shiva is also known as Tadkasur Mahadev.

According to folklore, after challenging Tadkasur, Shiva and Parvati came to Tadakeshwar, while resting, Shiva was getting the harsh and bright rays of the sun, Parvati manifested herself in the form of seven deodar trees to provide shade to Shiva. These seven trees are located in the temple premises. All other deodar trees have originated from these seven trees. The whole area is now called Tadkeshwar.

Service and worship

Bells are lit at Tarakeswar Mahadev Temple. Devotees whose prayers are answered come to the temple to offer bells. When a large number of bells are gathered in the temple, they are hung outside the temple path.

Celebration
Maha Shivratri is celebrated during the first week of March, and devotees offer milk, sandalwood paste and incense sticks to the Shivling.
Fasal Puja May: The first crop is offered to Tadkeshwar Mahadev before being sold in the market.
Other grand festivals celebrated are Diwali, Annakoot, Narasimha Leela.

Best time to visit: March to October

Interesting fact:
Tarakeswar Mahadev Temple is one of the Siddha Peeths of 84 villages. The bells around the temple area are offered by the devotees on the fulfillment of their wishes.

Nearby Places: Situated at a high altitude, Lansdowne is one of the best places to spend a quiet and serene holiday in Uttarakhand