Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave, also known as Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple, is a Hindu cave temple located in the village of Gupteshwar, about 5km east of Pokhara, Nepal. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be more than 2000 years old.
The cave is a natural limestone cave that has been revered as a sacred site for centuries. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself meditated in this cave, and that it contains a natural lingam, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva. It is also believed that the water flowing from the cave has healing properties.
The cave is narrow and dark, and visitors need to crawl to reach the innermost chamber, where the lingam is located. The cave is also home to many bats and other cave dwellers, so visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
The temple complex also includes a number of shrines and statues, including a statue of Lord Shiva and his consort, Parvati. The temple is also home to a number of holy men and sadhus, who are believed to have attained spiritual powers through their meditations in the cave.
The Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly during the festivals of Shivaratri and Teej. It is also a popular spot for visitors interested in the culture and spirituality of Nepal.
It’s important to note that the cave is quite narrow and dark and can be slippery, so visitors should be prepared for the conditions and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. It’s also important to respect the religious and cultural significance of the cave and behave appropriately while inside the cave and around the temple complex.