Shri Baba Dhopeshwar Nath Ji Temple, also known as Dhopeshwarnath Mandir or Dhopeshwar Nath Mandir, is a historic and spiritually significant Shiva temple located in the cantonment area of Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Religious & Historical Significance of Dhopeshwarnath Mandir
❀ Dhopeshwarnath Mandir is believed to be the birthplace of Draupadi and Dhristadyumna, born by the blessings of Bhagwan Shiva, as narrated in the Mahabharata era.
❀ According to legend, Rishi Dhoom, a disciple of Rishi Arti, meditated here. Lord Shiva manifested as a Shivling to him, consecrating the site. Over time the name evolved from Dhoomeshwarnath to Dhopeshwarnath. The temple is considered a protective spiritual shield (“Raksha Kawach”) for the city of Bareilly.
❀ Temple built in North Indian style, the temple features a carved entrance arch (Mahadwara), intricate pillars, and a soaring Shikara. A sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) houses the Shiva lingam, along with other deities and elaborate carvings on walls and ceilings.
❀ Devotees enter via a short tunnel or goofa filled with knee‑deep water, wading through it to reach the inner sanctum—a distinctive ritual experience.
❀ The temple complex includes a large sacred pond (Dhopa Sarovar), believed to have medicinal properties, especially for curing skin ailments.
Dhopeshwarnath Mandir Darshan Timing
Dhopeshwarnath Mandir opens for the whole week and the darshan timing is from 7 AM to 9 PM.
Dhopeshwarnath Mandir Festivals & Rituals
Major festivals celebrated here include Mahashivaratri, Sawan Somvar, Janmashtami, and more. Thousands of devotees gather for jalabhishek (pouring water on the Shiva lingam) and take ritual baths in the sacred pond, believed to cleanse skin ailments. Sawan Somvar see very high footfall and special festivities, including early darshan openings and crowd control measures.
How to Reach Dhopeshwarnath Mandir
Dhopeshwarnath Mandir is located in the Cantonment area of Bareilly. Bareily has well-developed road connectivity with major nearby destinations in and out of the city. You can easily reach Shri Baba Dhopeshwar Nath ji Temple by local buses or taxi. Bareilly Junction railway station is just 4.2 km away from Shri Baba Dhopeshwar Nath ji Temple.
Tips for Visitors
❀ Wear modest traditional clothing to respect the temple’s sanctity.
❀ Carry a towel if planning to enter the tunnel or bathe in the pond.
❀ Visit on weekdays or early evening to avoid peak Savan crowds.
❀ Allocate 30–60 minutes for the temple visit, more if you want to explore the complex fully.
❀ Avoid wearing footwear inside; store them properly at the entrance.
Popular Name: Shri Baba Dhopeshwar Nath Ji Temple, Dhopeshwarnath Mandir, Dhopeshwar Nath Mandir