About Kapilash & Chandrashekhar Temple
Kapilash, located in Dhenkanal district of Odisha, is a revered hilltop temple town known for the sacred Chandrashekhar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Perched at a height of 2239 feet above sea level, Kapilash is often called the "Kailash of Odisha" due to its spiritual importance and natural beauty. Surrounded by dense forests, clear skies, and misty hills, this destination is a favorite among pilgrims, trekkers, and riders alike.
The Kapilash Temple is believed to have been constructed in the 13th century by King Narasingh Deva I of the Ganga dynasty. The temple enshrines Lord Shiva in his form as Chandrashekhar and draws thousands of devotees throughout the year, especially during Maha Shivaratri. The journey to the temple is a mix of devotion and endurance, as visitors can either climb 1352 steps or take the ghat road that winds beautifully up the hill.
The temple is surrounded by legends. It is said that sages once meditated here, and Lord Shiva appeared to them in divine form. The name "Kapilash" comes from the sage Kapila who is believed to have performed intense penance in this region. The entire area exudes a divine stillness, where the rustling leaves and temple bells blend into meditative silence.
Nearby attractions include the Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary, the Deer Park near the foothills, and the Temple of Narayan inside the Kapilash complex. There’s also a rustic Ashram and several viewpoints along the steps where one can rest and soak in panoramic views of Dhenkanal’s green expanse. The peaceful environment and spiritual power of the place make it a perfect day-ride destination for bikers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
From the echoing chants of “Har Har Mahadev” to the cool breeze that greets you at the top, Kapilash offers more than a pilgrimage — it’s a complete sensory experience. It connects riders to the divine and to nature at the same time. For those who love the hills, temples, and winding roads, Kapilash is an essential stop in Odisha’s spiritual trail.
Ride Start
We set out from Bhubaneswar early in the morning, the skies just starting to turn golden. The road to Dhenkanal was clear and peaceful, with fresh air and empty highways giving us a perfect start. Riding through open fields, occasional forests, and roadside villages, the journey itself was refreshing. As we approached the base of the hill, we could already see the steps and the temple’s flag fluttering high above the clouds.
Climbing the Sacred Steps
Once we reached the foothills, we parked the bikes and took on the challenge of climbing the 1352 steps to the temple. The stone steps wound through ancient trees, with prayer flags, monkeys, and resting devotees along the way. Every few hundred steps, we paused, not just to catch our breath, but to admire the view and feel the climb's spiritual rhythm. The air got cooler as we rose higher, and the chant of Lord Shiva’s name grew louder.
Temple Darshan & Serenity
At the top, the temple stood quietly in its age-old glory. The stone structure, small shrines around it, and the serene surroundings made us instantly forget the tiredness of the climb. We offered prayers to Lord Chandrashekhar, took part in the aarti, and sat near the temple courtyard for a while, letting the wind and the mountain energy refresh our souls. Some of us also explored the nearby Narayan Temple and the simple Ashram close to the forest edge.
Forest Ride & Wildlife Views
While descending, we chose to take the ghat road on our bikes. The curved mountain road was smooth and filled with scenic turns and tree tunnels. We stopped at the Deer Park near the base, where we saw spotted deer and peacocks wandering peacefully. The forest trail back down gave us not just great riding moments but a peaceful escape into Odisha’s untouched wilderness.
Return Ride & Reflections
The return ride was filled with conversation, reflection, and contentment. We took a short tea stop near Dhenkanal town and shared our individual experiences of the climb. The peacefulness of the temple, the challenge of the steps, and the blessings of Lord Shiva made it more than just a destination — it became a memory we’ll always carry. The ride home was slow and grateful, knowing we had witnessed something timeless.
Conclusion & Spiritual Bond
Kapilash was not just a hill climb — it was a rise in spirit. For the Biking Brothers Odisha team, this ride added a new layer to our journey: one of faith, strength, and sacred silence. Lord Chandrashekhar’s presence, the climb through nature, and the bonding moments between riders made this trip unforgettable. Until the next temple calls us — Har Har Mahadev!