Temples in Pune are an important part of the rich culture of the city. Omkareshwar temple is one of the biggest temples in Pune. This hallowed shrine of Lord Shiva stands as a symbol of endurance as it had survived the havoc created by the 1962 Panshet floods. Known for its extravagant style of construction and huge domes, the temple becomes one of the main attractions in Pune.

The structure of the temple takes us back to the Peshwa regime as it was constructed during the reign of Sadashiv Bhau, the Peshwa. A 250 year old construction on the banks of the river Mutha still proclaims the glory of the fallen Peshwa Empire. It can be seen as a perfect piece of art and architecture prevailing in the 17th century.

Beautiful carvings on the upper parts of the white dome are a sheer beauty. The stone roof of the temple too is embellished with carvings from Hindu mythology. Spacious verandas with columns enhance the grandeur of the shrine.

As you enter in you are greeted by a different world. The beautiful Shiva Linga catches the eye of all. The priests over here decorate the Shiva Linga artistically. Omkareshwar has been showering His grace on the devotees for centuries together. Moreover the big Nandi built in stone right in front of the Shiva temple is a good piece of work.

In addition to the Shiva temple, you have six other temples in the premises. These include Lord Shani, Lord Hanuman, Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesh and Goddess Durga.

Hundreds of votaries come here every day with their prayers and wishes. The temple is crowded especially on Mondays and in the month of Shravan. The huge space of the temple is utilized for a few noteworthy cultural activities like musical concerts, bhajans and sermons.

The entrances of the temple are open from 5.30am to 11 pm. The shrine however is closed in the afternoon between 2.00pm to 4.00 pm.

Once you reach the famous Bal Gandharv Rang Mandir on the JM Road, Omkareshwar is just a 5 minute walk.

So do come and get drenched in the grace of Lord Shiva.

Location:
Omkareshwar Temple
Shaniwar Peth, Pune

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Omkareshwar Temple on Pune Map
Omkareshwar Temple in Pune

You won’t believe a place like this could be located on the downtown Jangli Maharaj Road (JM Road) in Pune. Yes I am talking about the famous Pataleshwar Cave Temple! It is also called the Panchaleshwar or the Bamburde Temple.

The Name Pataleshwar

Pataleshwar is one of the names of Lord Shiva. The word Pataleshwar literally means God of the Underworld. Entirely carved out in the hard rock, Pataleshwar really looks like a different world altogether. In the vicinity of this Shiva Temple you find a cave and hence it is known as the Pataleshwar Cave Temple.

Right in the Heart of City:

This beautiful piece of work was carved out in the Rashtrakuta period in the eighth century AD. The temple now quite in the heart of the city was originally situated in the outskirts of the town.  By and by with the increasing urbanization the frontiers of the city expanded and thus today we have the Pataleshwar temple on the city center JM Road.

The Temple:

The temple carved out of basalt rock is the holy shrine of Lord Shiva. The sanctum is a cube shaped room which is indeed a sturdy construction. The beautiful Shiva Linga inside has been the source of moral and spiritual support for thousands of devotees for centuries together. On each side of the sanctum there are two smaller cells.

A circular Nandimandapa with its umbrella shaped canopy is another beautiful construction. The massive square pillars of the Mandapa catch the attention of the lovers of art.

The temple is modeled on the Elephanta rock temple. The construction however remained incomplete as a rift was detected at the back of the sanctum.

The daily pooja of the Shiva Linga is a treat to watch. The priests anoint the linga with ghee and yogurt. The fragrance of the incense sticks and the pleasant sight of the beautifully decorated Shiva Linga make you forget your daily din of life.

A big temple bell made of brass hangs outside the entryway and adds to the grandeur of the temple.

Timings:

The temple is open from 08.30 am to 5.30 pm every day.

How to get there:

As mentioned in the beginning, the temple lies on the JM Road and getting there is not at all difficult. Hiring an auto rickshaw is the best option. From Deccan, reaching Pataleshwar will be a 15 minute journey by bus.

So whenever you come to Pune, don’t miss a trip to the temple of Pataleshwar. May Lord Shiva bless you all!
If you have visited Pataleshwar Cave Temple in Pune, please tell us more about this ancient temple through comment.

Pataleshwar Caves on Pune Map
Pataleshwar Caves in Pune