Pataleshwar Cave
Pataleshwar Cave – A Single Rock Wonder
There are caves that are feared to be entered but not all of them are scary or dangerous! Some of them resemble a sweet fantasy and have the light within. Pataleshwar Cave Temple in Pune has a treasure within that’s not lucky enough to find. Right in the heart of the city, this protected heritage site is carved out of a single rock. This is a magnificent monolithic creation of its time.
Pataleshwar Temple is of religious relevance to Hindus and is thronged with devotees. The carvings and miniatures drawn on the walls of this centuries-old temple are a treat to the eyes. To connect with the almighty from all corners and to have a peaceful time this temple is the actual place to leave tourists spellbound during their vacation in Pune.
History & facts about Pataleshwar Cave Temple
The Pataleshwar Caves in Pune are dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar – one of the 1008 names dedicated to Lord Shiva. ‘Patal’ stands for ‘underworld’, and ‘Ishwar’ stands for ‘Lord’ or ‘God Himself’. Inside the caves, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nandi (anchor of Shiva), which was made from a monolithic rock excavated during the reign of ‘The Rashtrakuta Dynasty in the 8th century AD. Passages, circular Nandi Mandapa, and massive pillars are the breathtaking parts of the conserved region. The other names of Pataleshwar Temple are Panchaleshwar Temple and Bhamburde Temple. According to the legends, the temple was built in just a few hours by the Pandavas for them when they were out in exile and needed one urgently. The seating arrangements for guests of Pataleshwar Caves are designed to perfection inside the small temple rooms. This arrangement made out of rock will leave everyone awestruck and make them marvel at the true grandeur that the temple.
What makes Pataleshwar Cave Temple special?
The finely crafted pillars, giant circular stones, and rotunda roof make this temple a true beauty. Nandi Mandapa, another specimen of fine craftsmanship, is situated or placed just beneath the roof. The sound of the bells is also a unique feature.
The architecture of Pataleshwar temple and Elephanta Caves share a sheer resemblance to each other if observed closely.
The fine carvings on the black temple rocks already act as specimens of great attraction. But other than that there is a tiny little grain of rice that adds to the flavor. The grain, which is kept in the museum inside the caves, has 5000 letters inscribed on it and has been mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records. Besides these, the idols of other Hindu gods as Ram, Lakshman, Sita, Ganesh, and Lakshmi inside the temple complex add to the beauty of this single rock-cut wonder.
10 Places to visit near Pataleswar Cave
Pataleshwar Cave Temple:
This ancient rock-cut temple is located in Pune and is dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple was carved out of solid rock in the 8th century and showcases the architectural styles of the Satavahana dynasty. The cave temple is a popular tourist spot and attracts a large number of visitors for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
Shaniwar Wada:
This historic fort is located in the heart of Pune and was once the residence of the Maratha Empire. It was built in 1730 and was known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The fort was damaged in a fire and only the ruins remain today. It is a popular tourist spot and attracts a large number of visitors who come to admire its grand architecture and learn about the history of the Maratha Empire.
Aga Khan Palace:
This magnificent palace is located in Pune and was built by Sultan Mohammed Shah Aga Khan III in the 19th century. It was used as a prison during India’s independence movement and is now a museum that showcases the history of India’s struggle for freedom. The palace is also the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife, Kasturba Gandhi.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum:
This museum is located in Pune and is dedicated to the life and work of Raja Dinkar Kelkar, a renowned Maratha collector. The museum showcases his collection of over 20,000 artifacts that include sculptures, paintings, and musical instruments. It is a popular tourist spot and attracts a large number of visitors who come to admire the impressive collection of art and artifacts.
Sinhagad Fort:
This historic fort is located on a hill near Pune and was once a military stronghold during the Maratha Empire. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside and its rich history. The fort attracts a large number of tourists who come to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.
National Defence Academy:
This prestigious military academy is located in Pune and is one of the most sought-after training institutions in India. It is the first tri-service academy in the world and trains cadets from the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. The academy is known for its rigorous training regime and its reputation for producing some of India’s finest military officers.
Bhor Ghat:
This picturesque mountain pass is located between Pune and Mumbai and is known for its stunning views and challenging terrain. It is a popular tourist spot and attracts a large number of visitors who come to admire the scenic beauty of the area and take part in outdoor activities such as trekking and rock climbing.
Rajmachi Fort:
This historic fort is located near Pune and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside and its rich history. The fort was once a military stronghold and was used by the Maratha Empire to protect its territory from invaders. It is a popular tourist spot and attracts a large number of visitors who come to admire the impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.
Katraj Snake Park:
This popular park is located in Pune and is home to a wide variety of snakes and reptiles. The park is dedicated to educating visitors about the importance of snake conservation and is a popular tourist spot for those interested in wildlife and conservation. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife species and attracts a large number of visitors who come to admire the beauty of nature.
Mulshi Dam:
This beautiful dam is located near Pune and is known for its stunning views and serene atmosphere. The dam is a popular spot for picnicking, boating, and fishing, and attracts a large number of visitors who come to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The dam is also surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
How to reach
Pataleshwar Cave Temple and the places around it in Pune can be reached in the following ways:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Pune is the Pune International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, one can take a taxi or a private car to reach the temple and other places in Pune.
- By Rail: Pune is well-connected to major cities in India by rail and is served by the Pune Railway Station. From the station, one can take a taxi or a private car to reach the temple and other places in Pune.
- By Road: Pune is well-connected to major cities in India by road and is served by a network of state highways and national highways. One can take a private car, a taxi or a local bus to reach the temple and other places in Pune.
Overall, Pune is easily accessible by all modes of transportation and is a convenient destination for visitors looking to explore the cultural and historical heritage of the city.
