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Amruteshwar Temple in Maharashtra: Complete Info and Travel Guide!

The Amruteshwar Temple in Maharashtra is located amidst the picturesque village of Ratanwadi, near Bhandardara. This beautiful temple reflects the ancient architectural brilliance and spiritual craving as such. Dating back to the 11th century during the Shilahara dynasty, this Lord Shiva temple depicts its typical Hemadpanthi style. You take either a ferry ride over Arthur Lake or hike through Sahyadri ranges to visit; it has maintained a perfect blend of historical magnificence with natural beauty.

Contents: 

1. About Amruteshwar Temple
2. The History of Amruteshwar Temple
3. How to reach Amruteshwar Temple
4. Some suggestions before going to Amruteshwar Temple
5. Amazing Facts about Amruteshwar Temple
6. Overall Budget of the Travel
7. FAQs

About Amruteshwar Temple

The Amruteshwar Temple is a further marvel of Dadwadi in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which characterizes 11th-century Hemadpanthi architecture. This is Lord Shiva's temple and is believed to have been constructed during the Shilahara dynasty way back in 900 A.D. Intricate stone carvings get reflected on every wall of this temple with engravings, quite unique and built with black stone and basalt. Inside the Sanctum Sanctorum, this temple of the Amba-Ambika complex is known for its symmetrical design; a big Shivalinga in it represents Shiva's divine presence.

Elaborate carvings on the exterior of the temple depict scenes from Hindu mythology and are excellent examples of work done in that period. The mandapa is supported by complicatedly carved pillars in an accommodation of many stories through their intricate designs. The destination is serene, with green surroundings and an attractive spot for both pilgrims and tourists, with the overall ambience.

Located near the picturesque Bhandardara Dam, a beauty of nature and resting place, coupled with spiritual heritage is what Amruteshwar Temple represents. One can reach the temple either by an attractive trek or by boat ride, all adding to the adventure and charm to visit this historic wonder. With spiritual essence combined with its mesmerizing architecture, the Amruteshwar Temple had to be involved in the bucket list of places to visit in Maharashtra.

The History of Amruteshwar Temple

The Amruteshwar Temple is located in the serene village of Ratanwadi, near Bhandardara in Maharashtra. It dates back to the 9th century. This ancient temple with Lord Shiva is predicted to be built during 900 A.D. by the Shilahar dynasty ruling that time in  Maharashtra for the period  from the 8th to 12th centuries. The Shilahara chiefs were liberal donors to art and architecture; there could hardly have been any better example for the same skill in architecture than the Amruteshwar Temple.

This temple is one of the best examples of Hemadpanthi style, named after Hemadri—a minister in the court of the Yadava dynasty—who introduced an emphasis on black stone and basalt with no use of mortar between the stones. That abode within this unusual style of construction not only brings durability to the temple itself but once through this way also exquisite carvings and fine detailings that tell their tale across many centuries.

Thus, the history of the temple is inseparably linked to that of cultural and spiritual background in this region. It did not work as a mere center of worship. Rather, it had social and cultural activities centering on it at that time in ancient history. The outer walls have profuse ornamentation with sculptures of gods and goddesses and mythological scenes—showcasings of finesse of the art during that time. A big Shivalinga in the sanctum has been the center of worships for centuries.

It slowly captured the interest of many a devout, historians, and tourists who mainly visited this place because of its serenity and historic backdrop. Even located as remotely as it stands today, the Amruteshwar Temple has stood as a gesture to rich heritage and religious devotion that distinguished the Shilahara era and occupies an important landmark in the historical landscape of Maharashtra.

Also Read: Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram: History, Facts and Travel Guide!

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How to reach Amruteshwar Temple

• By Air
• Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM)
• Distance: About 180 km (112 miles) from Ratanwadi
• From the Mumbai airport, one can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Ratanwadi.
• By Train
• Nearest Railway Station: Igatpuri Railway Station
• Distance: Around 42 km (26 miles) from Ratanwadi
• How to Reach:
• From Mumbai or Nashik: Start with a journey by train to Igatpuri, which has good connectivity from both cities through regular trains.
• From Igatpuri, one can take a taxi or bus to Shendi or Bhandardara and then reach Ratanwadi using local transport or by boat.
• By Road
• State Transport Buses: MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) operates enough number of buses from Mumbai and Nashik to Bhandardara or Shendi.
• Private Buses: Many private operators ply their buses from Mumbai and other nearby places to Bhandardara.
• From Bhandardara, one can easily hire a local vehicle or boat to reach Ratanwadi.
• From Mumbai: Take NH 160 towards Nashik and then follow SH 44 to Bhandardara. From Bhandardara, take the road or boats to Ratanwadi.

Some suggestions before going to Amruteshwar Temple

• Check the weather and dress appropriately according to the demand of the monsoon or winter months if you are traveling in those periods.
• Hydration: The quantities of water and hydration must be enough, more so if one intends to trek or take a boat ride to the temple.
• Snacks: The body will require light snacks or energy bars for sustenance since food options near the temple may be few.
• Camera—In case it is permitted to take photographs, then one should carry a camera or at least a cell phone to click pictures of the temple's architecture and its surroundings as a whole. However respect any restriction on photography inside the temple.
• Entrance Fees and Donations: Where no entrance fee is levied, you can contribute a little amount as a donation towards its maintenance and management.

Amazing Facts about Amruteshwar Temple

• It was built in the 11th century and is the typical Hemadpanthi style characterized by intensive carvings and the use of black stone without mortar.
• The temple having a large Shivalinga has attracted devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace from its sanctum sanctorum.
• List-item Located in a secluded location amidst the Sahyadri ranges, accessible only by a boat ride across the picturesque Arthur Lake, offering charm and tranquility to this holy place.
• Historical Legacy: Constructed by the Shilahara dynasty, vividly manifesting their cultural and architectural excellence in medieval Maharashtra, the temple eloquently represents this fact.
• Natural Surroundings: Lush green surroundings, with a private view of the Western Ghats, enhance its spiritual appeal as a retreat.
• Artistic Marvel: The wall on the exterior of the temple is intricately sculpted, showing scenes of mythological deities, reflecting the ancient artists' exquisite skill in the art of decoration.
• Pilgrimage Site: Though located deep inside, it is one of the popular pilgrimage spots among locals and tourists alike to experience the confluence of spirit and nature.
• Boat Access: From Bhandardara, one gains access to the temple by a boat ride on Arthur Lake, with an entirely pictorial approach to the holy site.
• It testifies evidence to a rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra and the undying devotion toward Lord Shiva that the people have in this region.

Overall Budget of the Travel

The total cost of visiting Ekambareswarar Mahadev Temple will not shock you, as you just need travel tickets and some cash for food and hotel rooms. The overall budget you can expect is a maximum of 8,000–15,000 per person, depending on your flight or train tickets and in which season you are booking hotels, as during the festival season hotel prices reach their peak value. It is advised to visit Ekambareswarar Mahadev Temple on weekdays to make your trip cheap and comfortable.

Also Read: Madhmaheshwar Temple: Complete Info, Facts and Travel Guide!

Conclusion

We have mentioned every piece of information you need about Ekambareswarar Mahadev Temple and Jyotirlingas. The trip to Ekambareswarar Mahadev Temple is a dream of every person living in India and Lord Shiva devotees, as this trip includes temples, hills, beautiful views, greenery, comfort, and a unique experience. If you follow our suggestions, then your Ekambareswarar Temple trip will be more amazing.

FAQs

Which is the famous temple in Maharashtra?

The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi is one of the most famous temples in Maharashtra, revered by millions for its association with the saint Sai Baba and his teachings of love and compassion.

How to reach Amruteshwar Temple?

To reach the Amruteshwar Temple in Ratanwadi, Maharashtra, first travel to Bhandardara by road from Mumbai or Nashik. From Bhandardara, take a local boat across Arthur Lake to Ratanwadi. Alternatively, you can trek through the scenic hills from Bhandardara to reach the temple.